Like many Americans, I am reflecting on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. today. At the start of our Foundational Leadership course this morning, we listened to an excerpt from his “I Have a Dream” speech, which is still a call to action for all people to unite in love and true freedom.
I also hold Dr. King’s “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top” speech in high esteem. Delivered on the night before his assassination, this speech revealed the heart of a man who was sold out for a purpose – a man who was willing to lay down his life for a cause.
Well, I don’t know what will happen now; we’ve got some difficult days ahead. But it really doesn’t matter with me now, because I’ve been to the mountaintop. And I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life – longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over, and I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land. And so I’m happy tonight; I’m not worried about anything; I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.
Delivered at Bishop Charles Mason Temple, Memphis, Tennessee, 3 April 3, 1968
Through his selfless sacrifice, Dr. King modeled the life of Jesus whom he served. He had a dream – a vision – of people living in love and harmony as God originally intended. Though not a perfect man, he denied himself earthly treasures to store up his treasures in Heaven. How appropriate that we are focusing on treasures during our Tuesdays quarterly book discussion?
I want to store up my treasures in Heaven by daily living with a focus on God. I want to care about the things that he cares about. I want to invest in the things that are important to him. I want to love as he loves and forgive as he gives.
I thank God that every day is an opportunity to live with the mountain top or Promised Land of Heaven in view.
What are your reflections on this holiday?
© Natasha L. Robinson 2011
A SISTA'S JOURNEY 