“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” –John 15:12
James “Jimmy” Earl Carter Jr. served as the 39th president of the United States of America. Jimmy Carter led a remarkable life of service. Today, he will be memorialized in a national funeral service at the National Cathedral.
We can learn many things from the remarkable people who have served in our nation’s highest office. Politics aside, President Jimmy Carter lived a remarkable life. He was the first president to be born in a hospital. His family lived in Plains, Georgia, where his father was a businessman, and his mother was a nurse. He excelled academically, eventually earning an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. He would serve as an officer in the Navy, mostly aboard submarines. After ten years in the Navy, he entered politics. He would become the governor of Georgia and eventually serve as President of the United States.
It was President Carter’s life beyond political office that may have made the most significant impact on the world. Dedicated to his faith in God and service to others, President Carter worked with Habitat for Humanity for over 40 years. Habitat for Humanity works to provide affordable housing and help people build a better life and community. President Carter helped raise money and bring worldwide attention to their mission. His work for Habitat went far beyond being a spokesperson. President Carter was often found on one of the work sites, hammer in hand, helping to bless a family while sharing the kindness of God. When President Carter was asked what his favorite part of building a home was, he answered, “handing the keys and a Bible to home recipients, who, along with volunteers, are often moved to tears.”
President Carter’s life of 100 years is an example to us today that service to God and neighbor is a beautiful life lived. His work inspired thousands of volunteers to serve their neighbors. When he was interviewed about his work with Habitat, President Carter said, “When we left the White House, we could have done anything, but our choice was to volunteer as Habitat workers, and it has been life-changing for us.” It is safe to say that President Carter also changed the lives of others as he offered himself in service to God, country, and neighbor.
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” -Romans 12:10
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
