A Mighty fortress

Reformation theologian Martin Luther wrote the music and text of this hymn around 1527. The words include a paraphrase of Psalm 46:1-2, 7, 11:
  
     God is our refuge and strength,
     a very present help in trouble.
     Therefore we will not fear . . . 
     The Lord of hosts is with us;
     the God of Jacob is our fortress.
 
Luther’s original tune, EIN FESTE BURG, was basically the same as the familiar melody found in hymnals today. However, the original version, featured a sturdier, more lively rhythm. Various versions of Luther’s original German text can be found, but the translation most commonly used today was written by Unitarian pastor Frederick Hedge in 1853.

In Luther’s day, this great hymn would have served as a reminder of the importance of standing for the faith, particularly living by the commands of scripture, rather than man-made ideas and rules. For believers in the 21st century, it reminds us that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Eph. 6:12). No matter what events may unfold in the news cycle, no matter our own personal struggles, we know the end of the story! We are on the winning side! Christ defeated all our foes when He died and rose again. His kingdom is forever!