The Narrow Way

Imagine two pieces of land separated by a wide, rushing river. The people on either side struggle to communicate or come together because the river is an obstacle. However, when a bridge is built connecting both sides, it allows people to cross over and peacefully meet in the middle, fostering unity and understanding.

In the same way, Romans 12:18 encourages us to be like the bridge, doing everything in our power to live at peace with others. While we can’t control the actions of others, we can extend a bridge of understanding and goodwill, creating opportunities for reconciliation and peace.

Breaking Down the Analogy

1. The River Represents Conflict and Division
   The river symbolizes the conflict, misunderstandings, or hurt that often separates people. Just as the river creates distance between two pieces of land, disagreements and differences can create emotional or relational distance between individuals.
2. The Two Sides Represent People in Conflict
   The two pieces of land on either side of the river represent people who are in conflict or disagreement. Without a way to connect, they remain distant from one another, unable to reach peace.
3. The Bridge Represents Our Efforts for Peace
   The bridge in this analogy is our effort to live at peace with others, as Paul urges in Romans 12:18. We cannot force peace, but we can build pathways of communication, forgiveness, and kindness that allow peace to become possible.
4. Crossing the Bridge Represents Mutual Effort
   Just as the bridge allows people to cross over the river and meet, our actions—such as seeking reconciliation, showing kindness, and offering forgiveness—create opportunities for others to respond in peace. Though we can’t control their actions, we create the possibility of peaceful relationships.

Lesson from the Analogy

Romans 12:18 teaches us that we are called to do our part to live at peace with others. Just as a bridge spans a river and connects two sides, we are encouraged to build bridges of peace wherever possible. While we cannot control how others respond or behave, we can control our own efforts toward peace, making it easier for reconciliation and harmony to occur. This verse reminds us that peace begins with us, and as much as it depends on our actions, we should seek to live in peace with everyone.