Hope in the midst of death

All Souls

Matthew 11:25-30

The main difference between today and yesterday is not just because yesterday was the Feast of all Saints and this day, we are commemorating all the departed; rather, yesterday, we celebrate our triumph in heaven while today, we are celebrating our healing from the world of sin and our hope in the Risen Lord.

This day is not just for our departed brothers and sisters, although we are prepared to offer the whole month of November to pray for the eternal repose of their souls.  It is for all of us, both living and dead as we are confronted with a reality that we all have to face squarely at the appointed time - the reality of death.

"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Cor 15: 55).  St. Paul challenged its power over people;  Christ, in his resurrection, emerged triumphant over death; he will surely save us from our own deaths.

How do we face the reality of death?

First, we are confronted with the reality that life on earth is temporary.  There is still another world to come, a world that is eternal.  Focus on the the world to come.  Better yet, start connecting our lives on earth with what is to come.

Second, we are confronted of our own helplessness to save ourselves.  Only Jesus can save us.  In this life, we may start by looking at this world through the eyes of Jesus.

Third, we are confronted that the world will be renewed only in Christ, in the fullness of time.  Let's now utilize every moment to live in hope that all wounds caused by sin would be healed and that we would use each moment to realize heaven.