MLK

It's the end of a long day, but one that I particularly enjoy each year. I look forward to the documentaries and the celebrations of Martin Luther King Jr.'s life. This year, it was even more of a special event, because it was the catalyst for talking about race relations in America with our children. The history of race relations in America only has an effect on them now - they are Ghanian, not African American. However, because it does affect them now, we have had the opportunity to discuss things like the Civil War, slavery, segregation, civil rights, the KKK, and the importance of Martin Luther King, Jr.

I had the privilege of taking a semester-long class on Martin Luther King, Jr. during my last year of seminary. We chronicled the events of his life, and looked specifically at his speeches and sermons. We listened to audio tapes and interviews, and met with people who were instrumental in the civil rights movement. I recall that I was really appreciative of the form of his sermons, and analyzed a number of them to discover his set pieces (particular stories or passages he would return to from time to time).

I came out of that class with a number of books containing his writings, sermons, and speeches. Since that class, I have made it a point to read at least some of those writings on his birthday. Today was no exception, and as I began to read A Knock at Midnight, I was reminded of how clear of an orator he was. As I read his opening paragraphs, I also was reminded that we have come a long way from the time of that address. The strides we have made toward racial equality in America are immense. Still, I couldn't help but think, as I read his opening lines, that much of what he addresses still needs to be carried out further - economic injustice, social and moral decline, among others. The words spoken for a time fifty years ago are still relevant to the time today. I guess that's what happens when a prophet speaks - it's timeless. Like Joel, Isaiah, and Jesus, King's prophetic words stand the test of time. They are as important now as they were 50 years ago, and will continue to speak to people for generations to come. Today, I give thanks to God for prophetic witness, and pray that I can be so bold in proclaiming our current reality and hope for the future.