Author: churchgoodshepherd823

The End of Waiting, the Beginning of a New Era

(Luke 3:15–17, 21–22)

Our Gospel passage for this day invites us to reflect on the long wait the people of Israel endured for the Messiah. They lived under the yoke of the Roman Empire and local rulers, longing desperately for God’s promise of salvation. However, the weight of reality pressed down on them, and faith rooted too heavily in temple sacrifices and legal observances could sometimes drain their spirits. At that time, religious life largely depended on priests who oversaw temple sacrifices and enforced the Law. These sacrifices were sacred ways to stand before God and seek forgiveness. Yet people sometimes risked losing sight of God’s heart if they only focused on following rules and formal rituals. The poorest among them could barely afford the offerings required, and certain temple authorities—like the Sadducees—used their positions to hold power over the people.

In the midst of this difficult situation, a voice rang out in the wilderness. It spoke against legalistic thinking confined to the temple. It proclaimed true repentance and opened a new way for salvation. That voice belonged to John the Baptist. We know that, in Jesus’ and John’s day, there were three major religious groups in Jewish society. The Pharisees honored both the Torah (the five books of Moses) and oral traditions, believing in the resurrection and angels, yet they were sometimes criticized for formality and hypocrisy. The Sadducees were mostly made up of priestly aristocrats with strong control over the Jerusalem Temple. Because they only accepted the Torah, they denied teachings like resurrection and angels, and after the Temple was destroyed, they disappeared from history. The Essenes left the cities and the corrupted temple system, retreating to remote locations for strict purity and communal living—like the Qumran community, which is known for the Dead Sea Scrolls.

John the Baptist adopted a life that seemed similar to the Essenes—wearing camel’s hair and eating locusts and wild honey. However, unlike the Essenes, who tended to live in closed communities separated from the outside world, John stayed in the wilderness yet preached repentance publicly. This was his special calling. He was born to Zechariah, a priest serving in the Temple, and Elizabeth, who was related to Mary, the mother of Jesus. According to Scripture, John received a special calling even before his birth, and his very birth was miraculous. Although he came from a priestly family, John did not remain in the Temple system but went out into the desert. That wilderness was harsh and lonely, but there he devoted himself entirely to God’s Word. His camel’s hair garment and simple diet symbolized his firm commitment to focus on God alone, in a time he believed to be spiritually corrupt.

When we look at John’s choice to live in the wilderness, his modest eating habits, and his rough clothing, we see they were not just for show. He was determined to avoid worldly temptations so he could respond wholeheartedly to God’s call. A life of strict discipline is not its own goal, but rather a way to love God deeply and listen to God’s will. As we reflect on our own faith, we have to ask: “What truly comes first in our lives?” Like John, are we ready to put aside worldly success or ambition to remain faithful to God’s calling?

During John’s ministry, people who wanted forgiveness from sin normally had to go to the Jerusalem Temple and offer sacrifices. This burdened the poor, and the Sadducees and priests who controlled temple rituals profited from it. Such a system limited God’s grace to the privileged classes. John overturned this pattern when he began to offer a “baptism of repentance” in the wilderness. He insisted that genuine repentance and inner change mattered more to God than ritual alone. He taught that if people received baptism with water and turned their hearts to God, they would receive God’s forgiveness. This was a shocking idea at a time when the Temple’s authority was absolute. Yet it opened the possibility of grace to everyone, including the poor.

John’s ministry not only challenged religious authorities but also took on political power. He publicly condemned Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee, for taking his brother’s wife—an immoral act. This bold prophetic stance put John’s life at risk. Herod feared the people’s respect for John and hesitated to harm him, but Herod’s wife, Herodias, resented John. Through her daughter Salome’s request, she had John arrested and eventually beheaded (Mark 6:17–28). This shows John was more than a religious innovator; he was a true prophet who spoke against corruption. He drew large crowds in the wilderness, and some even thought he might be the Messiah. But John was clear about his identity. He once proclaimed, “He must increase, but I must decrease,” signifying that Jesus should become greater while he became less. Thus, John accepted his role as “a voice” preparing the way for Jesus.

