Articles
Building Bridges And Making Pearls
Both the Empire State Building and the Golden Gate Bridge were built during the Great Depression. Great things can be built during great adversity. Also, sand irritates the oyster and the oyster responds by creating a pearl. Take the irritant and transform it into something beautiful. Isn’t that amazing?
Do we see that? In some of the most challenging times our nation has ever known, two of the greatest structures that endure were built. And then, who would have thought that a beautiful pearl could come from irritating an oyster?
James said it, didn’t he? It is through trials that we are perfected. Oh, we don’t like the irritation. We don’t like the deprivation but, it is in those times who we are is really seen. It has always been that way with people, especially God’s people. Think about all the great people of faith in the Bible who endured trials and are found faithful. It is in hard times we hunker down. We must not give up. Our personal lives are shaped and formed during hard times. Character is not developed in hard times, it is manifested.
As we go through the trial of COVID-19, instead of fretting and being anxious, which I understand, just think of all the good that will come. We are seeing humanity at her best. The generosity, the sacrifice of people to help those on the front lines, our first responders and medical personnel. Also, the meals being provided to school children has continued.
Further, the creativity of some businesses to change their mode of operation to produce supplies needed of medical personnel. Masks and PPE’s all are being supplied from jobs that do not normally work in the medical field. Just like bridges and buildings being built and pearls begin to be shaped, we are building in the times of great need. We don’t see this all the time. It is in the most challenging of circumstances that genius is manifested. It is then we see creativity come out. It was during an outbreak of polio that the vaccine for the disease, that crippled many, was discovered.
Our question is, how might the making of a bridge or building of a landmark be seen in our lives during hard and trying times? Will we allow this irritant to form and shape us into someone better? Will I be built into a person of strength and support for others? Will the real beauty of God be seen through me? Will my character be transformed through the irritation to be like Jesus? Will I bear fruit of the Spirit?
Just think of all the cars that have crossed the Golden Gate bridge, and all the people that walk across her. Think of the millions that have stood and enjoyed the beauty and strength of the Empire State Building. And how many husbands have made great deposits into the love bank because they bought their wife a set of pearls.
Here is the point: we can be the bridge people use to find their path to Christ. We can be the beauty of Jesus seen by all. And, we can be the gift that is invaluable like that valuable pearl. We do that now during depressing times.
Oh, by the way, that is happening among us. The creative ways that many are staying in touch is amazing. The willingness to help in any way needed is excellent. You good brethren are building bridges and making pearls. Keep at it!
Rickie Jenkins
