I’ve taken time out of my day to reflect on the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and I can’t help but be inspired by his persistent obedience. He once said, “there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor political, nor popular, but he must take it because conscience tells him it is right.” Being a follower of Christ is overwhelmed with times like these, but Matthew 10:22 says that “the ones who stand firm until the end will be saved.”
Obedience is important. The Bible even equates love with obedience; “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them” (John 14:21, NLT).
It is easy to post an influential photograph of Martin Luther King Jr. with a quote about justice, love, or peace while failing to really recognize why he was so committed to these values. Martin Luther King Jr. wasn’t merely an African American devoting his life to the Civil Rights movement, he was a relentless Christian led to stand up for justice, love, and peace because of his faith. Beautiful obedience.
Where are you at in your obedience to Christ? Is your love for Christ reflected in your obedience to Him?
“The final test of love is obedience, not sweet emotions, not willingness to sacrifice, not zeal, but obedience to the commandments of Christ” (A.W. Tozer, Renewed Day by Day, January 19).