One of the things that sets the lives of the saints apart is their unshakeable focus upon eternal life. They are willing to forsake all the pleasures of this world because they have a firm belief in the glory of eternal life. There is nothing else that can explain the willing martyrdom of so many of thesaints. Why would a person willingly give up their earthly life if they did not have something else to live for, in this case eternal life with God in heaven? It is quite a small logical step. Let me show you why.
Our mortal lives last on the average around 70 years. In some countries this extends to 80 and some even live to be over 100. Let us imagine that these years, however many, are full of pleasure and no pain. (This is obviously an exaggeration, but it is one that works against my argument yet I will choose to allow it to stand.) Heaven by definition has no pain and suffering. Life in heaven, again by definition, is without end. Simple mathematics tells us that when we compare a finite number with an infinite number, the infinite number prevails every time. Therefore, the experience of pleasure and joy in heaven will always be far greater than in our earthly life. It is now easy to see why the saints are willing to give up all for the Kingdom of God.
Each one of us has to reflect upon God’s call on our lives and choose whether or not we will follow it. We have to make a decision concerning our belief and trust in the promise of eternal life. Obviously, if we do not believe in eternal life, we would not be willing to forsake the joys and pleasures of this life. However, if we believe in eternal life, it is almost necessary for us to do so to some degree if our witness to the Gospel is going to have any credibility. James tells us that he will demonstrate that he has faith in Jesus through his works; the main way we demonstrate our belief in eternal life is by our willingness to forsake at least some of the pleasures of our earthly existence. The Church gives this a name: we call it penance.
Reflection Question:
When was the last time I did penance for my sins? Do I voluntarily take on penances or do I only embrace them in the context of the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
Jesus, help me to be willing to do penance for my sin and thus demonstrate my true contrition as well as to intercede for the salvation of others.
St. Massa Candida, pray for us.
