A diamond is an enduring symbol of love and prestige. With its unique ability to reflect light in mesmerizing explosions, it’s no wonder why many are drawn towards them! From the whispered exclamations that follow a bride on her wedding day (You must be loved!) to hushed queries about affordability – something is spellbinding about these precious stones. But someone wise once said: “It takes a great deal of courage and character to transform from raw stone into something truly magnificent – just like becoming an exemplary human being. So I often say, “Everybody wants to be a diamond, but only some are willing to go through the cutting process.

Dr. Martin Luther King was one of these individuals who went through the cutting and pressure to become the diamond we celebrate on this day. Dr. King was indeed a precious diamond that changed the lives of many. As we reflect on his life and legacy this day, let’s remember the core of this man. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once famously said, “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” A diamond is a perfect analogy for this thought – no two are the same, and they all require a great deal of courage and character to transform from raw stone into something truly magnificent. Dr. Martin Luther King believed that greatness lies within us all, and diamonds remind us just how powerful we can become if we strive for excellence. With their sparkling beauty and light-reflecting ability, diamonds offer a visual metaphor for those who aspire to reach peak potential in life, standing proudly as symbols of achievement, power, love, and prestige.

Whether we accept it or not, the truth is that diamonds are made through extreme pressure and hardships. Similarly, we must also brave our struggles to become the best version of ourselves – those cuts may be painful, but they will ultimately give us the strength and luster needed to shine brightly. Martin Luther King knew this better than anyone – he was willing to give his life in pursuit of a greater good, knowing full well that his dream would come true as we persevered through great difficulty. The same can be said for our journey towards greatness: no matter how hard it may seem, never forget why we started and never give up on ourselves. Allow Jesus to do what only He can do.

Jesus said in John 15:2, “Every branch in me that does not produce fruit he removes, and he prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit.” So, embrace the work of the Holy Spirit and allow it to work through us. Martin Luther King’s life and words offer just the reminder that what lies ahead is worth it – no matter how difficult it may be, the transformation can bring out something beautiful if we keep pushing for it.

So, let us remember Martin Luther King’s advice and use our struggles as opportunities to become diamonds of virtue – courageously embracing adversity and diversity and allowing our faith to guide our steps. Let us strive for greatness in whatever God has called us to do, never forgetting that obstacles are there only to strengthen us as we learn how best to honor our Lord with whatever He’s entrusted us. Breakthroughs come with effort, so don’t give up. Martin Luther King’s dream reminds us that diamonds are made through extreme pressure — and so are we. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run, then walk, if you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”

As a diamond must go through cutting and pressure to become beautiful, so is the process of reaching our full potential as a convention of churches. But, despite the hardships, the cutting, and the pressure, it will all be worth it in the end. So, it’s time to start shining!