Music Notes 1-24

Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott by J.S. Bach, BWV 720

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

This hymn is one of Martin Luther’s most famous, and associated with the Reformation. It is based on psalm 46, but is relevant to psalm 62, our psalm for today. It is considered by some to be the most important hymn ever written (I’d contest this, but understand why that sentiment exists).
A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing,
our present help amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe, doth seek to work us woe,
with craft and power great, and armed with cruel hate,
on earth without an equal.
Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,
but there is one who takes our side, the one of God’s own choosing.
You ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is he
with mighty pow’r to save, victorious o’er the grave,
Christ will prevail triumphant.
God’s word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them, abideth.
The Spirit and the gifts are ours, through Christ, who with us sideth.
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also.
The body they may kill, God’s truth abideth still,
God’s reign endures forever.

Put Peace Into Each Other’s Hands

Put peace into each other’s hand and like a treasure hold it;
protect it like a candle flame, with tenderness enfold it.

Put peace into each other’s hand with loving expectation;
be gentle in your words and ways, in touch with God’s creation.

Put Christ into each other’s hand, he is love’s deepest measure;
in love make peace, give peace a chance and share it like a treasure.