November 1, All Saints

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face. — Psalm 24:(see 6)

Mass reading: Revelation 7:2-4,9-14 / 1 John 3:1-3 / Matthew 5:1-12

Toddling Toward Heaven

In today’s first reading, a vision of angels and “a great multitude” clothed in white fills us with hope as we realize that this sight celebrates not only the saints with God in heaven today but we here on earth who will join the heavenly host some day. We are called to be among that multitude, but that can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Where do we begin?

Blessed Mother Teresa once said, “In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love.” That simple yet powerful sentiment often helps me put things in perspective. Start small. I may not be able to bring about world peace, but I can plant seeds of peace in my home. How do we get to heaven? Baby steps.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be the saint You want me to be.