Martin Luther King was the civil right’s most influential leader and used his ability to speak with courage about African Americans’ grievances. Sadly, King was assassinated on April 4, 1968. In 1983, Congress made the third Monday in January a federal holiday to honor King.
Prejudice seems to be a weakness of all of us. We are prone to judge others by external characteristics rather than who they are as beautiful humans created by God. In fact, sometimes, we’re so busy judging people that judge other people that we can’t even see that we judge too!
Martin Luther King HAD to do something. He HAD to speak up for such atrocities! He challenged the status quo, and spoke with boldness and conviction. Have you thought about his words for your own life? As we celebrate Martin Luther King Day today, thoughtfully consider some of King’s powerful quotes:
"I have decided to stick to love…Hate is too great a burden to bear." King taught us so much about love. Where does the burden of hate exist in your heart? With whom (individuals or races) have you withheld love? What better action could you have today, but to love ALL people?
"Forgiveness is not an occasional act, it is a constant attitude." Forgiveness is not a popular topic. Who wants to own up to un-forgiveness? Yet, King knew, if he didn’t forgive, it would eat away at him. It's true for you and I as well.
"No person has the right to rain on your dreams." Whom have you given too much power in your life? King knew that if we doubt ourselves, so will others. Dream! Dream BIG. Don't let the judgements and opinions of others hold you back from your convictions.
"Faith is taking the first step even when you can’t see the whole staircase." I want the faith of Martin Luther King. He had a great faith for a future where everyone would co-exist in love. He trusted in God, even when he didn’t see the whole picture.
"In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." Who wants to speak out? Speaking out can get you into trouble! For MLK, it cost him his life. But, how can we remain silent if God has called us to speak?
"If you can’t fly, run. If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, crawl. But by all means keep moving." Where have you got stuck in life? King reminds us we can’t give up. No matter what. What is God calling you to do? Never, never give up. Make a difference.
"Courage is the power of the mind to overcome fear." King believed in God and lived for God. He stood up to his fears and was a very courageous man. Would others see you the same way? "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7
As we celebrate Martin Luther King Day, consider your own personal life and choices. May God use this great man to inspire and challenge us for a greater life.
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain of the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
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