We live in a world created by stories, and there are so many stories that still wait to be told. In her book, Cloister Walk, Kathleen Norris tells about a conversation with a monk that showed her something remarkable. After he had introduced her to other monks at the monastery, he said, “It’s time for you to meet the rest of the community.” She said he walked her over to the cemetery, and as they passed each grave, her host would tell her stories about the deceased. He had lived there for sixty years, and he knew them all.
Into such a world strides All Saints Day, and not a moment too soon. Some of us have forgotten the power of an openhearted tribute, and feel overwhelmed at the rancor and impatience we see all too frequently in our culture. And we may even feel that our saints have left us too early, and without adequate resources. But they have bequeathed us these qualities and stories, things that are just waiting to be named in the world, so that they might bless us all. As the writer of the letter to the Hebrews said, “By faith they still speak.”
Jesus modeled this in a story we read in the Gospel of Mark. He was watching people of great wealth leave large sums during the public worship. But he called the attention of the disciples to a “poor widow” who is putting two small copper coins in the treasury. Jesus wants his disciples to know that while the others gave from their abundant wealth, she gave all that she had to live on. Her story must be told, for in the telling, the community can be changed.
This is what we celebrate this Sunday in our worship. During the service, we will read the names of those in the St. Mark’s community who have died in the past year. We will also invite anyone to come to light a candle in honor of someone they are remembering. Those watching online will be invited to light a candle at home. The sermon is titled “The Power of Sacred Tribute.” Kathryn Holden will read the Gospel Lesson, which is Mark 12: 38-44. The Sanctuary Singers, accompanied by Matthew Wachtman, will present an anthem. We will have hymns, prayers and a moment for children.
If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for decades, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with those of you here in-person or joining on the live stream at www.smumc.church at 10:30am Sunday morning!