Sunday Rewind 11.5.06

All Saints Sunday is a day to remember Christians who have died in the past year. It's also a day to affirm and celebrate the communion of saints...that in some mysterious way, we are connected with Abraham, Paul, Luther, Wesley and everyone else who has died in Christ. It’s a day to look forward, back and within, realizing the Jesus is Lord of all three.

Scripture Lesson: Revelation 21:1-6a.

John's vision provides hope for the future. A new creation is coming. In that new creation, God’s original intention will be restored. These things are fact. “It is done”, says Jesus, the Alpha and Omega. So, All Saints Sunday gives us an opportunity to look forward, realizing that Jesus is Lord of the future.

John’s vision provides comfort for those in grief. Death is part of life in this world. But those who die in Christ are enjoying God’s presence now. And we know that Christians will be reunited with those who die in Christ, someday. So, All Saints Sunday gives an opportunity to look back, realizing that Jesus is Lord of the past.

John’s vision provides opportunity to reflect by asking some difficult questions.

• Is my relationship with God what it should be?
• Is my relationship with people what it should be?
• Is the legacy I’m leaving what it should be?

So, All Saints Sunday gives an opportunity to look within, realizing that Jesus is Lord of the present.

The truth of the matter is that today could be your last day on earth. If it is, will you be missed?

It's not too late to do something about it.