To such knowledge (I say) God has graciously called you. You possess God’s seal and letter of this [calling], namely, the gospel you hear preached, baptism, and the sacrament of the altar, so that you should have no trouble or danger. Only be of good cheer and thank [God] joyfully for such great grace! For he who has begun [his work] in you will also graciously complete it, since we are unable to help ourselves in such matters. We are unable to accomplish anything against sin, death, and the devil by our own works. Therefore, another appears for us and in our stead who definitely can do better; he gives us his victory, and commands us to accept it and not to doubt it. He says: “Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”; and again: “I live, and you will live also, and no one will take your joy from you.”
The Father and God of all consolation grant you, through his holy Word and Spirit, a steadfast, joyful, and grateful faith blessedly to overcome this and all other trouble, and finally to taste and experience that what he himself says is true: “Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” And with this I commend your body and soul to his mercy. Amen.
All your children and my Katie pray for you; some weep, others say at dinner: “Grandmother is very sick.” God’s grace be with us all. Amen. Your loving son, Martin Luther May 20, 1531 (Luther’s Works, v. 50, p.21)