Elvis & Nixon

The above picture has been heralded by the National Archives as the most requested photo annually for purchase (even more than the Bill of Rights or the Constitution). It was taken on December 21, 1970, in the Oval Office when Elvis Presley at the zenith of his career corresponded with the Commander-in-Chief, Richard M. Nixon for a visit.

In my personal collection, I have a picture in color of this classic clip. Keep in mind that President Nixon was not only “conservative in politics” but a Quaker in faith. Elvis and his entourage showed up at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue adorning jewelry, packing heat (gun) and rolled into town like they owned the place. Elvis was extremely respectful of the Presidency and it appeared that Nixon was smitten with Presley. Elvis (you cannot tell in the black and white picture) was wearing a purple – that is right – PURPLE suit with silk, white collar shirt, 14K gold belt and a purple cape that would have made Prince, Barney and Batman proud.

Standing in the seat of power in the Oval Office, President Nixon stared Elvis’ outfit up and down and couldn’t quite figure out what to do or say with his visiting citizen from the South. The conservative Nixon said to the flamboyant Presley: “That is quite an outfit you got there.” Without missing a beat, Elvis in his trademark smile and southern charm said: “Sir, you got your show and I got mine.” The crowd laughed and once again Elvis made his mark and point.

The morale of the story is that God has equipped and gifted us all differently. We all have gifts that can help further the Kingdom of God. For those that believe that Christ is the Son of God, born of a virgin, lived a perfect life, died on the cross as our Substitute, arose on the third day, conquered sin, death and the grave and is coming back as the only Savior to Heaven it is imperative that we push aside our differences and unite to serve as soldiers in the Lord’s Army. Regardless if one group speaks in tongues, the other places an emphasis on healings, worships on Saturday or Sunday (or both), etc. Keep in mind that some of the other denominational differences we differ on pale in comparison when we realize we are kids of the King, heirs to Him and a child of the Living God. We may wear different uniforms but as blood, bought believers we are saved by grace and have a home in Heaven; therefore, playing on the same team regardless if in different stadiums.

Make no mistake – I am not implying that one can get to Heaven outside of Christ. Jesus is The only Way to Heaven and it’s because of His death on Calvary’s cruel cross and confessing our sins by faith is the only hope we have for Heaven. What Elvis was suggesting was actually more Scriptural than comical. We all have gifts and we should invest them and implement them even if they are slightly different than our worship preferences. The Bible notes: “Whatever your hand finds to do – do it for God’s glory.” Regardless, if you are a mechanic – change carburetors for Christ. If you are a dentist – do root canals for the Redeemer. If you are a teacher – strengthen students scholastically for the Savior. Nixon was a politician and Elvis was an entertainer but the key is to use our talents for the Lord’s service and glory.

God is watching and the world is waiting and may we give the Lord a good show. More than for the applause of man but a life of worship worthy of our great God & King (Jesus). In closing, you “got your show” and I got mine but together lets serve the Savior like never before. After all, if you are a sinner saved by grace – we are not only on the winning team (but the same team). As Elvis would say: “Thank ya, thank you very much!” However, what we can all say: “Thank you Jesus!”