One Solitary Life

James Allan Francis

was an early-twentieth century American pastor who authored a handful of books. He is also the “anonymous” author who stands behind the famous poem, “One Solitary Life.” This poem which often circulates at Christmas time is a testimony to the power of Christ’s humble life.

As Christmas nears and we contemplate Christ’s incarnation, may we be reminded of the glorious power of Christ’s humble life.

He was born in an obscure village,the child of a peasant woman.He grew up in still another villagewhere he worked until he was thirty.Then for three yearshe was an itinerant preacher.

He never wrote a book.He never held an office.He never had a family or owned a home.He didn’t go to college.He never traveled more than 200 milesfrom the place he was born.

He did none of the thingsone usually associates with greatness.He had no credentials but himself;he was only thirty-threewhen public opinion turned against him.

His friends ran away.He was turned over to his enemiesand went through the mockery of a trial.He was nailed to the crossbetween two thieves.While he was dyinghis executioners gambled for his clothing,the only property he had on earth.

When he was deadhe was laid in a borrowed gravethrough the pity of a friend.Nineteen centuries have come and goneand today he is the central figureof the human race,the leader of mankind’s progress.

All the armies that ever marched,all the navies that ever sailed,all the parliaments that ever sat,all the kings that ever reigned,put together,have not affectedthe life of man on earthas much as that One Solitary Life. 

Soli Deo Gloria, dss

James Allan Francis, (Philadelphia: Judson Press, 1926).