This Sunday is All Saints Sunday. The United Methodist Book of Worship explains:
“All Saints (November 1 or the first Sunday of November) is a day of remembrance for all the saints, with the New Testament meaning of all Christian people of every time and place. We celebrate the communion of saints as we remember the faithful departed, both of the Church universal and of our local congregations.”
Jesus teaches us to be the “light of the world” and the “salt of the earth.” Salt adds flavor and also preserves. Here are a few “salty saints” who have blessed my life, sometimes adding flavor, and sometimes preserving me through times of trial:
Don, my father, who taught me the importance of trusting God, always, and responding to God’s goodness with a glad and generous heart.
Sue, a cancer patient, who continued to come to church and set the table for Holy Communion until the last month of her life.
Steve, who served as a Stephen Minister and never wavered in his devotion to always serve Christ with passion and joy.
Deb, whose life was a song of joy, who sang on a praise team and encouraged many, including me, to keep the faith during tough seasons of life.
Today I invite you to come up with your own list of “salty saints,” people who have blessed your life. Stop and give thanks to God for each life that has flavored and preserved you. Finally, pray for God to help you step up as you strive to give your life away for others so that some day you will be remembered as a “salty saint!”
Cathy Johns