A Man of Character

James Earl “Jimmy” Carter, the 39^th President of the United States, died yesterday. He was a better man than he was a president, and he was not as bad a president as some might say. His famous Camp David Accords have ensured peace between Israel and Egypt to this day. Perhaps his devotion to human rights- a noble calling- was too idealistic for a President.

Yes, there were major problems in his term, mainly the Iran hostage crisis that doomed his presidency. It is clear that his life after his presidency was what he will be known for and acclaimed. He won the Nobel Peace Prize for his international work in ensuring fair elections, and eliminating dreaded diseases in poor countries that some of the developed world seemed to ignore.  

He lived his life as a true example of his Christian witness. He tried to follow the example of Jesus by actively bringing the good news of health and healing to “the least of these”- those forgotten or marginalized by others.

It almost seemed that his one-term presidency was just the “warm-up” for his real work in the world. While others would say that being the President of the United States was the hallmark achievement of their life, I think Jimmy Carter would say that living out his God calling was the achievement of his life.

He was devoted to his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn. That was a true love story unseen in these days. He humbly taught Sunday School in his little Plains, Georgia Church until he was physically unable to get to church.  

We mourn the passing of this man of character. He is now home, finally fully recognized for the good things he has done on this earth.

Rest in Peace, good man of character. We shall miss you.