November 1, 2020
Revelations 7, 2-4, 9-14; Psalm 24; 1 John 3, 1-3; Matthew 5, 1-12.
By +Guy Sansaricq
This feast is like a victory parade after a long debilitating war. The saints in heaven have won the battle of life and received the rewards of their efforts. They share the glory of God.
The Church on earth rejoices with them as we are members of the same family, children of the same God, co heirs of the same glory even though we are still walking by faith while they enjoy the face-to-face. The Bible teaches us that those who are on the other side of the veil are mysteriously close to us. They pray that we will let God’s grace triumph in our lives.
The assurance of their eternal sanctification and glorification stirs into flame our longing and yearning for that heavenly bliss beyond our earthly horizon. “God has destined us for acquiring salvation through our Lord Jesus-Christ. Christ died for us so that all of us, whether awake or asleep, together might live with him” (1 Thess.5, 9)
Let us set our gaze on what awaits us at the end of the journey. Mankind’s history flows like a mighty river to that moment when time will become eternity, when Love’s luminous presence will transform the world into his kingdom. Those who are pure in spirit, humble, compassionate, lovers of peace and merciful will rejoice exceedingly. This includes you and me if only we allow God’s Grace to shine in our hearts. Today the militant Church bows to the triumphant Church!