At this point, we recognize how John rose above ordinary human desires and focused entirely on God’s plan. We might recall Maslow’s hierarchy of needs: starting with physiological needs like food and water, then safety, then belonging and love, next esteem or honor, and finally self-actualization at the highest level. While many seek esteem—recognition, status, or honor—John the Baptist deliberately chose to forgo this fourth level of need, prioritizing instead his ultimate calling. He did not seek worldly fame but dedicated himself fully to revealing Jesus to the world. This was not merely self-denial but a conscious pursuit of his God-given mission, which led him beyond the need for esteem to a deeper self-actualization. To the world, it may have seemed as if he was lowering himself, but in the grand story of salvation, he was actually achieving the fullest realization of his purpose.

When Jesus came to be baptized by John (Luke 3:21–22), we see a powerful sign of a new age beginning. Even though Jesus was sinless, He entered into the very place where sinners repented, taking upon Himself the burdens of humanity. This action points to a new era. John’s call—“Repent and change from within!”—found its deeper completion in Jesus. Yet John’s humility and restraint stand out as well. Some believed he was the Messiah because he was so popular, but John insisted: “I am only preparing the way for the One who is far greater.” He knew how easily people can be tempted by success or admiration, and he was determined to remain faithful to God’s bigger plan.

Sometimes we also rely on rituals or outward forms for a sense of security. But John’s message is that without genuine repentance, these forms are empty. True repentance is not merely regret; it is a complete change of our life’s direction. Rather than just fixing one mistake, it involves moving the very center of our lives back to God. This kind of repentance shakes our inner being and leads us to act differently. Even though John spoke boldly about radical change, he never tried to be a hero. He always pointed people to Jesus and stepped back, so that God’s plan could be revealed more clearly through him.

In this way, John teaches us what it looks like to say, “I’m not the main character—God is the one directing the story of salvation, and I am just a humble servant.” When we understand our proper place and carry out the task God has given us, we too experience true repentance and a new beginning. Just as the Messiah came to an Israel weakened by formality and oppression, Jesus promised to baptize us “with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Luke 3:16). The first step to enter this promise is to turn our hearts back to God. And that repentance must include humility and self-restraint, like John’s, so that we do not glorify ourselves but reveal God’s work in our lives.

Even now, the voice crying out in the wilderness echoes in our hearts, inviting each of us to reflect on how we respond to this call. True humility allows God’s presence to shine more clearly in our lives, and as we open our hearts and turn to Him, we are led beyond formality into true transformation. May we follow the path of John the Baptist—not seeking to exalt ourselves, but finding true renewal as we take our rightful place in God’s grand design. Then, we will discover that the end of our waiting indeed becomes the beginning of a new era. Through genuine repentance and inner renewal, we will enter the gate of God’s kingdom.

Amen.

Faith That Grows in Waiting and Praise
Scripture: Luke 1:39-55 (Fourth Sunday of Advent)

Today, we celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Advent, bringing us closer to the joy of Christmas. During
this season, we have journeyed in faith—seeking light amid darkness and readying our hearts for the
Lord’s arrival despite life’s uncertainties. Advent is not passive waiting; it is an active embracing of
God’s promises, held deeply in our hearts.
As we draw near to Christmas, I invite you to reflect on the story of Mary and how her response to
God’s promise can guide us in our own times of anticipation, fear, and faith. In Luke chapter 1, we find
not only Mary’s courageous decision but also her profound song of praise. Both reveal a heart fully
dedicated to God, even in moments of risk and uncertainty.
In the ancient world, marriage customs were quite different from ours. Mary was likely a teenager
when she conceived Jesus through the Holy Spirit. In ancient Jewish society, it was common for
women to become engaged between 12 and 14 and marry by 16. While her exact age is unknown, her
acceptance of God’s call at such a young age, despite the risks, was a profound act of faith. Accepting
God’s call at that stage of life, especially when it could lead to misunderstanding, criticism, and even
put her safety at risk, was a remarkable act of faith.
When the angel Gabriel told Mary she would bear the Son of God, her response was brief yet
profound.
“Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)
This becomes even more meaningful when we think about the challenges Mary faced in her society. In
her culture, becoming pregnant before marriage could result in harsh outcomes. Women in such
situations were often met with public disgrace, rejection from their communities, and even the threat of
death by stoning, as prescribed in the Mosaic law (Deuteronomy 22:20-21). Their families, too, would
face shame and rejection from society, making her choice even more challenging.
Yet, despite these risks, Mary entrusted herself to God’s will. She let go of her fears, placing her trust
in God’s plan and showing obedience by embracing 디the uncertainty of her situation with courage.
This remarkable faith, despite the risks, reveals the profound courage and devotion within Mary’s
heart.
We all face moments when a simple “yes” or “no” is not enough. Sometimes we need a faith-filled
“yes” that comes with real risks attached—moments where the future feels uncertain, and the stakes
are high. Like Mary, we may wrestle with fear. However, Mary’s willingness to trust God beyond her
fear invites us to do the same. It is in precisely those moments that God’s plan unfolds in ways beyond
our imagination.

