David Donnan

The recent passing of Jimmy Carter has prompted me to reflect on his remarkable legacy, and I realize that I have never thought of him primarily as a president—and there are three key reasons for that.

First, I wasn’t alive during his time in office. While I’ve seen a few speeches and clips from his presidency, I don’t have a personal sense of his effectiveness or impact as a leader. Whether he was a good president or not is something historians continue to debate. That said, I can’t help but assume there may have been some bias against a president from Georgia, given the dynamics of the era.

Second, Jimmy Carter’s deep commitment to his Christian faith sets him apart in my mind. While I don’t agree with all his theological views or think his explanations of faith were always flawless, his dedication to living out his beliefs was undeniable. His faith inspired a lifetime of humanitarian work, leading many to regard him as the greatest former president. Carter’s decision to continue teaching Sunday school for decades exemplified his humble, service-oriented approach to life.

Third, and most profoundly, his memoir An Hour Before Daylight: Memories of a Rural Boyhood (#ad) had a transformative impact on my ministry and my understanding of the people I serve. In it, Carter reflects on his upbringing in Plains, Georgia, capturing what life was like in the rural South during the early 1900s. Growing up just a few dozen miles from Plains, I found his stories incredibly moving and insightful.

Carter’s vivid storytelling gave me a deeper appreciation for the struggles my grandparents and many of my older church members endured. His descriptions of life before air conditioning, the internet, and modern conveniences offered a window into a world that shaped their resilience and character.

One story, in particular, stands out—a gruesome account of Carter getting a splinter, told in such vivid detail that it alone is worth reading the book. If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend picking up a copy or borrowing it from your local library.

Jimmy Carter’s life and legacy extend far beyond his presidency. His commitment to faith, service, and storytelling has left an indelible mark on history and on those who take the time to engage with his work. For me, Carter’s reflections on his rural upbringing and his dedication to humanity have been a source of inspiration, helping me connect more deeply with the stories of my own community.If you’ve ever wondered what shaped one of the most compassionate leaders of our time, An Hour Before Daylight is a great place to start. It’s more than a memoir—it’s a lens into the past and a testament to the enduring power of humility and service.

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