All Saints; Our Saints
AM: Psalm 111, 112 • 2 Esdras 2:42-47 • Hebrews 11:32-10:2
PM: Psalm 148, 150 • Wisdom 5:1-5, 14-16 • Revelation 21:1-4, 22-22:1-5
The author of Hebrews gives us an exhortation to faith, even in times of trial and torture. He commends heroes of the Hebrew tradition—some who triumphed and some who were tortured and killed. They were faithful to the end even though during their lifetimes they did not see or obtain the promise that we enjoy, the gift and power of the resurrection of Jesus.
His final example is Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.”
The strength we are given to persevere in hope during times of pain, suffering, and grief is the strength of the resurrection. We join our struggles to those who have gone before and are inspired by their good example. We offer our suffering to God in union with Christ’s cross, trusting that God will use our loss as God used the cross of Jesus for the healing of the world. What God does best is resurrection.
Who are those who are heroes for you? Who inspires your best effort, your best faith? When I was struggling to develop a regular habit of prayer, I read how then-President Jimmy Carter made time each day for his Bible study. I thought, if the President of the United States can find time for daily prayer and study, so can I.
One of my heroes was the priest of the church of my childhood. Duncan Gray, Jr. spoke out on controversial things during the racial tensions of that day, and he gently accepted the criticism that came his way from his friends who disagreed with him.
One of my favorite teachers lived her entire life with severe pain and disfigurement from an accident during her teens. She was an inspiration.
We all have people who inspire us to face our sufferings, pains and challenges. They are all our saints.
Written by Lowell Grisham
Lowell Grisham is helping St. Thomas, Springdale while they search for a new priest.