The slogan adopted by the Army in 2000 was “An Army of One” which lasted only six years before being replaced by “Army Strong.” The slogan was meant to reflect the fact that “One” was an acronym meaning “Officers, NCOs, and Enlisted.” No one understood it that way except the team that came up with the slogan. The previous slogan (“Be All That You can Be”) lasted twenty years; so, it is clear that this one failed.
We live in a country where the citizens pride themselves on their rugged individualism (“pull yourself up by your own bootstraps”). A favorite hymn of many people is “In the Garden” whose open line is “I come to the garden alone.” If we are not careful we tend to apply the idea of rugged individualism to our faith . . . we will do it alone . . . we will make it on our own.
Jesus said this: “Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” [Matthew 18:19-20].
Real power comes through being a team—not a loner. Whether we like it or not, too many of us not only sing “In the Garden,” we try to live it (just Jesus and me). When we do that, we fail to realize the full potential within us that is only unlocked when combined with others’ potential. Be a team player . . . and let Jesus do the rest.
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