Based on the 46th Psalm, Martin Luther’s well known hymn has been called the battle hymn of the Reformation. Translated into nearly every language, it was sung at the funeral of Dwight Eisenhower at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. It was included in National Service of Prayer and Remembrance following 9/11. The powerful words of “A Mighty Fortress is our God” are found inscribed on the tomb of Martin Luther.
As in 1529, the battle remains the same. The evil foe is out to get us “the world’s prince may still scowl fierce as he will” Some times we get caught up in our own efforts to fight evil, only to get knocked down over and over. It seems as though people have tried to rely on their own strength for centuries, but there is nothing humanly possible we can do to defeat the evil one. The songwriter explains: “with might of ours can naught be done”.
“For us fights the Valliant One”, Jesus Christ who has and always will defeat the devil. There is comfort and hope knowing He is our Mighty Fortress. This is brought into focus in a hurry during times like 9/11. Just as importantly, in all our daily struggles we need to clearly identify Him as our “Shield and Weapon.” He will help us get through the evils and temptations. With him we will win the final victory. Thanks to our Lord and Savior, “The Kingdom ours Remaineth”
Lord Jesus,
Ever remind us you are “by our side”. Remind us of the “one little Word” who can defeat the evil around us
-Teri Conrad
As in 1529, the battle remains the same. The evil foe is out to get us “the world’s prince may still scowl fierce as he will” Some times we get caught up in our own efforts to fight evil, only to get knocked down over and over. It seems as though people have tried to rely on their own strength for centuries, but there is nothing humanly possible we can do to defeat the evil one. The songwriter explains: “with might of ours can naught be done”.
“For us fights the Valliant One”, Jesus Christ who has and always will defeat the devil. There is comfort and hope knowing He is our Mighty Fortress. This is brought into focus in a hurry during times like 9/11. Just as importantly, in all our daily struggles we need to clearly identify Him as our “Shield and Weapon.” He will help us get through the evils and temptations. With him we will win the final victory. Thanks to our Lord and Savior, “The Kingdom ours Remaineth”
Lord Jesus,
Ever remind us you are “by our side”. Remind us of the “one little Word” who can defeat the evil around us
-Teri Conrad
Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.
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