“God is our refuge and strength, a very present[a] help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear.” (Psalm 46:1-2)

"Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us…Music is a gift and grace of God, not an invention of men. Thus it drives out the devil and makes people cheerful." (Martin Luther)

A prominent figure in the Protestant Church, Martin Luther was a German priest, theologian, author, hymnwriter, professor, and Augustinian friar. Born to a miner father who aspired for him to study law, Luther's life took a pivotal turn when, at the age of twenty-one, he survived a violent thunderstorm and made a vow to become a monk if he lived. True to his word, Luther entered an Augustinian monastery and was ordained as a priest two years later.

In 1510, Luther made a 1,000-mile pilgrimage to Rome and therein, after witnessing the sale of “indulgences” and began the great questions and stirrings of reform. Moved by his conscience and a newfound understanding of God's love, Luther penned the Ninety-five Theses, a list of grievances against the church's practices. His actions led to confrontations with the church hierarchy and ultimately his excommunication by the Pope.

Despite facing opposition, Luther remained steadfast in his convictions, famously declaring, "Here I stand, I can do no other," refusing to recant his beliefs even when threatened with punishment: "Unless I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason - I do not accept the authority of the popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other - my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Help me, O God.” His actions catalyzed the Protestant Reformation, reshaping Europe and paving the way for the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages, including German.

This year marks the 506th anniversary of Luther's historic stand. Luther is said to be the “Father of the Protestant Reformation,” a movement that also includes Reformation precursors such as John Wycliffe, as well as other Reformation leaders like John Calvin, John Knox.. Luther was also a musician and a composer. He composed about thirty chorales. The most famous one is “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” which continues to inspire believers around the world. He died Feb.18, 1546 with his last words: “We are beggars. This is true.”

Pastor Seok-Hwan

REFLECTION AND PRAYER:

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

1. A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;

our helper he amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.

For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;

his craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate,

on earth is not his equal.

2. Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,

were not the right man on our side, the man of God's own choosing. Dost ask who that may be?

Christ Jesus, it is he; Lord Sabaoth, his name,

from age to age the same, and he must win the battle.

3. And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us, we will not fear, for God hath willed

his truth to triumph through us. The Prince of Darkness grim,

we tremble not for him; his rage we can endure,

for lo, his doom is sure; one little word shall fell him.

4. That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth;

the Spirit and the gifts are ours, thru him who with us sideth.

Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;

the body they may kill;

God's truth abideth still; his kingdom is forever.

Lyrics:Martin Luther (1483-1546)

Translated by Frederick H. Hedge (1805)

Music:Martin Luther