Rex's Reflections: A Great Multitude on All Saints' Day

This Sunday is All Saints’ Day. When we hear the word “saint,” we often think of prominent figures in the history of the church, people like St. Peter, St. Francis, or St. Patrick. In our Reformed tradition, the day has a different focus. One resource describes it this way: “All Saints’ Day is a time to rejoice in all who through the ages have faithfully served the Lord. The day reminds us that we are part of one continuing, living communion of saints.” It continues, “Reminded that God was with the faithful of the past, we are reassured that God is with us today, moving us and all creation toward God’s end in time. In this context, it is appropriate for a congregation on All Saints’ Day to commemorate the lives of those who died during the previous year.” And we will do just that. Each year we read the names of faithful disciples, who, having served Christ’s church here in the heart of Naples, departed this life to be in God’s eternal presence. 

A Heavenly Vision of Comfort and Praise

In our Scripture passage from the book of Revelation, we see a vision of what that looks like. People from every nation stand before God’s heavenly throne in ceaseless praise. Angels surround the throne and the great multitude of people to sing a hymn. Together, they worship God day and night. This is a text we sometimes hear at funerals. It provides comfort and reassurance to those of us left behind that our loved ones are now in God’s gracious care, where “the one who is seated on the throne will shelter them…and he will guide them to springs of the water of life.” Confident in this promised vision, we are called to follow the example of these saints in light, to persevere in our faith, and witness to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. 

Worshipping Together Across Generations

I look forward to worshipping with you, either in person or online, as we offer our thanks and praise to God together while honoring all the saints who have gone before us. It is also a GenWE Sunday, with our youth helping to lead worship and all generations coming together at the Lord’s Table. The sermon title is “A Great Multitude.” 

Peace,

Rex

Rev. Rex Childs

Associate Pastor