To Philip Melanchthon letter 22 - Martin Luther

TO PHILIP MELANCHTHON

Luther excuses the Emperor’s indecision. April 8, 1540.

Grace and peace! You write, dear Philip, that the Emperor has promised a private conference, and I wonder much what it signifies. I believe he does not know himself what to undertake. His heart must have many secret recesses, being placed among so many vipers, which makes it impossible for him to satisfy either party. I often think what I would do were I in the hands of such people. One must pray to God for him. It is truly a marvellous miracle that God has restrained the Emperor’s hand for so long, although the bishops and cardinals have been embittering and stirring him up against us, and for this we ought to thank God. But whatever aspect matters may assume, we can achieve all through prayer. This alone is the almighty queen of human destiny. Therewith we can accomplish everything, and thus maintain what already exists, amend what is defective, patiently put up with the inevitable, overcome what is evil, and preserve all that is good. But the Papists, those despicable creatures, know not what prayer can achieve. For they cannot repent, having stained their hands with Christ’s blood. For

although we poor sinners are still living in the sinful flesh, still we are pure from blood, and hate those bloody men and the god of blood who has them in bondage. I have received your letters, and hope you will receive some. Greet all our people, and say their households are well. We pray for you, and believe we shall be heard. I wish you were home.

Your obedient MARTIN LUTHER . (Schutze.)