Every generation has a defining event that causes its view of the world to change. Recently, memories of these events have come rushing back with the 50th anniversary of the death of John F. Kennedy. The operative question has become, "Where were you when JFK was shot?" Each generation can name their event, whether it's Columbine, 9/11, The Great Depression, or another event.
For Martin Luther, the events surrounding the fund raising tactics of his Roman Catholic Church caused him to question his view of the world. He found solace in Psalm 46, that which served as inspiration for the quintessential hymn "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." Though Luther's view of the world was changing, his faith in God was bolstered. Luther did not retreat from action as he discovered a God who loved him. Despite facing a church that sometimes violently opposed his views, Luther became more resolute in teaching faith in Christ for generations to come. Among other things, he translated the Bible into the language of the people, and developed a simple book to help teach faith at home.
When our view of the world is shaken, it is tempting to retreat. But if we know that God is always with us, as communicated in Psalm 46, we need not fear to act boldly in compassion, mercy, and grace on behalf of our neighbor.
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