After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. ¹⁰ And they cried out in a loud voice:  “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

Revelation 7:9

In the greater church, November 1^st is the Feast of All Saints, a day to remember all those who now reside with God (both those we know and those we are unaware of).  It is often a day to remember our departed loved ones.

In Mexican tradition, it is Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead.  It is a day to honor those who have passed on and is celebrated with parades, food and special cookies called Sugar Skulls.  The celebrations are intended to remember that those who have passed are still among us (the biblical “Great Cloud of Witnesses”).

Other traditions around the world have similar beliefs (and most are around this time of year). 

There is something to these celebrations – death is not the answer, rather a gateway to the next life.  While it is always sad when a loved one dies, and we should mourn their loss, we also can celebrate their life and legacy, as well as their continuing influence on us.

So whether you celebrate with a Mexican sugar skull or not, take some time today to remember some loved ones.  Give God a prayer of thanksgiving for their continuing influence on your life and consider how you want to influence others.

Peace,

Pastor Bill