"Just One Person"

How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. (Hebrews 11:32-34 NLT).

I enjoy reading the chapter of faith in Hebrews from time to time just to remind myself of how important just one person can be in the history and plan of God. Our reading today is a part of the long list of the writer telling of the incredible faith of men and women who made such a difference in history. Throughout the entire Bible whenever God had a job to do he called a person, and usually just one person. When he wanted to form a nation, the nation of Israel to be his own people, he chose and called Abraham. When he wanted to deliver the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, he chose and called Moses. When he wanted a leader to take the children of Israel into the Promised Land, he chose and called Joshua. When he needed an earthly mother for the Christ child, he chose and called Mary. When he wanted to take His message of grace to the Gentiles, he chose and called Paul. From Genesis to Revelation, God's methods are people, one at a time. You, too, can be one that God uses. As the unknown poet wrote:

One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room.
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true.
One life can make the difference,
You see it's up to YOU!

Some of you may be saying that you’re not as young as you once were. Perhaps you’re not as strong as you once were. Or, maybe you just simply don’t eel as good as you once were. I like the lyrics of Toby Keith’s song, As Good As I Once Was: “I ain't as good as I once was but I'm as good once as I ever was!” And once is often enough! Who do you need to make a difference for today?