For when a Christian is ill, it is not he alone who suffers, but Christ our Savior, in whom the Christian man lives. As Christ Himself says, “What you have done unto the least of my disciples ye have done unto me.” And although this command of Christ refers to the whole human brotherhood — still, it is specially applicable to our brothers in the faith, and above all, must be exercised towards our friends and relatives.
Besides, it is incumbent upon me, with all your Grace’s subjects, to sympathize in all your afflictions, as our head on whom all our prosperity depends.
But I, who for many reasons am entitled to look upon you as my protector, could, in my poverty, find nothing worthy of your acceptance, till my dearest friend, George Spalatin, put it into my head to prepare you a little book of spiritual consolation drawn from the Holy Scriptures.
Therefore I present this booklet (Tafel) to your Grace, which is divided into fourteen chapters. It is not a tablet of silver, but a spiritual one, not to be placed in the churches, but in the heart.
The first part consists of seven meditations upon evil, trial, and disappointment; the second part also contains seven meditations — upon prosperity and things pertaining thereto.
May your Electoral Grace, with your usual princely benignity, graciously receive this my little treatise. And I humbly commend myself to you. Your Electoral Grace’s humble servant,
Martin Luther.
=XLII
TO HERZOG JOHN OF SAXONY
Encouraged by the Elector’s gracious acceptance of his little book, Luther dedicated his large German treatise, Sermon on Good Works, to his brother Prince John.
March 29, 1520.
Most Serene High-born Prince, Gracious Sir. My humble service and poor prayers are ever at your Grace’s disposal.
