Day 37 — Christ’s Passion, by Martin Luther

Wednesday, April 4, 2007

God’s Word

“Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same intention (for whoever has suffered in the flesh has finished with sin.” - 1 Peter 4:1

Christ’s Suffering

First of all, you must no longer contemplate the suffering of Christ (for this has already done its work and terrified you), but pass beyond that and see his friendly heart and how this heart beats with such love for you that it impels him to bear with pain your conscience and your sin. Then your heart will be filled with love for him, and the confidence of your faith will be strengthened.

After your hearts has thus become firm in Christ, and love, not fear of pain, has made you a foe of sin, then Christ’s passion must from that day on become a pattern for your entire life. If pain or sickness afflicts you, consider how paltry this is in comparison with the thorny crown and nails of Christ.

If you are obliged to do or to refrain from doing things against your wishes, ponder how Christ was bound and captured and led hither and yon. If you are beset by pride, see how your Lord was mocked and ridiculed along with criminals.

If unchastity and lust assail you, remember how ruthlessly Christ’s tender flesh was scourged, pierced and beat. If hatred, envy and vindictiveness best you, recall that Christ, who indeed had more reason to avenge himself, interceded with tears and cries for you and for all his enemies.

So then, this is how we can draw strength and encouragement from Christ against every vice and failing. That is a proper contemplation of Christ’s passion and such are its fruits.” — Martin Luther, Luther Works 42, 13-14

Prayer… May out dear Lord Jesus Christ show you his hands and his side and gladden your heart with his love, and may you behold and hear only him until you find your joy in him. Amen. — Martin Luther, Letters, 117