We are all called to holiness

Rev 7: 2-4, 9-14; 1John 3:1-3; Mat 5:1-12.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints, honoring not just canonized figures, but the countless ordinary individuals—our loved ones and neighbors—who allowed Christ’s light to shine through their daily lives. As a classic reflection notes, a saint is simply someone who “lets the light shine through”.

Our readings today provide a roadmap for this grace. In the first reading from the Book of Revelation, Saint John envisions an uncountable multitude before God’s throne, those who have “washed their robes… in the blood of the Lamb”. This reminds us that the saints were fully human, facing struggles and trials just like us, yet anchoring themselves in divine mercy.

In the Gospel, the beatitudes from Saint Matthew, present the upside-down value system of the Kingdom of God. While the world prizes power and wealth, Jesus proclaims blessing on the poor in spirit, the meek, and the peacemakers. The saints chose to mirror Christ by living out these values—choosing mercy, justice, and humility in ordinary circumstances.

Saint John further reminds us in the second reading of our profound identity as “children of God”. Holiness is a gift; we live holy lives not to earn love, but because we are already embraced as His children.

As we receive the Holy Eucharist, let us embrace our universal call to holiness, praying for the courage to walk the path of the Beatitudes with our eyes fixed on Heaven.