Crossing Bridges

Crossing bridges impact us in amazing ways, whether the bridges span languages, landmarks, or lives.

First Mission Trip

I learned this truth in a new way on my first mission trip. The life changes and memories have lasted me a lifetime. A Hispanic ministry in Buffalo and Dunkirk, New York, with a team of four adults and three teenage girls introduced me to this incomparable joy.

Our pastor and his wife had led another group to the same area a few years earlier. That experience heightened our anticipation and boosted our credibility in the community.

We stayed with and served under the guidance of a career missionary couple. The three youths and I knew a smattering of Spanish, so together we managed when we had no interpreter. However, we relied primarily on the local Hispanic pastor and a summer missionary to aid us in crossing bridges of communication.

Crossing Bridges in the Park

Each morning found us in a small Buffalo park. Afternoons we moved to Dunkirk, where our group split after the first day in order to serve two locations. We played fun music to draw interest while the summer missionary knocked on doors. That’s all it took for the children to come running.

One young fellow about twelve years old, Jacob, became our unofficial morning helper. He loved nothing more than assisting with contacts, setting up in the park, and any other identified needs. I think of him often and wonder about his life as an adult.

Our daily schedule included the basics of any backyard Bible school: songs, crafts, Bible stories, and games. We used puppets, drama, and group interaction to deliver the story. Our props were simple. A crown of thorns — the real thing — received the most attention. Because children are children, and curiosity reigns, we had to caution them to “look but don’t touch.”

I used the thorns during my role as a contemporary of Jesus. We wanted the children to learn how Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection bridged the gap between them and God. The emotion of the drama, combined with sorrow in leaving the children that final day, threatened to drown us with tears as we boarded the van.

Crossing Bridges at Evening Services

At night we helped with outdoor revival services. The girls and I loved trying to translate introductory Spanish comments, especially the funny ones about us. A few harmless jokes at our expense broke the ice for everyone. Our pastor preached, and his wife played the keyboard. A teenage girl from the morning Bible school accepted Jesus as her Savior during one evening service. With that decision, all the fatigue from a week of maximum activity and minimum sleep melted away.

Our pastor also preached for the Hispanic mission’s Sunday afternoon worship service.

We enjoyed a wonderful Cuban dinner before the service one evening. The local pastor’s mother welcomed us as family, and we gained a new appreciation for the strength of Cuban coffee. Now we know why they use those tiny cups. A little goes a long way!

Final Day of Crossing Bridges

After a full week, the summer missionary joined us for a one-day trip to Niagara Falls before our final goodbyes. Our senses exploded with the sight, sound, and feel of water thundering over and onto rock. The power of the American, Bridal Veil, and Horseshoe Falls absolutely took our breath away. We stood mesmerized as we watched the Niagara River roll over the falls just a few feet from us. We saw as much as one day allows — enough to whet our desire for future visits.

One Attraction, Two Countries

Parks in both the United States and Canada grant amazing views of the Niagara River and are visited by people from every part of the world. They also display a combination of natural and developed landscaping and an abundance of wildlife. A nearby butterfly conservatory, botanical gardens, and whirlpool also add to the area’s appeal.

To enjoy the full impact of the water’s rush, make a beeline for the top deck on one of the local boat rides. The pounding of the water and surging of the boat make conversation all but impossible. Yet who wants to talk at a time like that? Rather, soak in the power and majesty of God’s amazing creation in a new and breathtaking way.

Crossing the Rainbow Bridge

Connecting the two cities of Niagara Falls, the Rainbow Bridge can be crossed by foot, bicycle, or automobile, allowing a bird’s eye view of the falls. Both sides of the bridge supply a smorgasbord of additional attractions.

Crossing the Eternal Bridge

Early mornings frequently find the Rainbow Bridge shrouded by a heavy mist that feels like rain. In much the same way, our efforts at bridging relationships can become bogged down by human imperfections and preconceived notions. However, when we travel the bridge Jesus supplied through the cross and invite others, regardless of their background, to journey with us, we discover freedom from sin and genuine, lasting peace, worth more than any rainbow’s pot of gold.

Dare to cross bridges to introduce others to Jesus.

“Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life (John 5:24 NIV).”