LBW #228, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"
Devotion
Were they to take our house,
Goods, honor, child, or spouse,
Though life be wrenched away,
They cannot win the day.
The Kingdom’s ours forever!
While cradling our beloved month-old daughter in my arms, I robustly sang “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” until these words of the last verse. With emotions and thoughts tumbling, I stopped singing. Did I believe that God’s kingdom was indeed that glorious? Could I ever handle that kind of sacrifice? As my arms tightened around Sarah, tears filled my eyes as I whispered my answer to God. “No, I cannot make such a commitment.” I turned and walked out of the sanctuary.
By ourselves, we cannot muster that kind of faith. However, God does give it to us. In the remaining words of this verse, a promise of help and strength in facing trials and tribulations shines forth.
For God himself fights by our side
With weapons of the Spirit.
Prayer
When we encounter fear, pain, loneliness, and doubt, O God, fortify us with your hopeful promise, gracious presence, and mighty power. Amen.
"A Mighty Fortress is Our God"
Text: Martin Luther, translation Copyright 1978 Lutheran Book of Worship, admin. Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. Reprinted under OneLicense.net #A-703924.