By Katie Beckmann Mahon, Communications Manager
This week’s “Embracing Faith” article will focus on Embracing Faith through Inspiration.
"Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” -Hebrews 13:7
Yesterday, people throughout the United States came together to volunteer, attend prayer services, as well as educational and social events to celebrate Martin Luther King Day (MLK Day).
As the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service, many people, who were inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., spent MLK Day as “a day on, not a day off.” (1)
Whether you chose to spend MLK Day as “a day on or a day off,” it is important to focus on the three ways Dr. King’s life and legacy inspired us to be better.
1. To be a better Leader – Dr. King’s leadership inspired others to believe in his message and advocate for a world without injustice. His leadership inspired many to work toward a better life and make a difference for society. Today, Dr. King’s leadership skills would inspire many young people to develop their leadership and advocacy skills, as well as pursue their passions and create social justice movements.
2. To be a better Listener – Dr. King was not only an advocate, but he was a teacher. Along with his theological training, Dr. King closely followed the teachings of Gandhi and viewed him as “the guiding light of our technique of nonviolent social change.” (2) This mindset helped Dr. King understand and listen better to his followers, as well as engage with them on a deeper level. Today, Dr. King’s listening skills would inspire others to make more of an effort to be present with their peers and become an empathetic listener in a world full of many distractions.
3. To have more faith – Dr. King was a man who was known for his faith and dedication to his religion. In one of his most famous speeches, Dr. King said, “Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I'm not concerned about that now. I 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.” (3) Today, Dr. King’s faith would inspire others to embrace God, as well as their respective religions more deeply.
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