"Be strong and of good courage." Deuternomy 31:7
He was named Michael Luther King, Jr. after his father, who was named for the archangel Michael. But in 1934, Michael Sr. went on a Reformation Tour to Germany. He learned about the life of the founder of the Protestant Movement, Martin Luther. Michael Sr. was captivated by the courage and determination of the 16th century monk who stood before the powers of the Church, risking his life to do so, and said, “I will not recant. Here I stand, I can do no other.”
Michael Sr. made an important decision to change his name to Martin Luther King. He wanted that to be a lasting reminder of the legacy of courage he spiritually inherited. Of course, with a son who was a “Junior,” that meant his name had to change as well. And that is how he came to be known as Martin Luther King, Jr.
An inspiration to live boldly sent him in a direction where boldness would be required. This Sunday part of our consideration of peace will include a reflection from Dr. King and a reminder that peace is not always a removal of conflict and unrest. Sometimes our desire for peace calls us to face unpeaceful forces.
So how might you mark this important day of remembrance? MLK Day is not a black holiday. It is an American holiday. It is a day for us to consider our basic tenets and values as Americans where there is to be liberty and justice for all. How might we mark this day?
First, consider the above events here at St. Luke’s: the Dream Keepers Panel and the MLK Family Day of Serving.
Second, there is a service being held at St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church at 11 AM Monday. Click here for information...
Finally, take a look at these events offered through the Indiana Annual Conference. This might be a good way to represent our church in the work of living out King’s Dream.
May you, too, be inspired with courage to live out the dream of peace on earth.