October 21, 2025 - Good Morning! It’s Tuesday, October 21.
On October 21, 1960, John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon had the last of a series of four debates. The first one, a few weeks earlier, was watched on TV by 70 million Americans, and would affect not only who would win the presidency, but how America did politics.
Kennedy came to the debate with a suntanned face and a dark suit. Nixon arrived with a pale complexion and a gray suit. Kennedy brought his own make-up team. Nixon refused make-up. On the TV screen Nixon appeared physically ill, sweating under the studio lights, and his grey suit faded into the backdrop. Kennedy, on the other hand looked young, healthy, cool, and collected.
Those who listened to the debate on radio, overwhelmingly gave the win to Nixon. But for TV viewers it was no contest - Kennedy in a landslide. Going into the debate, Nixon led in the polls by six points. Coming out of the debate, Kennedy was on top, and two weeks later was elected the 35th president of the United States. Ever since, politicians have been judged not only by their experience and ability, but also by their appearance and likability.
For better or worse, we live in a world where, often, the way people look is more important than who they are. It’s surface over substance, beauty over brains, attractiveness over accomplishment. As usual, God’s view is the opposite of cultural trends. In I Samuel 16:7, He is counseling the prophet about how to select a new king, when he says, “Do not look on his appearance or on his height or stature . . . the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart”.
Meet you back here tomorrow,
David
cindertex50@yahoo.com
