Today’s Scripture Readings

Gospel Reading

NRSV

At that time Jesus said, ‘I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. ‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’

On the Feast of All Souls, we gather in faith and love to remember those who have died and to entrust them to the mercy of God. Jesus invites all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens to come to him. This invitation speaks both to our grief and to our hope. In our sorrow, Christ does not offer easy explanations: he offers his presence and promises rest for our souls.

We give thanks for the lives of those we have loved – their kindness, wisdom, laughter and faithful presence. Their absence may leave a deep silence, yet the love shared with them is not lost. Even when death separates us, love continues to unite us in Christ.

Isaiah’s vision of a rich banquet prepared for all people points towards the hope we celebrate today: God will one day swallow up death forever and wipe away every tear. This promise does not deny our mourning: rather, it enables us to mourn with confidence that death is not the final word.

As we pray for the departed, may we learn to live with greater compassion, gratitude and trust. May Christ carry our burdens, console those who grieve and lead our loved ones into the fullness of life. May we rest in his invitation “Come to me” for in him every soul finds peace.

Who do you carry in your heart today?