Page:Luther's correspondence and other contemporary letters 1507-1521.djvu/26



Greeting in Christ Jesus our Lord. I should fear, most gentle friend, to trouble your kindness by an importunate letter, did I not consider your heartfelt affection for me proved by the many benefits you have conferred upon me. Wherefore, relying on our mutual friendship, I do not hesitate to send this letter, which I am sure will find you attentive and affable.

God, glorious and holy in all his works, has deigned to exalt me, wretched and unworthy sinner, and to call me into his sublime ministry, only for his mercy's sake. I ought to be thankful for the glory of such divine goodness (as much as dust may be) and to fulfil the duty laid upon me. Rh