The Ones and Twos

By Rose McCormick Brandon

“Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:19,20, NIV).

During the 10 years I spent in leadership with a Christian women’s organization, I attended large international conferences with thousands of women from around the world. Many voices singing praises to our Lord gave me a strong sense of belonging to the global community of Christ. I always came away from these gatherings enthusiastic about sharing Jesus with others and encouraged in my personal walk with Him.

When Billy Graham visited a city near us, my husband and I attended the meetings. A strong urge seemed to permeate the stands. It drew people to leave their seats and walk to the front of the stadium to respond to the invitation to receive Christ.

On the other hand, when that same urge had touched my life it was not in a big meeting but in a tiny prayer room in the presence of only one other person.

In the Gospels we see Jesus speaking not only to the masses but also to the ones and twos. His conversation with the woman at the well changed her life. His one-on-one with the Gadarene demoniac and with Mary after the Resurrection are other examples of Christ’s personal touch.
Often we hear invitations like, “Come to this great conference, and God will meet you.” Christians who say these things mean well, but their words leave the impression that God only attends big meetings. That makes others who can’t attend feel left out. We forget that the power of God’s presence dwells with the ones and twos as much as it does with the multitudes.
Prayer: Lord, I’m thankful that You don’t reserve Your presence for crowds or speak only to important people. In fact, You enjoy the company of ones and twos, a category that includes me.

— Rose McCormick Brandon writes personal experience essays, Bible studies, news articles, profiles and devotionals from her home in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada.

from http://tpe.ag.org/Daily_Boost/index.cfm