International Day of Justice and Service

Submitted by ub on

On June 12, 2013 the world will mark a half-century since Medgar Wiley Evers was assassinated for pursuing his pioneering vision for civil rights across Mississippi, across our nation and, indeed, across our world.

Medgar Evers believed that individuals could achieve whatever their God given abilities allowed, regardless of the color of their skin. He was an example, as well as an advocate, and possessed a strong conviction that everyone be treated with respect and dignity. He was committed to educating the world and letting us know that we all have the responsibility and the opportunity to make this world gentler and better.

Medgar Evers possessed a deep faith in God and the promise of America. And what is faith? Our Bible tells us that faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. So Mr Evers fixed his eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

That is why, this 50th anniversary commemoration is not in sorrow, but with celebration and optimism, recognizing the progress we have made and the opportunities to advance our shared journey toward a more equal and perfect union and a better world.

Medgar Evers believed in the spirit of unity, that all brethren must work together to ensure peace among them. For it is written in Romans 14:19 “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another”.

Medgar Evers believed, that all who struggled against racial intolerance; all who fought against bigotry; all who protested educational, economic and social inequities did so out of a desire to uphold all that God has promised. 2 Corinthians 13:11 instructs us to “..be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you”.

On Sunday, June 9, 2013, Medgar Evers Sunday, share this message of faith and unity as we honor and celebrate Medgar Evers… fifty years later. Let each of us be that ‘army of one’ who will help our community, our state, our nation and our world be one united in faith and, indeed, in love.

Honor his Life. Live his Legacy. Thank you for remembering Medgar. May God Bless!