Picture a bridge builder standing on the edge of a deep, jagged canyon that separates two long-estranged communities. The builder cannot force the people on the opposite side of the canyon to cross over, walk across, or even wave back. But the builder can clear the debris on their own side, lay down the heavy steel cables, and construct a sturdy, open bridge that reaches all the way to the far shore, making reconciliation possible. Making a list of all persons we have harmed and becoming willing to make amends to them all is the hard work of clearing the ground and building that bridge. We cannot control how other people will react to us, nor can we force them to forgive us. But God calls us to take responsibility for our side of the canyon. When we develop a genuine willingness to repair old wounds and pursue peace wherever possible, we open the door for God’s miraculous healing to cross over. | 
