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Saint...
“Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name, among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;
To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints”
Romans 1:5-7
This week we reflect on what’s known as All Saints Day (1st November). This day is a Christian celebration in honour of all the saints from Christian history past and present. Sainthood isn't given by a group of religious leaders. It's granted by God Himself. Saints, in the New Testament, are never deceased individuals who have been canonized by the church and given sainthood. They are living individuals who have dedicated themselves to the worship and service of the one true God as revealed through his Son, Jesus Christ.
So, how should we think of All Saints Day? Well, the 1662 Book of Common Prayer says that the day stands for “the unity of Christians of all ages, countries, and races in Christ, and the perfection of that unity in heaven". Saint is not a designation given by a group of people but rather an honour bestowed by God on all who are faithful followers of Jesus.
Richard Rohr beautifully articulates this as follows as he reminds us that,” All Saints Day, remind us that many have come before us and many will come after. We stand on shoulders and lay tracks. We honour legacies and correct the error of their ways. We look for resemblances, pass on stories, shake the trunks of the human family tree, hoping for a glimpse of what we once were, what we hope to become”.
So, how can we respond to All Saints Day? It may be helpful to read the stories of those who a celebrated as saints and glean from their life, lessons that may send you on a trajectory of discovery and faith. You may want to consider current living followers of Jesus who are setting a great example of a life of faith and devotion to God. Christians are saints by virtue of their connection with Jesus Christ. Christians are called to be saints, to increasingly allow their daily life to more closely match their position in Christ.
Jeremy Smith
(Bishops Prep and Pre-Prep Youth Pastor) |
