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As we approach the end of the
liturgical year the readings reflect a concern about the end times, that
is, the end of the world. The end of the world may be thought of from a
cosmic or a personal perspective. Either way, many people prefer not to
think about the end of life at all. Some are just too worried about
surviving in this life. Others find it simpler to limit their concerns
to this world. In today's parable of the wise and foolish virgins Jesus
observed that there are consequences for those who are prepared and for
those who are not.
Christian tradition is very clear about life after death -- there is
one! Today's new wave religiosity suggests that life after death is not
important because individual consciousness will somehow survive in a
kind of world-soul. While this may be a comfort for some, it has nothing
to do with the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. "Be watchful," he
tells us, "you know not the day nor the hour!"
For Christians the month of November is a month of hope. Our faith
transforms the sorrow of death into hope in the resurrection. The Church
reminds us that we remain in communion with those who have died. On the
feast of All Saints we celebrated the Church triumphant, our brothers
and sisters who reached the goal of heaven. On All Souls Day and
throughout this month we especially remember the "holy souls." Tradition
holds that even someone who has died in the state of grace may still
require further transforming purgation from our loving God in order to
experience the beatific vision. Those of us left behind can assist these
souls in need with our prayers and works of charity. Let us never forget
the people who were important to us in this life and all of the souls in
purgatory. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy
of God, rest in peace.
Amen. |
