For All the Saints
And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who from now on die in the Lord.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them” (Revelation 14:13)
On All Saints Sunday, many of us gathered to hear God’s Word, to receive the Eucharist, and to remember those who have died. Candles were lit. Bells were tolled. Tears were shed. Maybe you sang a hymn or two. Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones. Shall We Gather at the River. For All the Saints.
I was especially inspired by this simple video (3:45) version of For All the Saints. I pray that you also find it meaningful and hopeful.
Click here to view For All the Saints.
Almighty God, you have knit your people together in one communion in the mystical body of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Grant us grace to follow your blessed saints in lives of faith and commitment, and to know the inexpressible joys you have prepared for those who love you, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Evangelical Lutheran Worship pg. 59)
Discouragement
"So, we rebuilt the wall, and all the wall was joined together to half its height; for the people had a mind to work. But when Sanballat and Tobiah and the Arabs and the Ammonites and the Ashdodites heard that the repairing of the walls of Jerusalem was going forward...
Criticism
"Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he mocked the Jews. He said in the presence of his associates and of the army of Samaria, "What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore things? Will they sacrifice?...
The Jesus Prayer
"When he [Bartimaeus] heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" (Mark 10:47). In one of my past e-mail blasts, I mentioned praying the "Jesus Prayer" during my long-distance runs. "Jesus Christ, Son of...
Prayer is a Marathon
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). I just finished my 3rd half-marathon, and I was pleased with my finish and time. I am slowly learning how to run...