February 2016 – Song of the Month
A Mighty Fortress is Our God
Martin Luther
Public Domain
Based from Psalms 46, Martin Luther wrote this widely known hymn. This hymn dates back to somewhere between 1527 and 1529. It was translated into English around 1853. Martin Luther has been credited with 36 hymns, this one being the most widely known. This hymn has been called the “Battle Hymn of the Reformation”. It has been sung in over 170 languages. Luther took a stand when it was very dangerous, he put his life on the line for this belief. The words are meant to inspire his followers that no matter how dire the situation is, don’t lose hope.
A bulwark is defined as a defensive wall, very strong and as Luther put it “never failing”. It’s sometimes hard to remember when tough times are upon us, but in all cases, A Mighty Fortress is Our God.
“A mighty fortress is our God, A bulwark never failing;
Our shelter He, amid the flood Of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and pow’r are great, And, armed with cruel hate,
For still our ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and pow’r are great, And, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal…”
-Ryan
ryanleelejeune.com 
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