DREAMERS LEAD

This last Monday we celebrated the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  For many of us, it was a day off and an opportunity to catch up on routine tasks, or a day to catch an extra moment of rest.  Hopefully in that time, you took a moment to reflect on the impact of what one person can do when they indeed, have a dream.

When we look at Dr. King, we realize we have all been impacted by his dream.   Amazingly, Dr. King did all of this before reaching 40 years old.  He was not limited by the assumptions age that is often placed on us.  He was not limited by the “inexperience” others would assume he would have.  No, he led, and led well, because he was driven by the passion of a dream. 

What we can learn from Dr. King:

• His dream required sacrifice.  Dr. King gave everything he had for the dream he believed in.  For him, it cost him his life.  For us, it will cost us time, money, efforts, and energy.  When we believe in something, we will be willing to count the cost.
• He didn’t wait to accomplish the dream.  Dr. King accomplished all that he did before he was 40.  He gave his great speech at the age of 35.  Don’t let any excuse keep you from the dream and vision God has given you.  What could be accomplished today, that you are putting off until tomorrow?
•  His dream was captivating.  A nation stopped and listen to one man share his dream.  Over 200,000 where in attendance to hear his speech.  Millions more watched on television or listen on radio.  Let your dream be captivating.  It must first captivate you.
• His dream changed the world.  Our dreams should impact those around us.  Our greatest dreams are selfless and benefit all who we minister to.  How are our dreams making things better for those around us?

In the Old Testament, we read the story of Joseph.  He too had dreams.  He faced great sacrifice and tribulation.  His dream changed the world and met the people at the greatest point of need in his time.  Even when faced with the greatest of adversity, Joseph held on to his dream, and saw his dream to completion.  God honors the pursuit of spirit-led dreamers.

Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream served a nation in one of its greatest times of need. Dr.  King left a lasting impact because he was driven by his dream, and his passion to see it through.  What are you dreams and what are you doing to accomplish them?

 Let us dream dreams only God can give us, and let us see them through.

Abe Daniel - District Student Ministries Director

Northern California and Nevada Assemblies of God Student Ministries