"The Power of One Word"

 

“The Power of One Word”

 

In December of 1944 the U.S. Army’s 101^st Airborne Division was under attack by German forces during World War II’s Battle of the Bulge. The enemy’s leader sent a message to the Unit’s Commander, Gen. Anthony McAuliffe, demanding surrender to which McAuliffe famously replied with one word: “Nuts!” The Americans dug in, the tide of the battle and war was turned and Germany surrendered on May 7, 1945. A single word response made a tremendous difference.

Here are several more examples of the power of one word, all of which have biblical significance:

*In 1982 First Lady Nancy Reagan told a schoolgirl who asked what to do if she were offered drugs: “Just say ‘No!’” (“Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’, and your ‘No’, No’….”—Matthew 5:37).

*In a world-wide gathering of Salvation Army officers in 1910 General William Booth’s message was simply “Others!” (“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.”—Mark 16:15, NKJV, emphasis added).

*A line in Martin Luther’s great hymn “A Mighty Fortress” says, “One little word shall fell him (i.e. Satan).” (“…At the name of Jesus every knee should bow….”—Philippians 2:10, emphasis added).

*Upon seeing Jesus alive on Resurrection Morning Mary Magdalene cried out in wonder and recognition, “Teacher!” (John 20:16). (“You call me ‘Teacher’…and rightly so….”—John 13:13).

*One of Jesus’ final utterances from the cross was “It is finished.” (John 19:30). (It’s one word in Greek, literally meaning “It has been completed.”) (“…Christ died for sins once for all….”—1 Peter 3:18, emphasis added).

We see the power and significance of other “one word” statements, some of which call for obedience (“Stop”), provide welcome (“Aloha”) and afford protection (“Exit”). But perhaps the most meaningful “one word” we can hear is “Come” because it shows acceptance and desire for fellowship. Jesus invited Peter to walk on the water with Him (Matthew 14:29) and weary ones to find rest in Him (Matthew 11:28). And He welcomes all to Himself (“…Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”—Romans 10:13, emphasis added).

Jesus has said “Come!” to you—have you said “Come!” to Him?

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan