11-03-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 3, 2024
Today, in worship, we will celebrate the Saints who have joined the Great Cloud of Witnesses. Last year, my mother’s name was spoken, and in the previous year, the name of Donna’s mother was spoken. Names are important, and there is something about lifting up a name in the context of the worshiping community, specifically on a day like All Saints’ Sunday. It is about being remembered, and with names come memories. In the ancient world, before much of Israel’s history was written down, their stories were told and retold. And of course, with each telling, the names of those who had gone before them were spoken. For some of us, we won’t have a loved one’s name mentioned in service tomorrow, but it is ok to take a moment during prayer or song and simply give thanks to God for that person’s life.

For all those who brought kindness, joy, and love into my life, I speak a word of gratitude unto you, O Lord of Life and Life after Life. Amen.