We give you thanks, O God, for the saints who have borne witness to your Word throughout the ages. We give special thanks for your servant Martin Luther King, Jr., who responded to your voice to serve and who gave his life for the cause of love and justice, especially in this country.

By your grace, give us what we need to respond with the depth of commitment, that will enable us and free us, to give of ourselves in full measure, even to the point of death.

By your Holy Spirit guide and direct us, that we may feel the call to serve your people. Keep us strong so we do not tire of doing good in the face of wrong and evil. Use us as instruments of your peace so that we can continue to work for a nation shaped by justice, love, and relationship all deeply rooted in you.

Inspire our hearts, strengthen our wills, build up our resolve that we may become worthy of the heritage that has been given to us in the witness of Martin Luther King, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.