After Mary visited her relative Elizabeth, who was also expecting a child through God’s miracle,
Elizabeth’s greeting sparked a powerful response in Mary—a song of praise we often call the
Magnificat. This hymn flows directly from the depth of Mary’s spirit:
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior…” (Luke 1:46-47)
In this hymn, Mary extols God’s faithfulness and justice, celebrating the Lord who lifts up the lowly and
brings down the mighty. It is a grand reversal of worldly values, showing us a kingdom where humility
is honored and pride is humbled. Mary’s song invites us to reflect on the character of God: one who
sees and cares for the humble and neglected, and who brings down the proud from their high
positions.
We can learn so much from Mary’s praise. Praise deepens our connection with God. When we sing or
speak our gratitude, we become more aware of God’s constant presence in our everyday lives. It is
not that God needs our praise to be God; instead, when we praise God, His grace works through us,
helping us grow and follow His plans. In turn, we become more open to the ways God can work
through us to bless others.
It is easy to read Mary’s story and assume it was straightforward, but the reality is that her decision to
say “yes” carried real-life consequences. She faced not only social and cultural risks but also personal
uncertainty about her future. Yet Mary trusted God’s providence and believed that her “yes” would
lead to something greater than she could imagine.
Likewise, we face important decisions in our lives: “Am I supposed to take this risk?” “What if I fail?”
“What will people think?” Such questions can keep us stuck in hesitation. However, if our choice aligns
with God’s will—if it is something that honors God and benefits our neighbor—then perhaps we are
being called, like Mary, to trust God for the outcome.
Trusting God does not guarantee a life without challenges. However, through faith, we recognize that
even life’s hardships can be used by God for greater purposes. Seeing challenges through God’s
control frees us from regret and gives us hope to move forward.
Advent is a season that challenges us to remember God’s promises and respond with obedience. We
might think of waiting as passive, but in fact, biblical waiting is anything but idle. Mary’s example
shows us that genuine expectation goes hand in hand with readiness to serve. She actively traveled to
Elizabeth, offered support, received confirmation, and burst into praise. Waiting on God means staying
attentive to His voice and ready to act in love—whether through offering encouragement to someone
in need, reaching out to the lonely, or showing kindness in unexpected ways. These small actions can
make God’s love tangible in daily life.
This active waiting calls us to look around for neighbors in need. It can mean a kind note for someone
discouraged or a listening ear for someone who feels alone. These seemingly small gestures can
become powerful testimonies of faith, preparing the way for the Lord’s presence in our communities. It
is in these tangible acts of kindness that the miracle of Christmas takes root in our daily lives.

God shapes us through our waiting, using the time to mature our faith and deepen our compassion. If
we are willing to respond with openness, trusting that God’s timing is perfect, we will find that our
hearts grow bigger, and our deeds reflect the love we have first received from Christ.
As we conclude this Advent journey, let us remember Mary’s extraordinary “yes” to God—a “yes” that
involved real risk and yet led to the salvation of the world. Her example teaches us that when we yield
our fears to God and stand resolute in faith, God can do marvelous things through our ordinary lives.
Faith is more than a feeling; it is a trust that matures in waiting and expresses itself in praise. Mary’s
Magnificat shows us that genuine faith inevitably results in gratitude, reverence, and an unshakable
conviction that God values the lowly and cares for marginalized.
What about us? As we stand on the threshold of Christmas, how will we say “yes” to God’s call in our
lives? Perhaps it is stepping out to help a neighbor, supporting a ministry in the church, or standing
firm in a decision that honors God and blesses those around us. Let us do so without regret, letting
God transform our small acts of obedience into streams of blessing for others.
May we embrace this season of Advent not by simply counting down the days, but by actively
participating in God’s unfolding plan—seeking opportunities to love, serve, and offer praise. When we
rest our lives on God’s promises, our faith opens the way for the Holy Spirit to work within us, and our
praises become a living testimony that Christ has indeed come near.
Amen.

