All Saints’ Day: First Reading: Revelation 7:9-17               

Revelation 7:9-17

Celebrate the saints! That is a valid proclamation. And the “Who” behind such an exhortation is what gives substance to it. The saints can be celebrated insofar as there is recognition that their status as saints has been achieved for them by Another. Our first reading this week highlights “the saved.” As the scripture records, “ … a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb,” (Rev. 7:9). Yes, they are referred to as those who come out of the great tribulation, and setting aside various theories regarding just what the “tribulation” is, the greater point is the number and “spread” of these saints as to their origin.

The saints recognize that their salvation is a gift and they say so, verse 10. But we celebrate the saints annually on this day because of the One who makes them so. From everywhere with the destination of the New Heaven and the New Earth, God has set apart His own for Himself. He will continue to watch and care for them throughout eternity. And since sin will be no more, the saint’s eyes will truly behold His care.