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As I write this message I am reflecting on Jimmy Carter and the impact he has had on my life an on our country.
He was president during my high school years, and I remember talking about his policies and his faith in my civics class. It was an interesting experience to learn about how our government works in theory while the media portrayed Carter as both weak and backward, focusing on his peanut farming past and Southern Baptist beliefs. Yet, as I reflected on his life and leadership after Reagan came to power, I came to appreciate how his faith shaped his actions in ways that inspired me to think more deeply about my own values and political choices.
Carter's Christian faith, rooted in the pre-conservative takeover Southern Baptist tradition, was a defining force throughout his life. From his early days teaching Sunday school in Plains, Georgia, to his humanitarian work post-presidency, his commitment to Christian principles of compassion, justice, and service was always evident. (Remember those solar panels on the Whitehouse?) However, Carter wasn't a parochial church goer. His theological views evolved over time, particularly on issues like the LGBTQ community and women in ministry. Carter's faith-driven commitment to justice led him to become an advocate for full equality and inclusion, emphasizing that faith should never be a tool for exclusion or discrimination.
He was also a prophetic leader on the issue of Palestine. Carter's approach to the situation reflected his faith-driven commitment to peace and justice. His book Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid challenged U.S. foreign policy and the ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories, emphasizing human rights and the moral necessity of equitable treatment for all people in the region. His advocacy was controversial but grounded in his belief that faith calls for justice, even when it means challenging powerful systems.
What sets Carter apart as a faith-based leader is his refusal to impose his personal beliefs on the nation. During his presidency, he upheld the separation of church and state, ensuring that his theological convictions did not dictate national policy. This approach allowed him to advocate for moral leadership while respecting the pluralism of the American people. His belief in servant leadership and moral integrity shaped his presidency and his post-presidential humanitarian work, including his efforts with Habitat for Humanity and global health initiatives.
As we prepare for the next presidency knowing that the legacy of Jimmy Carter is anathema to Donald Trump, we need to ask ourselves: How might we be called to stand against Christian nationalism and an authoritarian state? How can we help keep Carter's legacy alive, living an authentic faith that calls for humility, growth, and the courage as we stand with the lost, the least, and the last.
May Jimmy Carter's legacy continues to inspire us as we seek a just and compassionate world.
Rest In Peace Mr. President,
Pastor Robin
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