A Call to Transform: From Inner Change to Community Renewal

Today, let us take a moment to reflect on the meaningful message of John the Baptist and
consider how we can prepare our hearts for God’s salvation. John the Baptist was a voice
crying out in the wilderness, sharing God’s word and calling for repentance and forgiveness of
sins through baptism. His message was not just for the people of his time; it continues to
connect with us today, urging us to draw closer to God and follow His will.

John the Baptist was not just a preacher in the wilderness; he was born into a family deeply
rooted in faith. His father, Zechariah, was a priest serving in the temple in Jerusalem, and his
mother, Elizabeth, was a descendant of Aaron, the first high priest (Luke 1:5). Despite their
old age, they were blessed with John through God’s promise, as foretold by the angel Gabriel
(Luke 1:13-17). The name “John” means “God is gracious,” reflecting his role in God’s plan of
salvation. Moreover, Elizabeth was a relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus, making John and
Jesus close relatives. When Mary visited Elizabeth to share the news of her pregnancy, John,
still in Elizabeth’s womb, leaped with joy, recognizing the presence of Jesus (Luke 1:41). This
familiar bond shows how God’s salvation plan was carefully woven through relationships,
preparing the way for the Messiah to come.

As we read in Luke chapter 3, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the
way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and
hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made
smooth.'” These words remind us that preparing for God’s salvation is not about physical
roads, but about the spiritual transformation required in our hearts. We need to ask ourselves:
Are there obstacles within us such as pride, prejudice, or unwillingness to understand others
that are blocking the way for God’s love? We must clear these inner obstacles to allow God’s
love to flow freely.

Sometimes, our bad habits and repeated mistakes pull us away from God. John’s message
challenges us to examine our lives and straighten the crooked paths within our hearts.
Repentance is more than feeling sorry for our wrongs—it is making a sincere decision to turn
to God and start anew. For instance, if we often find ourselves in conflict with others, we

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should reflect on the reasons why and work toward reconciliation through understanding and
forgiveness. These concrete actions help prepare our hearts for God’s presence.

Repentance and inner preparation are not just personal matters; they extend to our
relationships with others. John’s call for change is not only about individual transformation but
also about renewing our community. To fully receive God’s love, we must restore our
relationships with those around us—our family, friends, and neighbors. The love that God
desires from us is not just about personal reflection; it must manifest in the way we treat
others. This means letting go of resentment, resolving misunderstandings, and actively
seeking reconciliation.

John also urges us to lower the mountains of pride that stand in the way of true love. Pride
keeps us from God and hinders us from building meaningful connections with others. We
often judge people by our own standards, failing to understand their struggles and needs. But
God calls us to understand, love, and accept one another. Removing the barriers of pride and
viewing others through God’s eyes is an essential part of our spiritual preparation. We need to
practice humility and embrace those who are different from us with God’s love.

Advent is a special time given to us for this inner preparation. It is a season of hope as we
wait for the coming of Jesus—a chance to renew our hearts and cleanse our souls. If we view
Advent as merely a time to prepare for Christmas, we miss its deeper significance. Advent is
about making space for God at the center of our lives, clearing out the hatred, anger, and
pride that can take root in our hearts. To prepare for Jesus’s coming, we must make room for
God to dwell within us.

God calls us not only to inner transformation but also to put His love into action. John’s
message compels us to practice God’s love in tangible ways—by speaking kindly, helping
those in need, and being compassionate. These small acts of love accumulate to transform
our hearts and bring God’s salvation into our lives. Furthermore, we must work for justice and
peace in the world. Like John, we are called to stand against injustice and be a light in the
darkness, bringing hope to those in need.

