The Call – LO

We don’t use the word “lo” very often anymore. You’ll hear it occasionally in phrases like “lo and behold” or “lo these many years.” Otherwise, it’s a term that only poets use.

The word originated in medieval England sometime before the 12th century. The dictionary defines it as “amazement, surprise or wonder.”

A young boy told his mom, “I can’t wait to get to heaven.” The mother replied, “We’ll see Grandma and Grandpa again.” “And don’t forget Lo” the boy added. The mother looked puzzled. “You know – Lo – the angel of the Lord!”

The King James Bible uses the word “lo” 159 times. Jesus warned that many false messiahs would claim, “… Lo, here is the Lord ….” (Matthew 24:23). When the Jews rejected the Gospel, the Apostle Paul announced, “Lo, we turn to the Gentiles” (Acts 13:46).

The most well-known use of the word “lo” is in Matthew 28:20 (KJV). Jesus promised, “And, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”

You’re never alone in your calling. Jesus is right there with you. In His goodness He allows you to be part of His work. It’s a good thing, too. Jesus told us that “apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5). The only way to complete your assignment is through His Power and His Presence.

“Lo” is a really wonderful word. Perhaps we should use it more often.” I wonder.