THE PROCESS TO ENTER SAINTHOOD BEGINS NOW
We celebrate All Saints Day to remind us that we are ‘all’ called to be saints now! We are informed that everyone who entertains the hope (of entering Heaven) must purify themselves, and must try to be as pure as Christ. When we look at the Beatitudes (Mt 5:1-12), we see the qualities and nature of Jesus in them. He is describing Himself. He is calling (Vocation) us to grow in His likeness of love, purity, gentleness, mercy, peace, and even to suffer for the cause of righteousness. The beatitudes reflect the Ten Commandments. The word Beatitude means Blessed, which demands a transformation from within, a conversion of heart and mind, to surrender to God’s Will, while living on earth. This happens when we allow the Holy Spirit to sculpture Christ within us. It all hinges on adapting the spiritual attitude of detaching our hearts and minds from sin and pride, because they promote idolisation of self and rejection of God. To be poor in spirit, is to depend on Jesus for everything. Poverty of spirit finds ample room in possessing God alone. It is a reliable recipe for sainthood. Mother Mary was blessed among women.
WE MUST HUNGER AND THIRST FOR THE SALVATION
OF THE WORLD
We must hunger and thirst to become saints now and have the desire to change my life for the better. The First Reading (Apoc 7:2-4.9-14), gives us a glimpse of what happens in Heaven. We are told that the Saints shout aloud, ‘Victory to our God, who sits on the Throne, and to the Lamb!’ The Angels prostrate themselves in giving glory, wisdom, worship, honour, power, strength and thanksgiving to God. We too, are given the sacred opportunity to imitate them, while living on earth, by going to Mass and worshiping God. It is a necessary act of faith, that we are commanded to do, if we intend becoming citizens of Heaven someday. We must begin to put Jesus first and foremost in our lives in order to become saints on earth. Those who oppose Christ and His Church are on the side of the devil, and unless they change, will never see Heaven. The fire of anger is always fanned by Satan. We must be peacemakers and not peace-breakers. The abuse mentioned in the Gospel, refers to Catholics being attacked by unbelievers, such as media and governments and society, because of our belief in Him. Jesus is asking us to practice the virtue of courage and not be afraid to enter on the road of Sainthood now. God bless, Fr. Brendan.