Today, 1st November 2024, marks All Saints’ Day, a day traditionally set aside to remember and celebrate those who have gone before us in the faith. It’s a day to reflect on the great cloud of witnesses who inspire us by their example of faithfulness to God. While some may associate All Saints’ Day with solemnity, it’s also a day for celebrating how God works through ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
Saints: Ordinary People, Extraordinary God
When we hear the word “saint,” we might think of historical figures like St. Paul, St. Peter, or St. Francis of Assisi—spiritual giants who seem far removed from our everyday lives. But the truth is, the Bible calls all believers “saints.” In Ephesians 1:1, Paul addresses the “saints” in Ephesus—not because they were perfect, but because they were set apart for God. You and I, as believers in Christ, are called to be saints, to live in a way that reflects God’s love and holiness.
What’s remarkable is that these saints—both famous and unknown—were ordinary people, just like us. They struggled, they doubted, they stumbled, but they pressed on in faith. Hebrews 12:1 speaks of this great cloud of witnesses that surrounds us, encouraging us to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles” so that we can run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Running Our Race
We often face challenges in our walk with God. It can be tempting to look at the saints of the past and think, “I could never be like them.” But remember, they didn’t have it easy either. They faced persecution, hardship, and trials, yet they remained faithful because they knew the power of God at work in their lives. The same God who empowered them is empowering you today.
In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul says, “Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus.” Like those who have gone before us, we are in a race. Our goal is not to be perfect but to remain faithful, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
You’re Part of the Story
What’s encouraging about All Saints’ Day is the reminder that we are part of this larger story—God’s story. The same God who worked through Moses, Esther, Peter, and Mary is working through you. Your life, no matter how ordinary it may seem, is part of God’s extraordinary plan.
Take a moment today to reflect on the saints who have inspired your faith. Perhaps it’s a family member, a friend, or a pastor who showed you what it means to follow Christ. How did they impact your life? And more importantly, how might God use your life to inspire others?
Reflection Verse
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders… and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1).
Reflection Question with an Action Step
Who has been a “saint” in your life, inspiring you to walk more closely with God?
Today, take a moment to thank God for those people. If possible, reach out to them and let them know how they have impacted your faith. And think about how you can be a witness to someone else, living in a way that points them to Christ.
A Moment to Reflect with an Encouraging Action
You are part of a beautiful, enduring legacy of faith. Today, as you reflect on those who have gone before, ask God to give you the strength and perseverance to run your race well. Remember, it’s not about being perfect but about being faithful, trusting that God can use your life in ways far beyond what you can imagine.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for the saints who have gone before us and for the way they inspire us to live faithfully for You. Help us to remember that we, too, are called to be saints, to live lives that reflect Your love and grace. Give us strength to run the race You have set before us, and help us to be an encouragement to those around us. May we trust in Your power at work within us, knowing that You are able to do far more than we could ask or imagine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
