XXXI SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (A)

First Reading: Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6

Second Reading: 1 John 3:1-3

Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12a

Solemnity of All Saints

Today, we celebrate all the saints, known and unknown, men and women of every race, language, and age. They remind us that holiness is not reserved for a privileged few; it is the vocation of every Christian. Through God's grace, we’ll become saints by remaining faithful to him.

Since our Baptism, God has called us to holiness. United to Jesus Christ, the Holy One of God, we are called to allow the Holy Spirit to transform our lives each day.

In the first reading, the Apostle John sees a multitude no one can count, standing before the Lamb's throne, clothed in white robes. They persevered through trials and persecutions. Their white robes remind us of our baptismal garment, which symbolizes our new life in Christ and our call to persevere in holiness until we enter the heavenly banquet.

In the Gospel, Jesus shows us the path to holiness through the Beatitudes: humility, mercy, purity of heart, peacemaking, and faithfulness amid persecution. The saints lived these teachings and now share in God's glory. As St. John reminds us, one day we shall see God as he is (cf. 1 John 3:1–3).

Dear brothers and sisters, the saints are not only people we honor; they are examples we follow and friends who intercede for us. Their feast reminds us that we, too, are called to become saints.

Let us ask ourselves: Am I allowing God's grace to bear fruit in my life? Am I living the Beatitudes? May the example and prayers of all the saints help us remain faithful to Christ until we share their eternal joy in heaven. Amen.