By Rev. Brian L. Kachelmeier
Throughout the church year there is a few times in which we undergo a dramatic transition in theme from one service to the next. For example, on the Last Sunday in Advent we make ready for the coming of the Christ by joining in the anticipation of the saints in the Old Testament times. Then on Christmas Eve, we celebrate the glad tidings with the saints that saw the Christ Child born in the little town of Bethlehem.
Another example is seen in the transition between the services of Good Friday and Easter Sunday. On Friday, we focus with the saints at the foot of the cross on Christ’s suffering, death, and burial for us. Then on Sunday, as the Lord opened the tomb He opens are lips to sing His praise with all the saints: Christ is risen! Alleluia!
As we leave October and enter into November, we change our focus from our fellow saints here on earth to those saints who are with the Lord. On Reformation Sunday we remember that day in 1517 when Martin Luther nailed the Ninety-Five Theses to the door signifying the reemphasis on the gospel as the true treasure of the church. Our focus is on the church militant that is still at war fighting the good fight against the old Evil Foe who tries to take away our treasure. Throughout our pilgrimage we put out trust in the strength of the Lord who guards and keeps us. He is our Mighty Fortress in whom we take refuge.
Then on All Saints Sunday, we celebrate the victory that we have in Christ. We give thanks to God for all the saints who have gone on before us who have fought the good fight and now rest from their labors. They confessed the name of Jesus and put their hope in His coming, suffering, dying, living, protecting, and fighting for them. All who believe on the Lord Jesus are saints both here in time and there in eternity.
