December 10, 2020

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, DC. Photo Credit: Anita Flowers

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be engulfed, every hill shall be exalted and every mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plains and the crooked places will be made straight and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together. This is our hope.  – Martin Luther King Jr. quoting Isaiah 40.

 "I have a dream." These words were the pinnacle quote of Martin Luther King Jr., when he made his speech at the Lincoln Memorial (August 28th, 1963). These words had a significant impact on people of color, because for the longest time they were treated unfairly. Unfortunately, even to this day, they continue to be.

 The way this relates to peace is that there were wars about racism, there were slaves, so this quote reminds everyone that we're lucky to live in such a different place than in the past.  Peace and equality are always our goal. This also reminds us that it is such a peaceful world in Canada, and that even though there are still wars, we are grateful to live in a county without any.

 We are also reminded that Covid-19 has changed so much of our lives, (finger snap) just like that. But happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, but only if you know when to turn on the lights! (Albus Dumbledore from Harry Potter). Let's all turn our Christmas lights on this year!

 Christmas is a time of peace and joy, so you can see how stuff like this relates to what we're talking about. If the words haven't sunk in yet, then think about this...

 Martin Luther King Jr. was part of a civil rights movement, where a belief in freedom and equality was the primary message. Today, in the neighboring country of the United States, the first woman of colour was elected as Vice-President. So this is the reason peace is so important. It may have taken a long time (and a lot longer than it should have), but people eventually realized that racism and inequality is not okay. Kamala Harris is living proof.

 Prayer: Dear God,  We thank you for Port Williams United Baptist Church, where in our church all people are welcome, regardless of race, colour, gender, or sexual preference. We thank you for the way you guide us to help, to serve, and to stand up for all people. We thank you for your continued love as we learn to do better for all your children. Give us strength and courage to be bold and brave, in the work of peace.    In your name we pray - AMEN.

 Aaron Caines is twelve years old. He lives with his brother Liam, his Mom and Dad, and his dog Rudy. Aaron loves to play the piano, build with his LEGO robotics team, and watch youtube videos. Aaron believes in peace and equality for all.