God rescues – 17 February 2023

The Richland County Sheriff’s Department in America recently posted a short video on social media of a young man sitting on a bridge to end his life, being saved. The empathy with which the policeman in the video conducts the conversation with the young man struck me. At one stage, they called the young man’s parents, who then rushed to the scene.

The video made me think of people around us who might find themselves on that “invisible bridge” – a colleague, neighbour, spouse or even a child. Even though they are not standing on a physical bridge, in their minds, they are losing hope and enthusiasm to live. Maybe you are standing on that “bridge” today. The enemy is doing his best to get us there – or keep us there.

However, God is like the parents of the young man who rushed to the bridge and embraced their child. God wants to protect us and enable us to look at life with new eyes. In Matthew 11:28-29 we read: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. … I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Also in Psalm 23:4 we read: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me … ” And in Psalm 34:18 we are reminded: “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in Spirit.” (NIV)

May we be like the policeman to the people who are suffering in our lives today. And if you are standing on the bridge, may you experience God’s arms wrapped around you. He comforts us and is closer to us that you think. God bless.

Prayer: Father God, help me to be aware of your presence in my life today. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen