In a world filled with billions of people, it’s easy to feel insignificant, like a single drop in an ocean too vast to impact. But history and storytelling remind us time and again of the profound influence one person can have. As I was flying home from vacation, I had the opportunity to watch the movie One Life, starring Anthony Hopkins and Lena Olin. This film encapsulates this very idea, illustrating the ripple effect that a single life can create. One Life tells the inspiring story of Sir Nicholas Winton, a British humanitarian who, on the eve of World War II, saved 669 children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia by organizing their safe passage to Britain. Winton’s actions were not just brave, but also profoundly impactful, showing how the courage and compassion of one individual can alter the course of many lives.
Winton was an ordinary man, a stockbroker by trade, who could have easily chosen to live his life untouched by the turmoil unfolding across Europe. Instead, he recognized a need and stepped up, driven by a deep sense of empathy and responsibility. His story highlights how compassion can fuel extraordinary actions. Winton’s decision to intervene changed the fate of hundreds of children who would otherwise have faced almost certain death in concentration camps. Each of these children went on to live full lives, contributing to society in countless ways, raising families, and inspiring future generations. This movie illustrates the ripple effect one person can create. Winton didn’t just save 669 lives; he impacted generations. Each life he saved has gone on to touch others, creating a legacy that extends far beyond his initial act of courage. Because of Nicholas Winton, four generations are alive today.
While we may not have been impacted in such an enormous way, I bet each of us has a story about how one person had a life-changing impact on us. I know in my own story, I owe a great deal to a young man I met at Jumonville Camp and Retreat Center, the summer after the 7th grade. This was my first experience attending a church camp and I was a bit anxious as I arrived since I didn’t know anyone who would be there. Luckily I connected with another camper in my room, and we developed a friendship for the week. On the final night, during the closing chapel service, the pastor leading the service invited us to a time of prayer at the communion rail, to either begin or renew our relationship with Jesus. As I sat there, I had no intention of going forward until my friend elbowed me in the rib cage and whispered, “you need to go forward”. I followed his strong suggestion and approached the rail, knelt and prayed. I was overwhelmed by feelings and I heard a voice call my attention toward the leader and this voice said to me, “I want you to do what they are doing”. This was my call to the ordained ministry. And it began with a friend I had just met, elbowing me in the side and telling me to pray at the rail. All I have accomplished in the ministry and the lives I have been a part of, can all be traced back to that one night.
These stories, and many more like them, are testaments to the power of one—one person, one decision, one act of courage. It challenges us to look inward and ask ourselves: How can I make a difference? What small steps can I take today that might have a lasting impact? The truth is, we may never fully know the extent of our influence,
The impact of one person in this world is immeasurable. Just as Sir Nicholas Winton’s quiet heroism saved lives and shaped futures, each of us has the potential to create positive change in our own way. I want to encourage you to embrace this potential, reminding you that while you may be just one, you are never insignificant. Our lives, our choices, and our actions have the power to change the world, one life at a time.