From King’s Mountaintop To My
Promised Land
by Trennie Lanier Williams, Sr., PhDc
My first birthday had barely
passed when one of the world’s greatest leaders, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr., delivered his “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech at Mason Temple Church
of God In Christ in Memphis, Tenn., on April 3, 1968.
The significance of King’s
mountaintop, although my presence was miles away at that time, has impacted my
entrance into the Promised Land described in his message of hope, stability and
self-sufficiency.
From most people my personality
has been noted as a nice person with positive and progressive intentions. I’m
delighted and privileged to be thought of in such a good light despite my
shortcomings.
It is my determination to reach
a destination of civil and eternal recompense. In the midst of a constantly
changing world, we must keep on keeping on so proper change may occur in people’s
lives.
If I had the opportunity to be
with Almighty God since the beginning of time, being able to participate in
history after take a landscaping view of mankind, where would my most important
opportunity take place? Surely, I would love to experience the moment when
Jehovah fashioned, formed, prepared and created the heavens and the earth with
the words “Let there be….” It would be magnificent to see the miraculous happenings
of Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Esther, David, Mary, Tabitha, and Peter. To be an
physical witness of Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection would surpass
any Biblical moment that expresses God’s love for the world.
Then there are times of wars and
rumors of wars since the first century, from Asia to Africa; from Europe to the
Americas. Seeing the horrific bondages of slavery probably would make me cringe
with life’s fervor to overcome such tragedies. The U.S. Civil War between
northern and southern armies would be worth observing to understand why people
are so determined to remain separated from others. Taking into account the
Emancipation Proclamation, the Voting Rights Act, Affirmative Action, and other
measures have a place in history of considerable interest to me.
Yet, as I move from the
beginning of time, going from one incident to the next, my most significant
chance in history is right now. There is no greater moment than the time one
has between birth and an earthly life that has come to an end.
Joy is in the midst of lifelong
purpose that expresses agape in its true form. Even in a messy world of havoc,
hate, and hellish behaviors, my belief is there is plenty of room for light to
shine in darkness just as the stars shine in the night.
Our Father, as in His past,
present and future times, is working on our behalf. In exchange, we have not
given up hope. People, younger and older, are rising to the occasion. Why?
Because we want to be free from the entanglements that try to trouble our
souls, minds, hearts and strength.
The cry for survival is stronger
than ever before. A revolution has been stirred to continue the fight for human
rights, no longer neglecting poverty and the results of its following. Like
King and so many other patriarchs before us, we must not stop at merely talking
about our just place in society. We must be determined to follow through,
making sure the path remains for our children and our children’s children to
live a peaceable life of progress and dignity.
Unity means working together,
supporting one another, and uplifting each other. People around the globe have
a chance if we take a stance against anyone who tries to divide and overpower
what God has ordained.
We must sacrifice for what is
right. Present-day surrendering reaps the benefit of future blessings. Every
person should be willing to do what it takes to receive the victory for one’s
self and those around us.
Like the elements of the earth,
we have the burning desire of fire; the ever-flowing power of running waters;
the presence of peace like the airy breeze of a cool summer day; and a
solid-rock foundation as a ground that is unmovable and always abounding in His
work.
A transformation has to take
place where all ministers, community leaders, business owners, corporate
executives and others work together for the common good of all. No longer
should selfishness overrule the cause and affect of being blessed to be a
blessing. No more injustice. No more poverty. No more haves and have nots.
You are anointed to help solve
the problems of the world. Your purpose extends beyond self, working out the troubles
of others in the local and global community. This is the way we overcome
economic crisis.
As Dr. King and many other have
done in previous moments, it is our turn to take a stand today. Demand change
and do not let go. Make sure those who suppress will suppress no more. Ensure
that people and organizations that strengthen people will benefit from the
support of those they have helped along the way.
Let God’s will be your guide.
From the mountaintop to the Promised Land, make the journey without fear and
worry.
Now is the time for victory from
King’s mountaintop to our Promised Land where freedom abounds in every area of
life now and forever.
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