Voice

A voice cries out . . . 

 - From Isaiah 40

What are the limits of wonders to be performed, by a single human voice?

A voice can issue forth ugly language, that turns people away. But it can heal with a gentle retort. 

It can carry forth a melody - in a minor key, laced with sadness; or in a major, buoyant with glad movement.

It can stir a crowd to action. Or it can settle the raging heart of a monster. 

And all this is possible, by one single person, using his or her voice. 

A voice is an irritant, when it is the last thing needed. It is a welcome friend, when one has been lonesome for too long. 

In the world's waiting for Christ, it all winnowed down to a single voice, crying out at the conclusion of 400 years of silence from God. Notice that voices did not cry out. But rather . . . a voice. 

God seems to prefer the work of individuals. Or perhaps, God's road less traveled just, simply, lends itself to solitary action on the part of the few . . . or the one. 

My great-aunt, Mae Turnbow, said "For the truth, I'll stand one to a hill."

Our generation forces people into separate, rival camps. "Whose side are you on?" and you're required to give a response. You are forced to choose. I choose God is met with ridicule. And yet in the eternal purview, it's the only answer that brings life. It's the only one that can heal, and feed, and clothe, and house. 

The world's mobs line up behind one of a handful of 0.01% zillionaires. These ungodly-wealthy people offer stuff, and money, and protection. Their plan for "giving back" is to increase control for themselves, over the masses. But mostly they offer a channel to the world's hurting - - - "Stick with me, and together we'll stick it to The Other." 

Choose your side. 

But ask a single needy human what they need . . . and the answer will be "Food." "A home." "Clothing." "A job."

And more than anything else, they need just one other human to notice, and to care. 

Resist the crowd. And be the one. Have a voice that, by standing alone, echoes longer and louder than the chants of millions.