The Reformation brought to light some important matters, namely the three “solas,” namely Sola Scriptura, Sola Gratia, and Sola Fide.  The word “sola” means “alone.”  From the Reformation we learn the importance of Scripture Alone when it comes to the source of Christian teaching.  Grace alone reminds us that it is only by God’s grace through the merits of Jesus Christ that we have been saved.  And Faith Alone teaches us that we are saved through our faith, or by believing in Jesus Christ, not by our own works.

So what does that have to do with us today?  In our own Lutheran Church we celebrate the fact that God has blessed us with His authority, the Holy Scriptures, which teach us about Jesus Christ and the truths about what God has done for us.  The Reformation brought to light God’s amazing grace by which He is able to justify the sinner and offering forgiveness by the blood of Jesus Christ, which cleanses us from all sin.  And the Reformation reminded us that it is through our faith in Christ that we receive these wonderful blessings of God’s grace in our lives.  This is not something to take lightly, but to celebrate with gratitude!

May God bless our celebration of the Reformation 500!

– Pastor Bob Hass