Something from ... Luther on this 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation

This day marks the 500th anniversary of the day Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses to the Castle Church door in Wittenberg.  This is usually considered the event that kindled the Lutheran Reformation.  This momentary event was years in the making, and years of study, struggle, prayer, preaching, debating, writing, etc. continued well after October 31, 1517.


It is fitting to consider a comment from Martin Luther on this date.  And while there are so many valuable quotations to choose from, I submit this one to you for your consideration on this Reformation Day--500 years to the day when Martin Luther dared to question the practices which had invaded Christ's Church and directed people away from Christ. 


Luther's only goal was direct people to Jesus Christ whose life, sufferings, death, and resurrection had given him such solid assurance and enduring comfort for his own salvation.  It was an assurance and comfort he yearned for others to know as well.  With that in mind, I offer this from Martin Luther.


“Therefore, my dear Friar, learn Christ and him crucified.  Learn to praise him and, despairing of yourself, say, “'Lord Jesus, you are my righteousness, just as I am your sin.  You have taken upon yourself what is mine and have given to me what is yours. You have taken upon yourself what you were not and have given to me what I was not.'”
Martin Luther, Luther's Works: American Edition, Volume 48, p 12

This is the door frame of the Castle Church where Luther posted his 95 Theses.
The current doors are brass with the 95 Theses embossed on them.  The original wooden doors burned years ago.