To Anton Unruhe, Lawyer in Torgau - Martin Luther

TO ANTON UNRUHE, LAWYER IN TORGAU

Luther thanks him for procuring justice for a poor woman. June 15, 1538.

Grace and peace in Christ, dear wise sir and friend! Timete Dominum, erudimini, judices terrae. This should be the daily motto of the judge, and I believe it is yours, for all who know you testify that you are a pious, Christian judge. I must thank you for helping Margaretha Doroten in preventing the noble Hans from depriving her of all she has. You know that Dr. Martin is not only theologian and defender of the faith, but defender of the rights of the poor, who flee to him from every quarter seeking help and letters to the magistrates, so that he would have enough to do with only this. But Dr. Martin serves the poor gladly, as you also do, for you fear God, love Jesus Christ, and search the Scriptures daily. The Lord Jesus will one day reward you for this. But was it not enough to prove your love to me by granting my request without presenting me with a cask of Torgau beer of your own brewing? I am unworthy of your kindness, for although I know you are not poor, God having given you abundance, still I would rather you had given it to your poor people, whose united prayers would have brought down a richer blessing upon you than that of poor Martin alone. But I must thank you for the token of goodwill. And may God reward you.

MARTIN LUTHER . WITTENBERG. (De Wette.)