October 14, 2026
“…And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” – Ephesians 3:17-19
Archbishop Desmond Tutu was a remarkable servant of God. He was born to a poor family in South Africa. Much of his life was during apartheid. Desmond Tutu became an Anglican priest and political leader. When Apartheid ended and the South African government integrated, he helped lead South Africa’s rebirth. When Nelson Mandela became the president, he asked Archbishop Tutu to lead the historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission. His ministry helped to bring healing to a country divided and damaged by racism.
Desmond Tutu provided significant ministry and civic leadership for South Africa and the world. His influence blessed 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 quickly answered with a story about a chance encounter with a man when he was a youth. As he and his mom walked down the sidewalk, a tall white man approached. At the time in South Africa, it was understood that he and his mother should step off 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. This wonderful expression of kindness and respect left a lasting impression on Desmond Tutu.
This strange man was the local Anglican priest, Archbishop Trevor Huddleston. While serving in South Africa, Huddleston became 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. When asked about this defining moment and its influence on his life, Archbishop Tutu quickly responded with gratitude. Archbishop Tutu said the moment Archbishop Huddleston stepped off the sidewalk was “Something I could have never imagined. The impossible was possible.”
Simple kindness, like tipping a hat and taking a step in the right direction, can make a difference in our world. Kindness is powerful. It can and will positively shape the lives of the people around us. Kindness is the active work of sharing God’s love with the world.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
