Falwell and Grenz … strange comparison …

You have likely been through the "Where were you when …?" Our most obvious events in Oklahoma tend toward the Murrah Building bombing and what is referred to as, "The May 3rd Tornado." Yes, we do ask the same about Kennedy’s assassination and 9/11 once we peak out from our covered wagons and tent drapes. We all tend to first think to those significant events to which we have closer proximity.

Yesterday when my Google page came up with the news of the death of Jerry Falwell I admit to wondering if it is true. A friend called to see if I could verify the story. It did not take long. Neither did it take long for critics to begin the work of deconstructing the (non)value of Falwell. My thoughts raced to the news of Stanley Grenz’s death a little more than two years ago. I read in disbelief the piece written by David Dockery well before the memorial services could be planned much less conducted.

I had met Grenz and spoken with him on the phone. I never met Falwell. I heard Grenz at a conference. I may have heard Falwell but cannot recall. I was once in a service where Stan’s wife led worship. I have never seen Mrs. Falwell. I certainly have my preferences between the two men. However, both families deserve time to grieve.

I found Will Sampson’s words to point us in the right direction,

There will be plenty of time for deconstructing the legacy of Falwell
later. For now, please pray for his family, his loved ones, and the
Church that the peace of Christ will reign in our hearts.