Gerhard and Walther

He is the first and only-begotten of His mother here on earth, who according to His divine nature is the first and only-begotten of His Father in heaven.—Johann Gerhard, Sacred Meditation XIV

Let us not be content with the mere appearance of Christianity, but present ourselves to the Lord as we are. Let us, as poor sinners, daily fall at His feet, seek salvation with earnestness, follow Christ from our hearts, and serve Him. Thus He will one day recognize us as His own.—C. F. W. Walther, God Grant It!, p. 802, 3.