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FIRST-PERSON: Remembering one of Christ’s humble servants


THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. (BP)–Carl Keck passed away April 14. Who was Carl Keck? Well, according to his resume, he was an actor, writer and teacher. His card read, “Hero Productions: Need A Hero?” Those who knew him insisted he was a dreamer. But none of those labels truly defined this 50-year-old man who died of complications resulting from diabetes. The true description of Carl Keck would have to be: a servant of Christ.

Years ago when Dr. Jess Moody was pastor of Shepherd of the Hills Church in Porter Ranch, CA, I headed the drama department for a little while. We’d do skits every so often and I asked Carl to participate in several of them. No matter how small the role or big the burden, Carl was always there, on time, and usually first to arrive. It was around then that I began to sense Carl’s unfailing desire to serve our Lord. He had a servant’s heart for Christ, his church and anyone else who happened to need a hero for a moment. And despite his desire to become established in some field of artistic endeavor, I never knew Carl to put ego, pride or self-interest ahead of his dedication to our Lord.

I review films, and about once a month I’d invite Carl to a press screening. He’d always show up gift in hand: candy, a film book or a video. I told him, “Carl, I get these tickets free. I enjoy your company. I like talking movies with you. You don’t need to bring me anything.” With a smile, he’d say, “I know.” The following screening he’d show up with a box of Red Vines or my favorite DVD. Very generous.

I learned of Carl’s passing when I called his house to invite him to a screening. He loved action adventures and comic book heroes. I wouldn’t dare see a “Star Wars” episode or “Lord of the Rings,” or in this case, “X2,” without inviting Carl. His brother, whom I had never met, answered the phone. Before he spoke, I somehow knew.

Two things hit me that day. From now on I was going to have to see a lot of action films without my buddy Carl. That won’t be easy. More importantly, the resoluteness of his ministering heart impacted me like never before.

Carl didn’t see many dreams fulfilled. As a screen actor, he never got much more than a background extra job. He wrote countless screenplays and story ideas, yet never sold one. As a substitute teacher, he probably never inspired the same resulting admiration as Mr. Chips – not because he wasn’t a knowledgeable educator, but because he wasn’t a constant in the students’ lives. He was alone, never married, but wanting to be. And like the rest of us mere mortals, he occasionally pondered, “God, why can’t something good happen?” Yet, as I look back, Carl never let disappointment interfere with being a servant to Christ.

He helped me move twice, listened to my whimperings after an ended romance and always cheered my artistic efforts. And he reached out to many others over his lifetime. I recently learned that Carl brought an injured homeless man to his apartment, fed him, kept him there for the night, and then took him to a clinic the following morning.

Upon Carl’s death, I was reminded that all too often we focus on earthly success — or on those who have gained notoriety. In my head, I already knew that to be wrong. Now, it has hit me square in the spiritual solar plexus. The only accomplishments that remain eternal are those done in service to Christ. Whatever earthly success man achieves will fade with time. What is done for the Lord, however, will shine on through eternity. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant … just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:26, NIV).

No, his name never appeared in TV Guide. Nor was it ever read under “screenplay by…” on a film’s opening credits. And at times during summer vacation, his credit card got dangerously close to maxing out. But through all these frustrations, Carl Keck steadfastly clung to his faith and became successful, for he stored up treasures in Heaven.

Yeah, Carl, we needed a hero. And you were one.
–30–
Philip Boatwright reviews films from a Christian perspective. For more information about his service, go to www.moviereporter.com.

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  • Phil Boatwright