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Another important lesson from John the Baptist is his humility. John did not seek recognition
for himself but faithfully fulfilled his role as the one who prepared the way for Jesus. He said,
“He who is coming after me is more powerful than I; I am not worthy to carry his sandals”
(Matthew 3:11). This humility is a powerful reminder for us. When we serve God, we should
do so without seeking praise or elevating our own achievements. Everything we do is by
God’s grace, and our mission is to glorify His name. May all our actions reflect God’s glory
and fulfill His purpose.

John’s cry is still relevant in our society today. We are responsible not only for our spiritual
growth but also for fostering social justice and peace. This call reminds us that our faith
cannot exist in isolation. Just as John called for the crooked paths to be made straight and the
rough ways to be smoothed, we are called to be agents of change, actively working to bring
God’s justice into the world. By engaging with the challenges and inequalities of our society,
we fulfill the deeper mission of our faith—to reflect God’s love and justice in tangible ways.

The love that God calls us to show goes beyond our personal lives. It includes taking
responsibility for others and supporting our community. Many times, we think justice is
someone else’s problem. But fairness and peace in society affect our own daily lives and the
well-being of our families. In Korea today, sudden decisions by leaders have created political
instability and unrest. These problems do not only disturb public peace; they also affect our
personal lives. When society is unjust and unstable, we feel worried, and our families’ safety
and stability are at risk. This is not a faraway issue. It is a challenge that touches our
everyday lives. It reminds us that people and society, individuals and communities, are
always connected. Just as clean water is needed for fish to live, a fair society is needed for
our lives to be healthy and peaceful. We cannot ignore social responsibility as if it has nothing
to do with us. It is an important part of doing God’s will in our daily lives.

True preparation for God’s work begins at home. We are called to love and respect our family
members, allowing God’s love to shine first in our homes. This love should then spread to our
neighbors and our community. We must teach our children about God’s love, justice, and
humility, guiding them to grow with strong values and a desire to serve others. Preparing our
hearts means creating an environment where God’s love is present and felt by those around
us.

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As we continue this journey of preparation, let us remember that God desires more than just
outward actions—He seeks an inner transformation that leads to genuine change in our lives.
Let us listen to John’s cry and commit to fulfilling God’s will in every aspect of our lives. Let us
create moments of stillness to hear God’s voice, reflect on His word, and be transformed by
His love.

Each day offers new opportunities to prepare the way for the Lord. These opportunities can
be found in simple moments—choosing patience when we are frustrated, showing kindness
to someone who is struggling, or offering forgiveness even when it is difficult. These moments
are sacred, and they are the ways in which we actively prepare our hearts for God’s work.

As we journey through this Advent season, let us examine ourselves deeply, commit to
repentance, and take steps toward real change. May we prepare our hearts to welcome
Jesus, making room for His love to enter and transform us. Through this journey of
preparation, may we experience God’s salvation and feel His love more deeply. Let us walk
this path with courage, not fear, trusting that God is with us every step of the way.

May we all hear John’s call anew today and respond with willing hearts. Let us prepare the
way for the Lord, not just in words but in the practical reality of our daily lives. As we do so,
may we experience the deep joy and peace that come from walking closely with our God.

Amen.

A Humble Faith in Recognizing Grace

Today, we turn to the Gospel of Mark to examine two contrasting images: the hypocrisy of the religious leaders, the scribes, and the sincere devotion of a poor widow. Through this passage, Jesus calls us to reflect on the nature of true faith and how to live it.

Let’s first look at the scribes. Jesus describes them, saying, “They like to walk around in long robes, be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets” (Mark 12:38-39). Outwardly, they appear devout, but Jesus exposes their true motives. They seek recognition, admiration, and power. He goes on to rebuke them: “They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers” (Mark 12:40). Instead of using their position to serve others, they exploit the vulnerable to bolster their social standing. It’s this desire for superiority that Jesus warns us against.

The desire for recognition is something we all experience. Children seek their parents’ praise, students aim for their teachers’ approval, and adults often seek recognition in their work. While this desire can motivate us to grow, it can also lead to pride and self-promotion. When our focus shifts from growth to superiority—when we strive to appear “better than others”—we enter a dangerous cycle of comparison. We may judge others harshly, and our faith can become entangled in pride rather than humility.

