Today I write with no glib words, no zany humor, and no flowery expressions. I write with sobriety and solemnity. Today…I call on all of us to remember.

Today is April 8. I want to take you back to another April 8, on a Sunday, exactly 68 years ago. It is 1945, and although their end is rapidly approaching, for the moment the National Socialists still reign supreme in Germany.

In your mind’s eye see a prisoner, a German man incarcerated in a German prison. He has a squarish face, rather common looking. His rimless glasses help give him an ordinary look. He seems so average. Yet, his appearance belies the uniqueness, indeed, the brilliance of the man.

Although a political prisoner, a prisoner of conscience (these words have never been applied more truly), this man is also a Christian—and a pastor. He has gathered about him in Schoenberg Prison a group of faithful believers to worship and study together.

This imprisoned church has just finished its Sunday morning worship. The pastor has just said the final “Amen.” Suddenly two soldiers appear at the door. They call out the pastor’s name and deliver an order: “Make ready and come with us.” The small group of believers looks at their pastor with a mixture of terror and compassion in their eyes. They know the meaning of these words. This is the standard summons issued to a condemned prisoner.

The pastor rises and prepares to leave with the soldiers. However, just before he exits, he turns and says to one of his flock: “This is the end—but for me, the beginning—of life.” Moving words from a deeply spiritual man.

The next day, Monday, April 9, 1945, the pastor is executed by hanging. Continue reading →