Editor:
Over the past several days, I have been absorbed in the interviews about Nelson Mandela on television, especially the two programs devoted to his memory by Charlie Rose and his guests who knew Mandela as a family member, world leader or as a friend. Throughout watching these programs, I was particularly inspired by his life and how it was related to the life and teachings of Jesus. His acts of forgiveness, the cornerstone of our Christianity, and “turning the other cheek” by not holding grudges, nor resentments to those who rejected him and did him great harm were inspirational. This was especially true to his jailors who were special guests at his inauguration as president after his 27 years in their jail, often with brutal mistreatments, carrying his own cross in silence and acceptance. In many ways, he lived the words of St. Francis of Assisi to “preach the Gospel but only use words when necessary.” Like Jesus, he never, to my knowledge, used the word Christian.
We know that Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount; however Nelson Mandela lived it in a very deep and profound way through listening and compassion but at the same time exhibited the “tough love” discipline and political strategy and instincts required to bring about the peaceful transition to a multiracial democracy in South Africa. This unique man met the calling of Jesus to “Come Follow me” in a very real way through his authenticity. endurance and integrity. May his example be a light in this world in which we live.
Jack Callahan
Cherry Hill