Today’s society encourages this cycle. Capitalism often tempts us to pursue “better cars, bigger homes, and higher status,” suggesting these are the hallmarks of success. Advertisements tell us that happiness comes from owning the newest or best items. Each release of a new phone or car model reminds us that what we have isn’t “good enough.” This culture teaches us to measure our worth by our possessions, but Jesus offers a different perspective.

In the temple, many wealthy people gave large sums of money. Yet, Jesus directed His praise toward a poor widow who offered only two small coins—worth nearly nothing by today’s standards. Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on” (Mark 12:43-44).

Jesus saw her heart. Her gift, though small, was given in full trust and devotion. Unlike the wealthy, she gave all she had to God, showing her sincere love and humility. Through her example, Jesus teaches us that true value lies not in outward appearances or wealth, but in the sincerity and humility with which we approach God.

In our world, people are often judged by wealth, education, or status, and many people credit their achievements solely to their own efforts. While hard work is essential, we sometimes forget that much of what shapes our lives is beyond our control—our birthplace, family, and opportunities. These factors, too, are gifts from God.

In his book Guns, Germs, and Steel, Jared Diamond explains that a society’s rapid advancement often depends on geography, natural resources, and factors beyond individual control. Likewise, many of our personal conditions are gifts we did not earn but received. Our nationality, family background, education, and talents are blessings from God. Even our health is a precious gift, not guaranteed.

Think about this: the same amount of money can provide a comfortable life in one country but barely meet basic needs in another. This shows that wealth, like many measures of success, is relative. Recognizing this helps us see that our successes and resources are blessings, not entitlements.

The Letter of James reminds us, “But God gives all the more grace; therefore it says, ‘God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble’” (James 4:6). When we see all that we have as a gift, we become more humble. Instead of taking pride in our achievements, we feel grateful for the grace God has given us.

This gratitude leads us to share our blessings and to serve others. Just as Jesus commended the widow’s humble offering, He calls us to approach life with a humble and giving heart. This doesn’t require grand gestures or large sums of money. It’s often shown through small, simple acts—helping a neighbor, offering words of kindness, or giving thanks daily for what we have. True humility and gratitude are reflected in our willingness to love and serve those around us.

Let us hold close the humility and devotion shown by the poor widow in today’s passage. May we recognize that all we possess is a gift from God and live with grateful, humble hearts.

Let us aspire for our lives to be instruments of God’s glory, channels through which grace and love flow to others. Our humility and gratitude allow us to connect with others more deeply, to serve them genuinely, and to uplift each other as children of God.

Finally, let us be reminded by Micah 6:8: “He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Instead of comparing ourselves to others, let us strive to walk alongside our neighbors, cultivating love and compassion and living a life filled with humility and thankfulness.

May we practice a faith that embraces and serves others, offering gratitude for the grace that God so freely gives.

Amen.

Sermon Preached at Church of the Good Shepherd

Fort Lee, New Jersey

Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 8:00 and 10:00 A.M.

All Saints’ Day Celebration
Just Who Do We Think We Are?

“[We are] knit together in one communion and fellowship.” (Collect, All Saints Day)
“Grace and mercy are upon his holy ones.”
(Wisdom of Solomon 3:9)
“The home of God is among mortals.”
(The Book of Revelation 21:3)
“[Lazarus came] out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth and his faced
wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, and let him go.’”
(John 11:44)
“Yet all are one in thee, for all are thine.”
(Hymnal, #287, stanza 4)
I truly hope that your goblins and beasties and things that go bump in the
night have been scooted from your lives this season—and sent underground where
they belong. There’s just little point in holding on to the ghosts of our past, for now
is the brightness of the dawn and today is the only day we have…at least today.
And, of course, I also trust we’re done with Halloween candy. Candy corn can be
my undoing, and I’ve had enough of the resulting stomach ache from too much of
all that. At least I’m too old to “trick or treat,” so I don’t go to sleep with a big bag
full of sweets.
But I do enjoy every year celebrating the day that comes immediately after
All Hallows’ Eve, and that is All Saints Day, a day when we celebrate not just all
those past and present folks whom we honor with the title of “saint,” but

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something, some people, as special or even more special than all those saintly
saints…and that is us: you and I! Yes, you and I. For this is all saints season, and
the good news, as good as is the news of Christmas and the news of Easter, a time
when we look at the birthright and promise and heritage that is ours, yours and
mine. Yes, sainthood!

