10-31-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
​October 31, 2023
Tombs are often the setting for the climax in a horror movie. It is usually dark, and there is a good layer of fog. The wind is blowing just enough to cause the leaves to swirl around and the branches to crackle. An owl usually gives off a startling call as a distant dog echoes back with a chilling howl. Hollywood is quite good at setting a scene that causes us to tense up and even close our eyes. Today is a day of tombs, and though we may find ourselves experiencing a moment of fright, we really have a different vision of the tomb. It is not a place of fear, but a place of joy. 

Fifteen years ago, I went to Italy with four other clergy. We had a great time, and during our visit to the Vatican, we toured an area under St. Peter’s Basilica where many of the tombs of former Popes are found. I was really taken back when we approached the tomb of Pope John Paul II, one of the most beloved Popes in recent history. There were twenty or so people hanging on his tomb, sobbing. We stayed there for 30 minutes or so, and the people never left. Later, I was told that some of the same people come to his tomb every day and cry for hours. I understand how important he was to many people, but I’m pretty certain that was not what he would want. Of all people, I feel pretty confident in saying that he is not there. He is enjoying life with the One he served and desires for us to view the grave not as an ending but as a beginning. 

On this Halloween, when goblins and ghouls are causing us to quiver in fear, when images of tombs and graveyards are the source of anxiety, and when people enjoy being the source of other people's screams, let us remember the tomb that was empty. Let us remember the joy! For Christians, today is All Hallows’ Eve, the day before All Saints’ Day. Though it was often celebrated around tombs, it was not a fearful or sad occasion but a time of remembrance and joy. It’s a very different take on October 31.

Gracious God, you are the source of resurrection. Through you, new life is found. As the world enjoys an evening of fright around the images of death, let us remember how your love frees us from all these fears. Let us celebrate the power of grace to liberate humanity into new life. Amen.