Life’s Most Urgent Question

Today we celebrate the life and ministry of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  One of my favorite quotes is his bold claim that “Life’s most urgent and persistent question is, what are you doing for others?”

Dr. King gave his life for others. He lived what he taught. And because of his life, our nation came a long way in terms of healing a deep racial divide.

Indeed racism has diminished, but there is no doubt that it is still present. Healing must still take place. As Christians, we follow the One who said, “As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the church in Galatia, gives us a God’s eye perspective. He writes, “In Christ, there is no longer Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female, but all are one in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Today, let us honor the witness and the sacrifice of Dr. King by loving one another.

Let us pray: We consider the billions and billions of people you created – each and every one of us different – it’s awe-inspiring! You must delight in different shades of skin, hair textures, eye colors, shapes, sizes, and languages – for there is an abundance. We remember today that although we may look different and speak differently, we all love and dream. We all have fears and hopes. And, we share a common Creator – You who made us all.

Today we remember your servant Martin Luther King, Jr. who reminded us that your family stretches across the globe. We pray today also for all those who continue to sacrifice for the well being of others… we lift up especially military families, disaster relief workers, missionaries, and volunteers of all types. Pour out your redeeming Spirit on them, and on us, through Jesus Christ. Amen.