Celebrating Mercy, Justice, and Peace: Three Reflections in Honor of Martin Luther King Jr. DaySýnishorn

There Will Be Peace

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. -John 16:33

When I was younger, I learned that Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a peaceful man—but I couldn’t understand why.

As he experienced the cruelty of prejudice, the brutality of violence, and the ferocity of hatred, he managed to speak words that were filled with compassion, kindness, and love.

As a child it didn’t make sense to me that Dr. King, and so many others, would choose nonviolence when the injustices against humanity were flowing. I wondered how anybody could stand in the face of prejudice and inequality and maintain peace.

As I got older, I learned that Dr. King not only understood what was necessary to create change, he was determined to be a vessel for change to occur.

Though we will face trials and tribulations, God assures us so that in Him we “may have peace” (John 16:33). He provides the instruction that we need to “bear with each other and forgive one another . . . and admonish one another,” using His wisdom to teach others (Colossians 3:13–16). As we recognize the need for change and work together to make a difference, He reminds us that we can be perfectly united in love (v. 14).

We decide how we will treat one another. In the midst of darkness, we can choose to be a light. In the face of hate, we can choose to love. No matter what happens, God can grant us peace.

Camille Humes

What adversities have you been facing? How will you maintain peace despite your circumstances?

Lord God, I thank You for the reminder that peace is possible because of Your unyielding love toward me.