FRIDAY, THIRTIETH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Solemnity of All Saints
Rv 7: 2-4, 9-14 Ps 24: 1-6 1 Jn 3: 1-3 Mt 5: 1-12
HOLINESS FOR ALL
Today is All Saints’ Day, a special occasion that celebrates the life of all the saints, both those we know and those who are known only to God. It’s a day to remember and honour everyone who has reached heaven, recognizing their deep faith and their impact on the Church. This feast highlights our belief in the Communion of Saints, showing how the faithful on earth are spiritually connected with those in heaven and those who are still preparing in purgatory. It is a reminder that holiness isn’t just for a few but is a call for everyone. By celebrating the saints, we are encouraged to live out our faith with dedication. This day also reminds us that the saints are exemplary models of Christian living, showcasing the virtues and devotion to God that all believers are encouraged to pursue. It is a day to reflect on the Church’s rich heritage and the profound impact these holy individuals have had on our faith. This celebration also provides a moment to renew one’s spiritual commitment and seek the intercession of the saints, deepening the spiritual connections that unite all members of the Church.
The readings today invite us to deeply reflect on our call to holiness and the fulfilment of God’s promises. The first reading presents a powerful vision of a vast multitude from every nation, standing united and exalted before God. This image symbolizes the ultimate reward for being faithful and universal salvation, showing that God’s promise extends to all people without any regard for race, caste or colour. The second reading reminds us of the immense love, God has for us, calling us His children and urging us to live pure lives in preparation for the transformation, yet to come. The Gospel, speaking on the Beatitudes, highlights the blessings that come on those who put on qualities such as meekness, mercy, and purity: traits that align with the ideals of God’s kingdom. Together, these readings encourage us to embrace our own path to holiness, drawing inspiration from the saints and striving to live according to the values of the Gospel. Is holiness meant for only a few chosen ones? No, holiness is a universal calling. All people are called to be holy, regardless of where they are in life. The idea that all people are created in God’s image and likeness and are invited to live in union with Him is the foundation of this call to holiness. It is not a privilege for a few. This implies that everyone who has been baptized is called to strive for holiness in their daily lives.
The Christian identity is linked to the call to holiness, which is necessary for practical living of Jesus’ teachings. Depending on a person’s stage of life, holiness can take many different forms. All are called to honestly live out their religion, regardless of their status: layman, married, single, priest, or member of a religious order. This entails putting virtues into practice, exhibiting the Beatitudes, and making an effort to love and serve others as Christ did. In the Gospel of Matthew (5:48) there is a call for us to “be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect,” suggesting that the pursuit of holiness involves striving for the highest standards of righteousness and love.
It is surprising to see how the lives of two saints are not alike. This shows us that there is no one absolute path of holiness. Their lives demonstrate that holiness can be attained by a variety of acts of dedication, sacrifice, and service. The Church celebrates saints who were intellectuals, labourers, and rulers, demonstrating that virtue does not change depending on one’s profession or social standing. The virtue of holiness is common and basic for a true Christian living. The Second Vatican Council reinforced this by teaching that the call to holiness is inherent in the very Christian vocation, which includes seeking sanctity in the context of everyday life.
Holiness can be demonstrated in day-to-day interactions and interactions with others. People can become more holy by accepting God’s grace, partaking in the sacraments, and acting justly and charitable. Let us pray for this grace today. May word of God inspire and transform us.
Response: These are the people who seek your face, O Lord.
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