Somewhere along the way, the holy part of that name got lost beneath costumes, candy and carved pumpkins. But originally, this was a sacred time to remember and honor those whose lives reflected the light of God. Until fairly recently, All Hallows' Eve was a moment of reflection, gratitude and hope, gratitude for the people who showed us what love looks like in action, and hope that we might follow their example.
We often think of saints as distant figures, people with halos and stained-glass. But the truth is, most saints are ordinary people who choose extraordinary love. They forgive when others can't. They show kindness when it's least expected. So as children roam the streets in costume this Friday night, maybe we can pause for a moment of quiet thanks for the saints who've shaped our lives, a teacher, a neighbor, a nurse, a parent, a friend. May this All Hallows' Eve remind us that life is precious, goodness matters, and love never dies. This is Dr. Scott Morris for Church Health.
