I Have a Dream

The 1960s were a time of many challenges.

Between the Vietnam War and the tragedy of several assassinations, including that of the president of the United States of America, we were all left needing hope. In 1963, during this tumultuous time, civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I Have a Dream” speech. It was inspiring and powerful, filled with eloquent words about his dream for a day when there would be no more prejudice toward people of color.

All people should be judged by the content of their character. When Jesus was answering the question about the greatest commandment, He said, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39, NKJV). This sums up how we should treat everyone. Jesus came to Earth to show us how to achieve this. He sacrificed His life so we can have life—a changed life in which we think of others first and, ultimately, an eternal life after He returns to take us home. So, this is my dream: that each day I will wake up having grown closer to Jesus and be more like Him in character. I have a dream that the Holy Spirit will guide me in everything I say and do so I can reflect the love of God. I have a dream that I will always treat others the way I want to be treated—with love, compassion, and respect. I have a dream that when I make a mistake, I will own up to it, ask God’s forgiveness, and move on. I have a dream that all people will recognize who Jesus really is one day and accept His gift of salvation. And last but not least, I have a dream of being a blessing to others, and even though I have made a multitude of mistakes, those others will see I have been forgiven—and that they can find the same path to forgiveness. I am thankful my walk with God grows each day. I am still a work in progress, but with Christ at my side, all things are possible. What is your dream today?

Jean Dozier Davey