Jesus: The One, The Only

"No one else holds, or has held, the place in the heart of the world which Jesus holds. Other gods have been as devoutly worshipped; no other man has been so devoutly loved."   -John Knox

As this year draws to a close, we will soon be inudated by compiled lists of the most influencial people in the world, country, region, city, so on and so forth. The will be lauded for their work in business, the arts, science and medicine, technology, social causes, politics, etc.

Those named on the lists will have their bios, photos, and other achievements/accolades presented to us in various formats. And undoubtedly, for the most part, their recognition is well-deserved. The trouble begins when we idolize these individuals; or view them as larger-than-life; even to the point of worship.

Granted, there have been those whose work truly benefits mankind. True heroes in their respected fields should be celebrated for their contributions in making our world a better place. For example, a research scientist who develops a medicine that can potentially save thousands of lives. Or, the leader of a country who works diligently to improve the lives and welfare of the people in his or her country.

Historically, the names on these lists tend to fluctuate over time, or simply fade away altogether. I suppose alot of it is caused by the tastes and interests of the masses; all of which can be notoriously fickle. After all, few of us can recall who the most influential person in the world was last year without searching it out online.

Yet through all of the din, confusion, applause, and revere one name stands out among them all. He has never needed inclusion on any lists, nor sought the adoring accolades of others. Even so, his imprint has been firmly planted on the minds of humanity since well before the introduction of any means of modern communication, and has remained so. His name? Jesus Christ, Son of God.

It has been noted that Socrates taught for 40 years, Plato for 50, Aristotle for 40, and Jesus for only 3. Yet the influence of Christ's 3-year ministry infinitely transcends the impact left by the combined 130 years of teaching from these men who were among the greatest philosophers of all antiquity.

During his life, Jesus cured the sick, stood up for the lost and downtrodden, and even resurrected the dead. Somehow, he managed to just fine without requiring the peoples approval. He never chased fame, fortune, or the spotlight. Nor did he expect anything in return. Jesus, along with his small band of followers, did what they did out of love and compassion for their fellow man.

His earthly mission was first shared with others by some of those who knew him intimately, then later committed to written language. Eventually, the record of his life and ministry was compiled into what we now know as the Bible.

Historian Kenneth Scott Latourette remarked, "As the centuries pass, the evidence is accumulating that, measured by His effect on history, Jesus is the most influential life ever lived on this planet." And although he never truly received the recognition that he deserved during his brief lifetime, what he did entrust us with is priceless.

His life has affected millions of others in ways that can never be thoroughly described. In fact, our very being is a product of his love for us. This comforting gift that he entrusted us with is instilled in our hearts. We don't need a list, television special, or awards ceremony to realize any of this. If we need to speak to him a special invitation or an appointment is not required. He is always available to us.

When we say that Jesus is the answer to our prayers, it is genuinely true. In the end, after all of the lists have been assembled and all of the individuals have been set side by side, Jesus Christ unequivocally stands alone.

Scripture: John 1:1; John 1:2; John 1:3; John 1:9; John 1:12

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. Amen (Matthew 6:9-13)

May God bless you!

Meredith