by Felix Arellano on January 27, 2025
As January winds down, I find myself reflecting on an unexpected source of hope and inspiration—a moment that bridged history, humility, and legacy for me. You might have thought I was watching the Super Bowl with how intently I was glued to the screen. But no touchdowns or halftime shows were involved—just a profound moment in history unfolding before me. I was watching Jimmy Carter's funeral, captivated by the weight of a life well-lived and the unexpected lessons it offered for our own journeys.
A Moment Overshadowed by the Noise
It’s intriguing—maybe even a little sad—that an event of such magnitude, one that brought together every living American president, seemed to pass by with minimal attention from the general public. Yet there I was, drawn in by the gravity of the occasion. Initially, my only motivation for watching was the solemnity of a presidential funeral, a historical event in its own right. But I wasn’t prepared for how deeply inspirational and moving the experience would be.
The Weight of Scripture
What stood out most was the proclamation of Scripture woven into the service, especially when Jimmy Carter’s grandson read from the Book of Romans. Just imagine the weight of these words, written by the Apostle Paul in Romans 8:1–18, 38–39, being spoken in a room filled with the nation’s highest levels of leadership, including five living presidents. It was powerful. These timeless truths echoed in a room of temporal power, a profound reminder of hope that transcends any earthly accomplishment. (You can read the passage of Romans read at the service on page 5 of the service program.)
A President’s Love for Sunday School
Another moment that struck me was learning about Carter's love for teaching Sunday School. Imagine attending his church and being able to tell your friends that a former U.S. president was your Sunday School teacher! In a recent article, Scripps News interviewed a few members of The First Baptist Church of the City of Washington, D.C., who had the privilege of learning from him. After losing the 1980 re-election, Carter reportedly told his class that he didn’t want to be remembered as a great president but as “the best Sunday School teacher ever.”
As a children’s pastor, I have a soft spot for faithful volunteers who dedicate their hearts and time to share God’s Word with others. But I found it profound that, having served at the highest level of power—the United States President, leader of the free world—Carter still felt compelled to faithfully volunteer at his local church as a Sunday School teacher. I saw a glimpse of Christ’s teaching on servanthood when He reminded His followers:
“The greatest among you must be a servant” (Matthew 23:11, NLT).
It’s a beautiful reminder that the legacy we leave isn’t measured by titles or worldly success but by the lives we touch and the love we share through serving others.
Continuing Hope
As we move from the fresh starts of the New Year into the rhythm of ordinary days, Carter’s life offers a powerful message about hope—a hope anchored not in fleeting moments but in eternal truths. His example reminds us that hope doesn’t require grandeur or fame; it’s cultivated in the everyday choices to serve others, love deeply, and live faithfully. This kind of hope isn’t tied to a calendar; it continues to grow as we invest in what truly matters.
What Legacy Will You Leave?
Jimmy Carter’s funeral wasn’t just a historical moment; it was a spiritual one, reminding me that even in the greatest halls of power, God’s Word resonates. It challenges me to ask myself:
• What legacy am I building in my everyday life?
•How am I using my time, talents, and influence to serve others with humility?
Whether in small acts or grand gestures, your impact can ripple through generations. Let’s begin building a legacy of love and service that reflects the heart of Christ—one act of humility at a time. And as we do, may we find a hope that not only sustains us but inspires others to continue the journey with us.
