Part 1 of 2
Daily Office Readings for All Saints Day
AM: Psalms 111, 112; 2 Esdras 2:42to47; Hebrews 11:32to10:2; PM: Psalms 148, 150; Wisdom 5:1to5and 14-16; Revelation 21:1to4 and verse 22to22:1to5
“Light shines in the darkness for the upright; the righteous are merciful and full of compassion.” (Psalm 112: 4)
While there are many readings for All Saints Day, I think this verse of Psalm 112 really captures the essence of what the saints are about. Remember, Paul called all believers in every place, saints. And, we are. Mercy and compassion are the characteristics of saints.
Part 2 of 2
Eucharistic Readings for All Saints Day: Year A
Ecclesiasticus 44:1-14; Psalm 149; Revelation 7:2to4,9to17;Matthew 5:1to12;
“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.” (Matthew 5:11)
There are 7 beatitudes leading to this summation of “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.” Let’s look at them.
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Poor in spirit means those who have almost lost all hope. They just need the good news that God loves them.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God’s ears hears tears. God will come.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. All who humble themselves will be exalted.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. We are called to “strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being.” BCP 305)
Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. Judge not, and be not judged.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. We must see Jesus in everyone.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Can’t we all just get along?
Today is All Saints Day. The above list defines who the saints are. Do you want to be one too?
Let us hear what the Spirit is saying to, and through, the saints of God, and then ponder anew what the Almighty can do. John
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