“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.” -Lamentations 3:22-23
Archbishop Desmond Tutu was a remarkable servant of God. He was born to a poor family in South Africa during apartheid. Desmond Tutu became an Anglican priest and political leader. When Apartheid ended and the South African government integrated, he helped to lead the re-birth of South Africa. When Nelson Mandela became the president, he asked Archbishop Tutu to lead the historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission. His ministry helped to bring great healing to a country divided and damaged by racism.
Desmond Tutu’s ministry and civic leadership were significant for South Africa and the world. He was a meaningful influence for so many people. He became a voice for human rights around the world. Archbishop Tutu was once asked the question, “What would you say was a defining moment in your life?” He was quick to answer with a story about a chance encounter with a man when he was a youth. While he and his mom were walking down a sidewalk, a tall white man was approaching. Because this was during apartheid, it was understood that he and his mother would leave the pavement and yield to the white man. However, this white man quickly stepped off the sidewalk and tipped his hat to them as they walked by. It was a wonderful expression of kindness and respect that left a lasting impression on Desmond Tutu.
This strange man was the local Anglican priest, Archbishop Trevor Huddleston. While serving in South Africa, Huddleston would become a leading voice in opposition to apartheid. Desmond Tutu was deeply grateful for that moment of grace shown to him and his mother. It helped to lead him into the ministry. Archbishop Tutu would later consider Archbishop Huddleston a mentor. Whenever he was asked about a defining moment and influence in his life, Archbishop Tutu would quickly respond with words of gratitude. Archbishop Tutu said the moment Archbishop stepped off the sidewalk was “Something I could have never imagined. The impossible was possible.”
Simple kindness, like the tip of a hat, can make a difference in our world. Expressing our gratitude for the acts of kindness shown to us reminds us of the positive things that are present in a world often marked by turmoil and negativity. Expressing our gratitude reminds us of the good we have seen and inspires us to share the same kindness with others. Gratitude can positively shape our lives, allowing us to change and become the people who can change the world.
Rev Keith King, Pastor of Worship
