Black Voices Sermon Roundup: Readying For Change Both Political And Personal

Welcome to this week's BlackVoices Sermon Roundup!

This week, Pastor Nicholas Richards of Harlem's Abyssinian Baptist Church goes down to Zuccotti Park, the site of the Occupy Wall Street protests, and is reminded of the sacrifice and dedication required of those seeking change. "Before Israel marched around Jericho's walls, everyone was told to examine themselves, to ensure their commitment to the struggle," Stuart says. "Wall Street will not fall easily. Therefore, each protestor must take personal inventory, making sure they can commit to — and be ready for — change."

Rev. Michael Waters, the pastor of Joy Tabernacle in Dallas, also tackles the life of a change agent — specifically Martin Luther King's. "In his final book... Dr. King called for the immediate elimination of poverty and for a guaranteed living income for all American citizens," Waters writes. "Dr. King advocated for the elimination of debts against poor foreign governments," he notes, before asking "Is that the man that America sees?"

What inspired you this week? What lessons did you learn from your family, friends, or spiritual leaders?