…as the Vietnam war raged on, in light of the empty promises and limited progress following the 1963 march on Washington, King’s political consciousness developed rapidly. Taking up the best message of Christianity and taking to heart the cries of poor, unemployed and underemployed, Dr. King spoke and marched for the dignity of labor and against the insanity, racism, and barbarity of war. It was for this re-dedication to the noble cause, as explained in the parable of Good Samaritan, that cost Dr. King his life.
On April 4, 1967, exactly one year before he was assassinated, Dr. King spoke at the Riverside Church in New York City. His talk, titled “Beyond Vietnam” was first and foremost a reflection on what he felt compelled to do as an adherent of the teachings of Jesus. More significantly, King laid out his understanding of what needed to happen immediately as a formula for peace.
A great man. May people continue to hear his words.
Comment by captmathman — January 17, 2007 @ 1:14 pm