Bearers of Hope

Several years ago, there was an article in the Chicago Tribune by a writer named Jim Yardley about a great bridge that spans the Yangtze River in China. Thousands of pedestrians cross this bridge every day. Unfortunately, some have used the Yangtze River Bridge to end their lives. In fact, at the time of the article over 1,000 people had jumped from this bridge since it opened in 1968.

In 2003, a man in his mid-30s named Chen decided this had to end. Since then he spent many weekends coming to the bridge to try to stop people from jumping. He said, “It is very easy to recognize potential jumpers. [Such a person] walks without spirit.”

I really admire this man named Chen. It takes courage to reach out to people who are in need. It takes energy and time. And you never know how someone will respond. But you also never know how you might change someone’s life.

I wonder if you know anyone who is walking without spirit. You can often see it in a person’s eyes and their face.

The truth is that you and I may not be able to help them. Sometimes people are not ready for help. Most often they need professional counseling. However, you never know how far a kind word, a prayer, or a little encouragement will go.

Let us pray: We thank you, O God, for people like Chen who are bearers of hope. May we follow his lead.  Today we lift to you all of those who feel as though they are walking without spirit. We pray for them that you would fill them with your Spirit. Bring the right people, the right help into their lives. May they know your love, mercy, and grace through Jesus Christ. Amen.