Dr. William M. Wilson, President of Oral Roberts University, remembers the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Today, as we reflect on the life and enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we are confronted by a truth that resonates across generations: True courage is not the absence of fear but the audacity to persevere. Courage is fear that has said its prayers, as the author Dorothy Bernard once said, and Dr. King’s life stands as a profound example of this Divine truth.
Amid great adversity, Dr. King challenged us to redefine unity, justice, and equality. He lived the life of a man whose courage lit a fire for righteousness, whose faith moved mountains, and whose unwavering love for humanity changed the trajectory of history. Courage is a Divine gift—a spiritual strength that enables us to face danger, fear, and difficulty without retreat. In the words of Dr. King:
“We must build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear.”
To change the world, we must reject our fears, remove our biases, and respond with faith-filled actions. Courage is not reserved for history’s heroes. It is a calling for each of us. It is the quiet resolve to stand firm. It is the faith to face fear and pain with unyielding hope. It is the strength to do what God has called us to do in our day, in our time, and in our generation.
Dr. King shows us, “Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles.” His life leads us to what is possible when faith fuels courage and courage drives action. His dream guides us into a world where every person is judged by the content of their character and not the color of their skin. Dr. King gave us more than a vision for yesterday; he implores us to act today. Together, we are called to find that same courage within ourselves—rising above fear, standing firmly, loving boldly, and acting justly.
On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 20, 2025, let us commit to the path of courage—a courage rooted in faith, sustained by hope, and expressed in love. May we honor Dr. King’s memory as we strive to build a culture that reflects the Kingdom of God—one of peace, justice, and equality for all.