Katherine, the wife of Martin Luther, dramatically revived the depressed Reformer’s confidence in God’s providence. This has been versified by F. W. Herzberger:

One day when skies loomed the blackest,
     This greatest and bravest of men
Lost heart and in an oversad spirit
     Refused to take courage again,

Neither eating or drinking nor speaking
     To anxious wife, children or friends,
Till Katherine dons widow garments
     And deepest of mourning pretends.

Surprised, Luther asked why she sorrowed.
     “Dear Doctor,” his Katie replied,
“I have cause for the saddest of weeping,
     For God in His heaven has died!”

Her gentle rebuke did not fail him,
     He laughingly kissed his wise spouse,
Took courage, and banished his sorrow,
     And joy again reigned in the house.