This coming Sunday is All Saints Sunday , a day we lift up the names of those who died in the faith within our congregation over the last twelve months. In the sense that United Methodists use the term, “saints” are not officially recognized patrons of various aspects of life to be venerated or portrayed in stained glass. Rather, saints are regular followers of Christ, dedicated to the Kingdom of God and used to make Christianity more appealing and possible.

Every Sunday that we share communion — as we will this Sunday — the Lord’s Table extends across time and space to include the victorious meal Jesus originated and to include all those who belonged (and will belong) to him.

If you have lost someone recently, this time of worship may mean something special for you.

In the story we will read from scripture Sunday ( Judges 6:12-16 ), we have the account of Gideon turning down the call from the Lord, delivered by a messenger. Or, at least, he tries to turn the call down, listing all the reasons he makes a bad choice to lead the Israelites against an enemy. He believes he is anything other than the “mighty warrior” the angel calls him.

What would you say if you got such a call? Indeed, how have you responded already when you felt a nudge from God? “I’m not the right person! I’m not holy; don’t have leadership gifts; I’d rather just be left alone”? Do you think any of your reasonable excuses make a difference to God?

Before the passage we use in worship, from the letter to the Hebrews ( Hebrews 12:1-2 ), those in the past who have been used by God are listed. Then the author turns to us and gives us instruction on how to behave as a representative of the Lord. 

Are you such a person? Don’t be so quick to say, No. For all those people who know us to be Christian or a member of the church, we DO represent Christ — for good or for bad — whether we want to or not. How are we doing on that?

I’ll see you Sunday in the Sanctuary at 9 am. As always, I would love to get your comments or questions. Just click here.