On May 8, 2013 Dr. Dallas Willard passed from this life and met The Divine Conspirator face to face. His legacy and impact around the world was profound. The article below and accompanying audio interview are from my time at The TACT Conference (Theological and Cultural Thinkers Conference) in 2008.
Dallas Willard is not in a rush. In fact, spending an hour in conversation with him, it becomes apparent that he moves to the rhythm of an altogether different drumbeat–an other-worldly drumbeat. A rhythm which emanates from somewhere deep inside.
As we are introduced I immediately begin to wonder, “Where have I heard this voice before?” Suddenly I realize that this noted scholar’s voice is one part William F. Buckley and one part Thurston Howell, III. I try not to act too distracted.
What does one expect when talking with an intellectual and spiritual giant? Hubris? Condescension? Distraction? None of these are present though during our time together. All said, Dallas is one of the most present, humble men I’ve ever met.
When the interview is over I thank him once more and we shake hands. I release my hand shake at the socially appropriate moment. But Dallas holds on. I’m in a rush to move along, though I have nowhere in particular to be. I’m caught off guard by the power of his being.
After an uncomfortably long time he releases my hand. He blesses me. I feel unsettled–but in a good way.
I wonder to myself, “Could this be holiness I’ve just encountered?”
I think so.
Question: What stood out to you in this conversation?
To learn more you can visit www.dwillard.org.
To download this file to your hard drive, simply right click here. (For Mac, control-click)
Joyce, thanks for your encouragement. The Kingdom needs to hear Willard’s message. Let’s not settle for the reduced gospel. I want the whole spiritual enchilada. Your blog looks great.