“The measure of a society is found in how they treat their weakest and most helpless citizens.” Jimmy Carter
Jesus said to them, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his hometown and with his own people and in his own home.” Mark 6:4 (NCV)
James Earl Carter Jr., better known as “Jimmy” Carter, was the 39th President of the United States. He was elected in November, 1976, following Gerald R. Ford. His presidency was widely seen as ineffective, largely due to the Iran hostage crisis, and his failure to effect a plan to rescue the hostages. The military rescue operation he enacted ended in a disaster in the desert, and he was never able to overcome the negative blowback resulting from that.
He was able to engineer the Camp David Accords which was a major international accomplishment. Despite some successes in his presidency, his one term was not considered to be particularly remarkable. It was only after his presidency that he gained acclaim and honor as perhaps the most impactful ex-president in U.S history.
His work for Habitat for Humanity, the Carter Center, and his stature internationally as a trusted impartial mediator of elections attest to the trust and respect given to him throughout the world. His 2002 Nobel Peace Prize is just one validation of his legacy after he was president.
He is now in Hospice care at age 99, and he has little time left on earth. By all measures, his life has been well lived and impactful. His Christian faith has been his beacon and standard, and in a time when Christians are seen as hypocritical and judgmental, he stands as a real follower of Jesus and a true model of character.
The quote of Carter, cited above may well sum up his view of life and his Christian faith. So as his time winds down, I salute the life of this man who served his God, his country, and the world.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the life and work of Jimmy Carter. Bless him on his journey home, Amen
Reflections of a Counselor 