I think we know this already. Why don’t we acknowledge it more openly?
Are we shy? Do we think too little of ourselves? Do we think it would be arrogant
to go around lauding ourselves as saints. But this isn’t an ego trip, for just as I
celebrate who I am, I also honor you with the same title.
Let’s just look a bit more closely at who these saints are whom we like to
raise up and praise. Yes, they are those people in church history with St before
their names. The St. Thomases, St. Theresas, St. Francises, and the St. I-Don’t-
Know-Who Elses that popular the history of the church, past and present. Their
lives are interesting to learn about, for sure. But what is misleading about this is
that we seem to reserve the title only for those Christians who have made an
especially important impact in history, through miracles that surround them or
some other feats of heroism or devotion. This is fine, just so long as it doesn’t
leave out little ole you and me! Let me illustrate what I mean.
In thinking back on the people in my life who have made the largest impact
or influence, I can start with certain family members. I was particularly fortunate in

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having fantastic parents. When I think of the trauma and abuse that some of us
were destined to live with, I realize that we can spend a good part of our adulthood
working out the injuries so many of us receive from poor parenting.
But beyond parents and family, don’t we also remember one or two or more
teachers along the way, who, when we think of them, played a major role in who
we are and on what we admire. I would love to hear some of your reminiscences
about such people. When I think of those I remember, I realize how lucky I have
been to know them.
And then there are just that long line of friends and associate who were
examples to us of so many things: of good humor, kindness, courage, insight.
Some of these people you just felt good being around. There was something
special about who they were. We can’t always put our finger on it. But we know
they are special to us and will always remain so. Many of them are no longer with
us; others are still around to cheer us on in one way or another.
And there are, too, of course, people we don’t know personally to whom we
have the highest regard. They may be an occasional politician, someone we think
embodies what we believe a good leader should exhibit; or a musician (I have a
long list of them, classical, jazz, pop). I was watching a video of Englebert
Humperdinck the other day. I had never paid much attention to him, what a strange
name!… but, by golly, what a wonderful singer.

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People who bring joy, encouragement, insights, and an exhibition of what
the divine is all about into our lives. There are many God whisperers amongst us.
Sometimes we notice; other times we do not.
And now I ask you, what about these people? What place do they hold, not
just in your life, but as human beings, as children of God. What place do they hold
in the larger picture? Are we going to rate them on some kind of scale. I know as
human beings we tend to speak of one person as smarter, more talented, cleverer
than another person. This is we here looking through our limited vision, through
our ego eyes. I ask you, if we pull back a moment and ask how they are ranked by
God, we will find that there is no better or worse, higher or lower.
Of course, this is not to neglect character and the tally of our deeds and
actions here on earth. Just how kind have we been here in our bodies? There will
still be laws; we will still judge each other. Bad behavior will have consequences.
There will still be awards and the Nobel Peace Prize. Of course, nothing changes.
But there is another point of view. We get glimpses of it. Parents surely get this
glimpse, loving each of their children in the same way, unconditionally.
And we get a glimpse of it in the lives of those we will continue to honor
with that title, “saint.” But when we think of the life of the one called Jesus, do we
see a person who would give a prize for his Disciple of the Year? Did he rank
people? Of course, as a human being, he must have enjoyed the company of some

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disciples more than others, but would he have placed them in a ranked order? I
doubt it. I can’t see it.
Loving unconditionally tends to make ranking take a back seat.
Isn’t this what sainthood is about, and what we celebrate, what Jesus taught
us. God does not play favorites. So why should I? I know you will say that, indeed,
you cannot rank all the people you have loved and who you know loved you?
A quote by Sir Walter Scott:
“Love rules the court, the camp, the grove, And men below, and saints above. For
love is heaven, and heaven is love.”
And Henri Nouwen:
“The world is waiting … for new saints, ecstatic men and women who are so
deeply rooted in the love of God that they are free to imagine a new international
order.”
And finally, Frederick Buechner:
“In his holy flirtation with the world, God occasionally drops a handkerchief.
These handkerchiefs are called saints.”
And there are a lot more handkerchiefs among us than we realize! Amen.
Amen.