On this Juneteenth, are you a thermometer or a thermostat?

On this Juneteenth, are you a thermometer or a thermostat?

Martin Luther King Jr. often used the analogy of a “thermostat” versus a “thermometer” to describe the role of individuals in society. A thermometer passively records the temperature, while a thermostat actively works to regulate and change it. He spoke about the Church being a thermostat, not just a thermometer, meaning it should actively work to transform society, not just reflect its existing conditions.

Thermometer: A thermometer passively reflects the temperature of its environment, it doesn’t influence it.

Thermostat: A thermostat actively regulates the environment, aiming for a desired temperature and taking action to achieve that.

MLK Jr.’s Perspective: In his Letter from Birmingham Jail, MLK Jr. wrote about the church’s role, arguing that it should be a thermostat, transforming society, rather than just a thermometer reflecting prevailing attitudes.

Actively Changing Society: This analogy emphasizes the importance of being proactive and actively working to create positive change, rather than simply reacting to the status quo.

So, on this Juneteenth, are you a thermometer or a thermostat?

Shalom, Paul