Structural Support

Matt Lauer of NBC’s Today show reports this morning that the
I-35 bridge collapse in Minneapolis was a structural failure. Several people are dead.
Families are weeping at the bedsides of critically injured spouses and children.
Others wait without hope for news of the missing.

A chief engineer, whose name is not yet public, signed off
on the most recent inspection report. He made a decision. His decision was
wrong. The consequences will haunt him to his own death. For the next few days,
many other experts will second-guess that choice.

Decisions have consequences. Not just for ourselves, but for
many. Unlike the engineer, most of us do not have immediate responsibility for
thousands of people. Our decisions do, however, affect our spouses, co-workers,
and children. Kindness leads to emotional connection. Complimenting a colleague’s
report builds confidence. In a conflict, speaking calmly with our husband
models peaceful resolution for our children. 

May our words build up rather than tear down. May our decisions today require no after-the-fact analysis.

Father-God, please give powerful words that will build strong
supports in other’s lives.