Thoughts for the Day

Jesus said to them, 'Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomsoever he wishes. The Father judges no one, but has given all judgement to the Son, so that all may honour the Son just as they honour the Father. Anyone who does not honour the Son does not honour the Father who sent him. Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgement, but has passed from death to life.

Very truly, I tell you, the hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.'

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

The 2nd November is 'All Souls' Day', sometimes known as 'The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed'. It is observed by Catholic and most Protestant Churches, though there is a difference of emphasis by each. Roman Catholics believe in Purgatory where the souls of those who have died are being cleansed of their sin, with the prayers of the faithful helping those who have died to move forward towards Heaven.

Protestants have a slightly different belief, most feeling that those who die are immediately in the hands of God, who will judge them in love, and that God's mind cannot be changed. But 'All Souls' Day' does bring local congregations the chance to remember all who have died and to pray for their families and friends. Often churches will invite the families of those who have died during the year to a special service at this time of the year.

Perhaps today we can bring to mind those whom we have known who have died this year, and make a point of ringing or speaking to some of their family this day. It might also give us the opportunity to say why we are contacting them on this day, something like "The Church remembers all who have died on this day, and I thought of you!"

Lord Jesus Christ,
You have taught us that
those who die and who believe in You,
will be offered eternal life.
We remember today those we love
and whom we see no longer,
and we pray for all who miss them.
May we take your words to heart
and have faith in You and Your
promise of eternal life.
Amen.