Reflection: Bridge collapse in Genoa, Italy

Recently, there was a horrific bridge collapse in Italy. Many lives were lost, crushed under the weight of the bridge. Lost lives can never be replaced. May their souls rest in eternal peace.

When a tragedy occurs, we can help with our prayers. Pray for the souls who perished, for their loved ones and for the first responders and medical personnel who care for them.

There will be an investigation to determine the cause. Then the accident scene will be cleaned up. This will be tedious, messy, expensive, but eventually the bridge will be restored.

As I thought about this tragedy, it made me think about our relationship with God. When we experience a trauma, we are like the collapsed bridge. It takes time for our body, mind and spirit to be healed and restored.

Your people shall rebuild the ancient ruins; the foundations from ages past You shall raise up; "Repairer of the breach, they shall call You; Restorer of ruined dwellings." Isaiah 58:12

What causes a break in our relationship with God? Sin causes a breach from God. A breach is a break from our relationship with God, a separation from the good. Other synonyms for breach are a gap, rupture, opening, split, alienation, estrangement or a broken state.

How does a breach with God occur? A breach is created by sin, our own sin or the sin of others. When we turn away from God, a breach occurs. When we are hurt or harmed by others, God wants to heal us. We are all sinners and God loves us so much. God gave us the Ten Commandments. These are commands, not options. Turn to Him and He will restore the breach.

How does God restore our souls? He gave us the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It is where Truth and Mercy meet. In confession, you are speaking to Jesus Himself. Jesus told Saint Faustina to bring her miseries to this Throne of Grace.

How does God restore your soul in confession? Jesus pours His grace, light and love upon you when you confess your sins and make an amendment to sin no more. It is Divine Mercy for your soul. Jesus will give the priest words of healing for your soul. Bring your miseries and sufferings to confession. If you have not been to confession for a while, go and tell the priest. If you do not know what to say, he will help you. Ask Our Lady to help you. She will come with you. She is your Mother of Mercy and she always brings us lovingly to Jesus.

After you have made your confession, the priest will extend his hand and give you Absolution. He will tell you to go in peace and sin no more. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is for the forgiveness of sins but it is so much more. You receive healing and grace which gives you strength to follow the Lord and walk in His ways. As with the collapsed bridge, the breach will be repaired and the bridge rebuilt and restored. Through the sacrament, your relationship with God is repaired and Jesus restores your soul. God desires to pour out His grace and mercy upon you. Make a promise to go to confession often. Jesus is waiting for you. He will restore your soul...

The Lord is my Shepherd, there is nothing I shall want. In green pastures, He makes me lie down; to still waters, He leads me; He restores my soul. He guides me along right paths for the sake of His Name. Psalm 23:1-3