Sometimes we think that we can’t do much. In one sense that is true. When we recognize that we live in a world of 7 billion people all of whom have needs, what can one person do?

In another sense, it is amazing what one person can do.

I am studying and teaching through Acts. It has been a wonderful and amazing study. I have learned so much and been affected in so many ways.

One of the things I have seen is what one person can do. Paul, Luke, Philip, and Stephen all affected their world in ways far beyond what we normally consider that one person could do. Yet, these men doing what they could continue to make contributions to our world. Where would we be without Paul or Luke?

Paul himself had people around him who contributed greatly to Paul’s ministry. Where would Paul have been without those people?

When I think of what one person can do, I think of the Roman Tribune, Claudius Lysias.

Lysias was the commander of Roman forces in Jerusalem. His swift action spared Paul’ life–not once but twice. Had it not been for Claudius Lysias Paul would not have lived. Had that been the case, would Acts have been written? We can be certain that Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon would not have been written as well as the Pastoral Epistles.

I would encourage you to read the events of Paul’s life and the contribution Claudius Lysias made to Paul and to all of us. You can find this in Acts 21-24.

What can one person do?

First, we can be obedient when no one else is. While we can’t control what others do, we can control our own lives and be obedient to God.

Second, we can contribute to the lives of other people in much the same way Claudius Lysias did to Paul. Who is the one person in your life where you can make a difference? Would this be a grandchild or a neighborhood child or someone else? My wife was blessed by an elderly couple who lived across the street. They loved and encouraged her. She still speaks of them fondly. Is there someone around you who needs you?

Third, we can share a smile and encouragement to people in distress and sorrow. We live in such painful times. Would you do the one thing you can do to make someone’s life better?

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