Mathew 5:1-12
Years ago a group of Christians from the United States visited war-torn Nicaragua. While there, a young man in this group was killed by the Contras. This left the group confused and full of questions. On the next Sunday a memorial service was held. From the altar the priest said, “The peace of the Lord be with you” and people from the congregation, Nicaraguan people, began to embrace these Americans and say, “Paz” or “peace.” These people who had suffered in so many ways were passing the peace of Christ.
During the Communion service there was a pause. The congregation was silent. Then someone called out a name. In one voice everyone responded, “Presente!” Another name was called out. Once again, the response was, “Presente!” During the service at least twenty names were called out and each time the same response: “Presente!” Ron DelBene, the pastor leading this group of Christians did not understand what was happening until he heard the name Oscar Romero. Then he realized that all the names were those of persons who had died. From that moment on he joined in shouting, “Presente!”
“Presente” is used by school children to answer roll call. At the Lord’s table the word “presente” means “in the midst” or “present with us.” Shouting “presente!” in this worship service was a way of proclaiming the reality of the communion of saints. (1.) Although those persons named had died, their presence and influence was still felt.
Today we celebrate All Saints Sunday. We remember those persons who have influenced our faith development, whose presence is still felt in our lives even though they now rest from their labors. All Saints Sunday is the church’s Memorial Day, a time to remember and give thanks to God for those who have died in the faith. With these thoughts in mind, go with me, now, to a mountain where Jesus is teaching. He begins with a list of Beatitudes. These Beatitudes form a picture of the life of a saint. On this All-Saints Sunday let’s consider three of the more difficult or these Beatitudes to see if you and I might qualify.
Questions to Ponder
Have you ever been in a roll call?
Do you still feel the presence and influence of those who had died?
What composes the life of a saint?
In his service,
Terry Phillips
