PATRIOTS IN GOD’S KINGDOM –

Pilgrims not only faced obstacles and dangerous stretches along the highway on their journey to the Holy City of God, but also had to guard themselves against the possibility of letting the lure of worldly influence and power cause them to become sidetracked and complacent about their faith and continuing their passage. So the compilers of the Psalter wanted to include a Song of Ascent that reminded the pilgrims of God’s promises and His provisions to those who remain faithful and true to their calling. They wanted the pilgrims to know that real success cannot be credited to anyone who does not finish the race; does not complete their mission; or does not prove trustworthy. It is the good and faithful servant who is invited into the eternal kingdom to co-reign with the KING of kings.

“Those who absolutely trust the LORD Eternal are as immovable as a mountain; they are as solid as a rock. Yes, just like the Holy City of God has mountains that surround it, so the LORD Eternal will encircle His children from now into eternity. And He will never allow the ungodly to become leaders of the community of believers, thus keeping those who live right from becoming defensive and commit offensive acts. O LORD Eternal, we ask You to be good to those who are good to others; those who have kind and descent hearts. The LORD Eternal will deal with those who go back to a life of sin; He may march them off to judgment with other sinners. But let the believer walk in His blessed assurance.” Psalm 125:1-5

Reflection: After prayer and consultation with friends, the great reformer Martin Luther presented himself before the German Imperial Diet – Legislative Assembly – on Wednesday, April 17, 1521, in the city of Worms, Germany. He stood accused of being a heretic by Pope Leo III, and was ordered to stand trial. The moderator, a well-known theologian named Johann Maier von Eck, asked Luther if he still believed in the things he wrote concerning the church’s role in salvation. Taking a deep breath, Luther looked his accusers in the eyes and stated boldly without flinching, “Unless I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason – I do not accept the authority of the popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other – my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. God help me! Amen.” A few weeks later, on Saturday, May 25^th, in his Edict of Worms, Emperor Charles V declared Luther to be an outlaw to the church and its teachings. Today, few people, if any, remember anything about Charles V, but around the world believers celebrate the courage of Martin Luther, and look to him as a champion of freedom from ecclesiastical powers that use their position of influence and authority to take away salvation they cannot grant. The psalmist never gave doubt or compromises a thought; he wants to remain solid and unmovable in his faith, just as God was solid and unmovable in His promises. Both the psalmist and Luther present us with awe inspiring examples of commitment in its finest and most heroic form. Ask yourself this question, “If my enemies accuse me of being a Christian so committed to God’s Word and will, that I would never compromise my faith for any reason or guaranteed advantage, will I be found innocent or guilty?”