There are many instances in the Bible where one person made a difference. Abraham was one man through whom "all the families of the families of the earth will be blessed." (Genesis 12:3b) God promised Abraham that his decendents would number the stars in the sky. From one man came a nation.

Moses was one man that dared to relinquish a life as the son of royalty and boldly go before Pharoah demanding the release of his people. One man was used to save a nation.

Peter was one man who, during the day of Pentecost, proclaimed that he was not drunk on wine as they supposed, but filled with the Holy Spirit. Peter preached Jesus Christ and 3,000 souls were added that day. Through one man thousands of lives were changed forever.

And of course let us not forget Jesus Christ who died once and lives again that we might have an opportunity at eternal life. Just as one man, Adam, sinned causing sin to reign forever, so one man died and rose again that we might have life forever.

There is a lot that one person can do. Think of all the inventions created by one person that have shaped the way we live. Think about that one grandmother, grandfather, mother, father or teacher that played a major role in how you live your life today. Yes, there's power in one. One person, organization, or church can make a difference in the lives of those suffering. One smile or touch can change someone's perspective in life. One kind word or helping hand can uplift a desperate soul.

Pastoral accompaniment is one step at a time; beginning with one decision, one church and one refugee family. The decision made by our session or committee to sponsor a refugee family will be one of the most important single decisions we will make; for in that one act life begins anew to a deserving family.

The benefits are many. We will actually see the difference a touch, a smile or a hug can make. We will see the transition from traumatized to secure. We will assist in the refugee's acclimation to a new country and culture, while learning their culture in return.

All this happens because we decided to take that one step. Let us start today thinking how we, as one person and one congregation, can make a difference in the lives of many hurting people. One act of lifesaving generosity can change a hurting family forever. Let us choose to have power in one and change lives.

 
 

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