"To his conscience bound, he would not recant"

Today I watched "Martin Luther," starring Joseph Fiennes. It was outstanding; a very well-done, and a powerful portrayal of Luther's struggle for Truth. He is a true hero of the faith. While there is much church history to be ashamed of, Luther's courage and faith have impacted the world in unimaginable ways. Watching the film gave new meaning to my favorite verse in Sandra McCracken's ballad "Age after Age." I had planned to post just that verse, but the entire song merits publicity. Download the song here (expires in 7 days).

On the edge of the river
the mighty Mississippi
Two boys spent their summer
on the banks by the levy

When the water and burst the dam
they were swallowed in a wave of sand
They pulled the younger one out by the hand
standing on his brother's shoulders

One nation under God
Young and proud she stumbles
With a trail of tears
left by those who were outnumbered

She said, this land is your land this land is mine
unless you are an Indian
But a higher ground we have tried to find
standing on their shoulders

Age after age
Heroes and soldiers
it gives me sight and makes me break
Standing on their shoulders

One man in the shadows
of the whitewashed cathedral
He tried to pull the system
through the eye of a needle

To his conscience bound, he would not recant
for the freedom of the saints
and Truth is Truth is Truth
we are standing on his shoulders

Age after age
Heroes and soldiers
it gives me sight and makes me break
We are standing on their shoulders

Now to the ones left behind
who are picking up the pieces
of planes, bombs and buildings
of innocence and evil
Cause when the news and noise and flowers die
and you still wake up alone
There is a god who knows every tear you cry
and this world is on His shoulders

Age after age
Heroes and soldiers
it gives me sight and makes me break
Standing on their shoulders

Tags: Luther, Martin Luther, Sandra McCracken