February 18--A Poem on the Anniversary of Luther's Death

Martin Luther, born on November 10, 1483, in Eisleben, Germany, died on February 18, 1546, while visiting the town of his birth.

Here is a poem commemorating his life:

Where Luther Stood
(from the Castle Church, Wittenberg)

Through this doorway Luther walked,
and on these very stones he stepped!
This is where he sang and talked,
and here’s his tomb where Katie wept.

From this pulpit Luther preached:
“God’s Word alone reveals His will.”
To our day this truth has reached,
and in these halls it echoes still.

Luther learned these truths from Paul:
“In Christ alone God’s love is known.”
“All who hear the Gospel call
Receive God’s gifts through faith alone.”

Here was Luther bold to say
“By grace alone God counts us good.”
Why is it so hard today
To take a stand where Luther stood?

– Gilbert A. Franke, Aug 2008