Today is All Saints Sunday.  Today we remember those who have gone before.  Those who have set an example for us to follow.  Those who have taught us life lessons, taught us the faith; and showed God’s love through their actions, words and deeds.  But most importantly, we celebrate, worship and praise the one who made us saints, Jesus Christ – without whom we would have no hope.  Remember, celebrate and laugh, for this life is just the beginning.

Let us pray…
Tender and merciful God, we have mourned the death of many loved ones; ones who have gone prematurely and those who have passed after great suffering and/or struggling.  And in a lot of cases we still mourn and shed tears over their absence in our lives.  These saints have taught us many lessons about life and about faith.  They showed your love through their words and deeds.  They set an example for us to follow.  But in the midst of this mourning there is joy.  In the midst of the tears there is laughter.  In the midst of the pain there is hope.  Through Jesus Christ we have been given the promise of New Life through the forgiveness of our sins.  And because of this…this life is just the beginning.  Thank, O God, that because of Jesus, weeping only lasts the night, but joy comes in the morning (reference to Psalm 30).  Through Christ’s name we pray…Amen.

God bless you this day and always.

-edh-