Who is a saint?

Is it the one who wears saffron clothes?

Is it the one with long beard and locks of matted hair?

Or, is it the one who can do some magical acts?

All these qualities don’t necessarily make a saint. A saint is one who serves God with devotion, beyond the call of duty. Real devotion is unconditional and unmotivated service without any expectations.

Some of the characteristics exhibited by a saint can be the following.

A saintly person lives a life of detachment according to injunctions of sacred texts, knowing that everything belongs to God and must be used in the service of God and humanity.

Saintly people are impartial, serving for everyone’s welfare. In their hearts they do not reject anyone. Because they see God in everyone’s heart, they accept everyone as brother and sister even though by social or moral convention they may be considered fallen, sinful, or corrupt.

Spiritually evolved people don’t consider themselves superior to anyone. They offers respect to everyone whether older or younger in age. If asked to take a superior position, a saint will accept only in the mood of a servant with the consciousness, “If this is what pleases you, I will do it.”

Out of compassion saints go out of their way, taking many risks just to help others. They are ready even to take the risk of losing their piety and accepting others sins. They are always in the mood of being the servant of the servant of the servant of the Lord.