Today, we give honor to a great Man of God, a powerful advocate for civil rights, and an inspiration to us all, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dr. King’s life has taught many great lessons to those of us who will pay attention. Even in the midst of adversity he held his head high and walked in character and integrity.

He taught us to love our enemies and to pray for them. He was the epitome of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He demonstrated the love of God. He gave his life so that we could experience freedom, not just African- Americans but all of us as a people. He believed that we could all live as one, not being judged by the color of our skin, but by the content of our character.

Let us demonstrate that same love and grace as we walk forward.

Father we thank you for the life of Dr. King. We thank you for providing us with examples that lead the way for us. Thank you for those that fought for our freedom. Thank you most of all for your Son that died on the cross to give us true freedom. May we walk in the same manner of love and allow our good works to glorify you. In Jesus name, Amen.

Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Grace and Peace,

Mary

© Mary Pinckney, 2015