By Tyler Marz, disciple formation specialist

For the mountains shall depart and the hills be removed, but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.

[Excerpted from “When We Gather,” Advent and Christmas 2025 Resource]

This discussion is based on Rev. Dr. King’s final address, “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop,” delivered on 3 April 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee, USA.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final address is one of hope spoken in the midst of difficulty. He begins by imagining himself moving through the centuries as a witness to their struggles and triumphs: the Hebrew people’s exodus from Egypt, the questions of ancient Greek philosophers, the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the flourishing of the Renaissance and Enlightenment, the abolition of slavery, the hardships of the Great Depression, and finally, his own time in the Civil Rights Movement. In each of these moments, darkness preceded light, struggle preceded change. As King reminds us, “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.”

Stars symbolize hope—their brilliance revealed most clearly against a darkened sky. Darkness becomes the backdrop that allows us to notice what might otherwise remain hidden. Waiting is often part of this darkness: the long night before morning, the uncertainty before clarity, the pause before transformation. Waiting is rarely easy, but in its stillness, we can sometimes perceive what busyness or brightness conceal.

For centuries, stars have guided travelers. Though always present, they are visible only in the dark. In the same way, when life feels heavy, signs of love, support, and direction may emerge. These glimpses of hope do not erase difficulty, but they help orient us, reminding us that hardship is never the whole story.

On a personal level, seasons of grief, illness, or transition can feel isolating. Yet, over time, small moments of beauty or kindness can shine through. In times of social or communal crisis, the weight of injustice can feel overwhelming—but even then, acts of justice, compassion, and solidarity often appear with greater clarity. Darkness sharpens our vision, and in it we may discover what we value most.

King’s words do not deny the reality of darkness, even if it is overwhelming. Instead, they affirm that the dark is not empty. It is a place where hope, promise, direction, and beauty may be revealed in ways we would otherwise never see. What “stars” have you noticed in your own dark seasons?

Prayer Phrase

“I bring you good news that will cause great joy” (Luke 2:10).

Kindling the Light

Choose a quiet spot where you can sit comfortably. Place a candle or small light in front of you. Take a few slow breaths, letting the noise of the day settle. Light the candle. As you strike the match or switch on the light, say softly:
“I make room for joy to grow within me.
I make room for the light that connects me to others.
I make room for the Spirit of Christ.”
Pause for a few breaths, letting the glow of the light fill your awareness.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.