All Hallow's Eve, 1517

It was on this day in the year 1517 Martin Luther posted his 95 thesis upon the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. You can read more about this world changing moment in history by clicking here. Why am I blogging about this instead of my usual posts on the Daily Lectionary? It was on this day that the Protestant Reformation began, and those of us that are Protestant (i.e., Methodist, Baptist, any other non Roman Catholic denomination) trace our beginnings to this. Luther felt like the Church had drifted too far and needed to be reformed. He had the courage to begin this process, and through it, the Protestant movement was born, and the Catholic church was reformed.

But, for this to happen, he had to have the courage of his convictions, and do what he felt was right. Quite often, we feel called by God to something, but the challenge seems to be too great for us, so we beg off. Much like Moses with God, I can't speak, send someone else. But, if God is calling you, He will give you what you need.

In spite of great opposition, Luther stood for what he believed. In spite of great opposition, he would not back down. In spite of great opposition, he stood with the power of his convictions. Today, he is an inspiration for each that knows we have seen wrong and can abide by it no more. And, we must stand.

And, one of the 95 thesis (or statements) that he posted was the notion that each of us can go to God, and each of us can interpret the scriptures. I always here folks talk about how tragic it is that on election day, so few folks vote, after all that has been given to give folks the right to vote, all the blood that was shed. I feel the same way about the Word. Do you realize how many folks died and were persecuted to ensure that you and I can read the word each day? Do we take for granted what has been given us in this holy gift?

Luther suffered so that we can stand on the truth of God's Word and go to Him. He stood for what was right, despite the jeers from the crowd. Today, will we do the same?