King, The Rev. Dr Martin Luther, Jr. He holds such a significant place in modern American history. He, Anne Frank, and Barbara Walters were all born in 1929. Mind-blowing. He is one of those pre-eminent figures that have a hallowed status. So much is owed to him. There have been so many quotes of his on Facebook the past few days. If you have never visited the Human Rights Museum in Atlanta, it is very much worth the trip. Most of it is a retrospective of America’s civil rights movement and of course Dr. King. There is a special room devoted to his letters, memorabilia, and tributes from all over the world.

Yesterday was the day we remembered him with a federal holiday. Many people commemorate it by doing kind deeds for others. Social justice. Service projects. All beautiful tributes at a time in our nation when it is so good, and the timing so right. We still have systemic racism, even though Dr. King broke so many barriers with his ministry of non-violent protest. We may never be one peaceable kingdom on earth until Christ comes again.

It is men like Dr. King, and causes such as equality for all citizens, that force us to face our personal prejudices. To not recognize our communal sin is to be dishonest to ourselves. Our Savior and King Jesus Christ came to purchase our salvation and reconcile us to God the Father. Yes, certainly (or as my preaching professor would say “yea, verily”!). But Jesus also came at a specific moment in human history so that he became the very point and purpose of human history. Every day, we can be reminded of the kingdom of God which is past, already and not yet in Jesus Christ our Lord. Peace. Freedom. Justice. Truth. Love. In certain times of human history, specific messengers come to reveal to us those kingly attributes. May we be humbled as we prayerfully seek the unconditional love of God that is ready and waiting for us to grab hold of.

Pastor Art