When asked by his barber and good friend, Peter Beskendorf, for some practical guidance on how to prepare oneself for prayer, Luther responded by writing this brief treatise, first published in the spring of 1535. After 500 years, his instruction continues to offer words of spiritual nurture for us today.
Martin Luther (1483-1546) was a German theologian and author. Luther instigated the Protestant Reformation when he posted his Ninety-five Theses at the Castle Church in Wittenberg in 1517, and his influence continues into the present day.