“See how Christ the king abandons possessions, body and life. Learn from this that his kingdom is not of this world. To enjoy the Christian faith here on earth does not mean to have all things in abundance and lack nothing. Look at your king, the Lord Jesus. Of what does he boast? What comfort has he in life? How highly is he praised?
He has nothing but suffering, scorn, and disdain, and he dies in shame. One little thing he has with which to rule. It is his testimony to the truth, the holy gospel. Through this he pours the Holy Spirit into our hearts, forgives sin and bestows the hope of eternal life.
But all these things remain in faith and in the Word. They are not see, nor are they handled. They exist in hope.
All those who know the way of this king and his kingdom willingly bear the cross. For they not only know that Christ, the eternal king, fared in the same way and is thus himself willing and ready to suffer, but they also take comfort in the knowledge that life in the eternal kingdom is full of joy and splendor, even though suffering must be endured on earth.
That makes Christians joyful even in the midst of sorrows and trials.”
Martin Luther Sermons from the year 1545. WA 52:768
