Ephesians 2:19-22

So then, you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone; in him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God.

This hymn is one that appears often on All Saints’ Day, a Sunday in which we recognize the saints of the faith who have gone before us. I associate this hymn with this special Sunday, but it also causes me to recall all those saints (many of whom are still alive) who have played a role in my journey of faith. I remember Sunday School teachers from my childhood, patient youth group leaders, fellow summer camp staff, seminary classmates and professors, co-workers and mentors in camp ministry and in the church setting, and all those wonderful friends at church who have shown Christ’s love in a myriad of ways. We all have people in our lives who have shaped our faith. I invite you to think of those folks today and thank God for them. If they are still living, you might even reach out and let them know how much they mean to you and your faith.

Prayer

Holy God, we give You thanks for all the saints who have played a role in our lives. We know that they are not perfect, but they have demonstrated something in their words and actions that guided us in a walk with You. Help us to be that type of influence on others in lives. In all that we do today, may we glorify You and point others to the joy of a relationship with You. Amen.