Thursday, October 17, 2013
Matthew 16:21 From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem ...
THOUGH DEVILS ALL THE WORLD SHOULD FILL!
On April 2, 1521, two days after Easter, Luther left Wittenberg for Worms. The little procession was led by the Emperor's herald, and his traveling companions included Dr. Amsdorf, who had no safe conduct. Martin never forgot him for this support.
Although the herald reported that the journey was like a triumphal procession, with many coming out from cities and convents to greet Dr. Luther along the way, there were also many things to hinder him. At Eisenach, where he preached, he became gravely ill. He was bled and given a sedative to help him sleep. The illness accompanied him the rest of the way to Worms.
At Oppenheim, he was invited to make a detour to Ebernberg, where the emperor's chaplain wanted to speak with him privately. Luther declined. Had he fallen for it, his safe conduct would have expired, and he could have been killed before ever getting to Worms.
When friend Spalatin sent advice not to come since the elector didn't think he could protect him, Luther replied, "I'll go on to Worms if there are as many devils there as tiles on the roofs."
After all, Luther knew that his (and our) dear Savior had pushed on to Jerusalem where He knew betrayal, torture, death, and resurrection awaited. All this Jesus faced to save us! This moved His servant Luther to continue on to Worms to proclaim the forgiveness and salvation which Christ won for all. Thanks be to God!
Though devils all the world should fill,
All eager to devour us,
We tremble not, we fear no ill,
They shall not overpower us.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 262:3)
