All Saints' Day
By Ben Roberts 

Scripture:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1 (NRSV)

Devotional:
Another Halloween is in the rearview mirror. Hopefully, everyone is recovering from their sugar coma. During Halloween, we playfully poke at death and things that go bump in the night. It is a stark contrast to the very next day, when we remember those who have gone before us.

Many, if not most, of us come to faith through the witness of others. The Holy Spirit draws us into relationships with other followers of the Way. Over time, we are led into faith and become followers of Christ.

There may be people who come to faith by seeking on their own. I just haven't met any. Most everyone I know was led to follow Jesus by someone they knew—a parent, a relative, a friend, or a member of the clergy. Even as God's grace draws us into faith, his Spirit is at work in those around us, moving their hearts to lead us to faith. At a pivotal moment in life, many of us are led to faith by someone who loves us.

On November 1, we remember those important people who are no longer with us. This year seems more poignant to me. I attend the Friday morning men's Bible study, and so far this year, roughly half a dozen of us have lost a parent or close family member.

For me, it was my mother. I lost her on January 31.

What compounds the loss is that she was the person who brought me to faith. She introduced me to Christ, taught me all about the faith, showed me how to serve others, and endlessly engaged me in debates about all things theological.

I love the image that Scripture paints for us. Our faith is like a race, and we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses cheering us on. Many of us had role models who cheered us forward while they were alive. I would like to think that they continue cheering us forward, even after their race has ended.

I am grateful to God for sending me such a great role model of faith.

I suspect we all have someone who has played a key role in our faith journey. The question is: Do they know it? If they are still alive, tell them.

Today!

You will not regret it.

If they have already joined the great cloud of witnesses, light a candle today during communion. Let that simple act be an act of worship, thanking God for sending them into your life.

Prayer:
Abba, our most holy Father, thank you for sending us your Son so that we might know you. Thank you for bringing faithful followers into our lives to show us the way that leads to eternal life. As we remember those who have had an impact on our faith, open our eyes to those who struggle around us. Help us to lead others to your transforming faith, even as you continue to transform us.  Amen.