Which saints? All saints!

[All Saints Day, Year B, November 1, 2015 / Rev 7:2-4, 9-14 / Ps 24: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6 / 1 Jn 3:1-3 / Matt 5, 1-12a]

A young boy was on a tour of a cathedral and the guide pointed out the beautiful stained glass windows showing the images of saints. It was a sunny day and they were brightly illuminated by the sun’s rays. “Who are the saints?” asked the guide. “The ones who let the light pass through them,” replied the young boy. A very good theological response! Yes, it is those who have let God’s life, light and love shine through them, through their humanity, even through their weaknesses. Notice that we are asking who are the saints not simply who were the saints. We ask for their help because they are alive, alive and kicking in Christ and interceding for us.