In the first and second part of this three-part reflection on being a saint, I introduced the concept of “saints” and the holy. This third part applies the two teachings to the invitation for us to be saints in today’s world.
In what ways can we then describe being a saint in today’s world? In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, the ancient teachings on holiness may seem far removed. But peel back the layers of modern life, and you’ll find that the essence of holiness — unity, love, and communion with the Divine and in relationship with one another — is as relevant now as ever.
Imagine a world where our thoughts and actions were aligned with a greater purpose. Our relationships and connections, both online and offline, were guided by kindness, love, and mutual respect. That’s the kind of world saints like Thomas Aquinas spoke about. It’s a world where we are in harmony with God, with one another, and with ourselves.
The saints are the shining beacons of light in our spiritual journey. Their unity of thought, love, and action with God heal. They aren’t just figures of the past. They were and are everyday individuals who respond to God’s call. Everyone is invited to the call.
This unity with God isn’t simply about ceremonies but a more profound connection, an inner harmony that makes the saintly actions resonate with love and kindness.
Bringing it All Together
To bring our three-part reflection to a conclusion, what then does it mean to be a ‘saint’ in our modern context?
Being a saint today doesn’t mean donning robes or withdrawing from society. You can’t run away from society or the world created by the Holy God. Despite the brokenness caused by individuals in the world, this world belongs to God, and children of God must shine the light of their heavenly Lord in the world He has made.
Thus, being a saint means finding that inner spark of the Divine within us, thanks to God’s grace, and letting it guide our actions. Whether it’s showing kindness to a stranger, being patient in a traffic jam, or choosing to love over hate in an online debate, it’s about living in a way that reflects a deeper connection with God.
A Three-Fold Communion
This communion with God is threefold:
- Communion with the Creator: Recognizing and cherishing the ever-present love of God, who invites us into a relationship with Him. When we embrace this love, we find a purpose beyond the daily grind. This deeper purpose harmonizes our aspirations, drawing us toward the Divine Will.
- Communion with One Another: In our interconnected world, relationships are key. Whether it’s our family, friends, the Church, or the broader online community, we’re invited to build bridges of love and understanding. We’re called to be a part of a more prominent family, the Church, where we can find strength and support in our journey. The saints belong in communion; hence, every November, we celebrate the communion of saints. You aren’t alone, neither am I. We have friends all over the world and in the heavens. Ultimately, we are in communion with God.
- Communion with Ourselves: Inner peace is a rare commodity today. Yet, by nurturing a deep-seated connection with God, we can find harmony within our thoughts, emotions, and actions. This brings more profound healing to the troubled, anxious heart. Holiness is the best medicine for anxiety. Communion with God is the ultimate cleaner of the human spirit and morals. This inner harmony aligns us with a divine rhythm, giving us the resilience to face life’s challenges and the moral clarity to act right.
An Invitation to All
Holiness, then, is not just for the saints of the past but for each of us, right here, right now. It’s about recognizing the divine whispers in our hearts and letting them guide us. It’s about embracing the harmony and peace of a life aligned with God.
In the end, as we cultivate this inner peace and extend its warmth to those around us, we not only find joy in our lives but also become beacons of hope for others. Embracing the virtues of love, patience, and humility, we celebrate the beauty of life and the promise of eternal communion with the Divine. Only then would everything we do be pure and in service of the Lord.
Therefore, I invite us to prioritize the yearning to belong to God. Let’s respond to this timeless call. Let’s embrace holiness, live in harmony, and make our world reflect the Divine love surrounding us. Such is the witness of the saints.
