CROSSING THE NARROW BRIDGE

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.

                                                Proverbs 16:9

In certain Jewish traditions there is a philosophy called, “the narrow bridge of life.” They view their walk through life as a journey on a narrow bridge that is being tossed about by the whirlwind of everything that happens to us. Each step across the shaky bridge amounts to a series of careful decisions. When you look at life this way, you have to be sure about every step you take. It’s the only way to make it safely to the other side.

Just over 70 years ago, a man by the name of Janusz Korczak lived in Poland. Though he made some missteps early in his life, his heart was changed and he became a doctor, writer and founder of two orphanages. But, everything began to change when the Germans occupied Warsaw. Jewish people were being forced to relocate – and no one knew where they were going, not even the children of the orphanage were safe.

Since he was a respected and important man, Korczak was offered protection and escape from the tightening grip of the Nazis. But that would mean leaving the children of his orphanage. His next step in life was made. As he wrote in his journal, “You do not leave a sick child in the night, and you do not leave children at a time like this . . . The lives of great men are like legends–difficult, but beautiful.”

On August 6, 1942, Korczak and the children living in the orphanage with him heard the dreaded call from the German guards in the street below, “Alle Juden raus!” (All Jews out!”). The children were terrified. Calmly, Janusz walked outside to bargain for more time so the children to pack their belongings.

Then, holding one child in his arms and another by the hand, he led 192 children and ten adults across a bridge to the trains that carried them to Treblinka’s death camp. He didn’t have to go across that bridge. He could have saved himself.

People lined the streets crying as they watched this brave man lead his children through Warsaw with their heads held high. Not one child crying. History would later call this moment, The Last March.

Like this great man who gave comfort and courage to children during their darkest hour, we will all someday walk across that narrow bridge in life. For you, that may be today, or even right now.

Yes, every step you take in life must be a careful one. Because no one crosses that narrow bridge alone. We are all holding someone’s hand. Every decision we make affects other people. The steps you take today can change lives. That is why it is so important to understand God’s Word; to make decisions based on the will of our Lord Jesus. Right now, as you decide what that next step in life should be, ask yourself this one little question, “Is Jesus’ footprint already there?”

This Week’s Prayer

Lord Jesus, guide me in my walk today. I know every step is important. That is why I ask you to place my feet in the right spot every time. Help me cross the narrow bridge to Your Kingdom today and every day. Amen.