“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. -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top” April 3, 1968
The work and ministry of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has left an indelible mark on our world. His work for civil rights and justice helped change our country and our world. When I read Dr. King’s speeches and writings, I cannot help but be swept up in the power of his words. He, indeed, was a great preacher, motivator, and leader whose work inspired a nation.
Dr. King’s final speech is “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top.” In this speech, delivered in Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. King talks about an incident that happened to him while in New York City. While at a book signing in New York, Dr. King was approached by Izola Curry. This young woman struggled with mental illness. She stabbed Dr. King. Fortunately, the weapon used did not end his life. However, she did come very close, barely missing his heart. Word began to spread that the blade was so close that if he had sneezed, the outcome would have been much worse.
In Dr. King’s speech, he recalls a letter he received while in the hospital recovering from this attempt on his life. It was a letter from a young girl in the ninth grade who wrote, “I read that if you had sneezed, you would have died. And I’m simply writing you to say that I’m so happy that you didn’t sneeze.” This young girl captured the heart of so many by expressing her gratitude for Dr. King and thankfulness that he was safe. This young girl’s expression of gratitude became the foundation for Dr. King’s now famous speech. I have no doubt that Dr. King received many such expressions of appreciation for his well-being.
Today, we remain deeply thankful for Dr. King’s work and accomplishments. I am also grateful for the example of this young lady who took time out of her day to write and express her gratitude. She was aware of the important work he was trying to accomplish and was mindful of how vital Dr. King was to the civil rights movement. Today, our nation joins this young lady in expressing our gratitude to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His life was an example to us all. As we celebrate Dr. King’s life today, let us also remember that there is still much work to be done so that we may truly live in a world where God’s love is realized in our love for one another.
“But as I continue to think about the matter, I gradually gained a bit of satisfaction from being considered an extremist. Was not Jesus an extremist in love? – “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, pray for them the despitefully use you.” …So the question is not whether we will be extremists, but what kind of extremists we will be. Will we be extremists for hate or will be extremists for love?” -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Letter from Birmingham Jail)
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
