By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2026

First published in Faith on Every Corner (October 2026 Issue)

“I just felt within myself that God was going to spare his life. That belief became reality.” 
— Officer, Bishop and Senior Pastor, Antonio Richardson

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
  and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalms 34:18 (NIV)

Called by emergency dispatch
to direct traffic one night,
he beheld a young man on edge
about to jump out of sight.

At a height of fifty meters
above dark waters below,
the man’s life hung in the balance —
unknown which way it would go.

Two other officers approached
asking him to intervene,
hoping the part-time pastor could
avert tragedy at the scene.

For forty minutes he called out
telling him how much he cared
and how much his loved ones would hurt
if his precious life were not spared.

Then reaching out to him in prayer
asking him to touch his hand,
he felt the power of God act —
breaking through Satan’s last stand.

Suddenly, the young man’s hand clasped,
connecting souls high on a bridge,
overwhelming the officer
whose voice echoed on the ridge,
with words of strong encouragement
assuring him he was loved,
weeping for joy for the saved soul
rescued by the Lord above.