Nov. 1 is a traditional day where Filipinos would visit the cemeteries, reminisce the past, and remember the legacies that our loved ones left us behind.
Going back to the Bible, we can that the book of Acts has an open-ended closing. It is because we belong to a great story of faith. The story continues from generation to generation.
Let us be reminded of two things as remember those who have gone ahead of us.
First, remember the faith of those who came before us.
Hebrews 12:1 says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders… and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
The early believers faced persecution, imprisonment, and social rejection. Yet they persevered because they knew they were part of a greater story.
The same is true of us today. We remember them today not only with nostalgia but with thanksgiving because their labor in the Lord was not in vain.
As we visit cemeteries or necrological services, let us thank God for the faith of our departed loved ones. Their witness calls us to live with the same devotion.
We honor their memory best by continuing the mission they began.
Second, rejoice in the fellowship of the Living Church.
Philippians 1:3–5 says, “I thank my God every time I remember you… because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”
Paul wrote these words from prison, expressing joy that the Philippians continued the work of the Gospel even when he could no longer be with them. Their faithfulness showed that the mission of God does not stop with one generation.
The same spirit lives on in the Church today. We, the living Church, are their continuation. We are both the fruit of their faith and the bearers of their torch.
Let us rejoice that God is still at work among us. Let us serve together with joy, strengthen our unity, and renew our commitment to be the Body of Christ in this community.
Every member today is part of God’s continuing story. | NWI
