This week we focused on the famous Reformation hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” written by Martin Luther around 1529. On October 31, 1517, Luther nailed on the church door in Wittenberg, Germany, 95 theses or complaints. It was a way for calling for a public forum to discuss these issues. The printing press was newly invented and so these 95 statements went to press. Catholicism was the dominant Christian version of faith and to question the Pope was radical. These statements crystalized into four basic “alone” statements that came to symbolize the Protestant Reformation.
- Faith alone (no need to buy indulgences)
- Christ alone (no need to go through the saints to God)
- Word alone (Scripture over tradition for truth)
- Grace alone (salvation is gift, not earned)
We will look at these four pillars of Protestantism next week and ponder how they strengthen our faith walk.
Spend a few minutes today reflecting on these four points – the role of faith, the role of Christ, the role of Scripture, and the importance of grace. Then listen to a Mighty Fortress.
Luther went on to translate the Bible into German, the people’s language in his area and we are recipients of that movement. Many of us are gifted to be able to read the Word in our mother tongue. We have much to be thankful for as we head into this next week. Perhaps you could name now one thing for each of the four areas. I love my confirmation verse Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, I am with you, do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Thank you Lord for that Scripture! Do you have a favorite scripture verse, a favorite faith memory, a memory of grace unexpected and what is one word you would use to describe who Christ is to you? Blessings.
On the Way to Wonder 