Today, we remember all the departed souls — our friends, relatives, colleagues, acquaintances. The list is endless. We also pray for the souls in purgatory. Today is a good day to reflect on our own life and its destiny. Ignatius of Loyola (founder of the Society of Jesus) offers us a worthwhile meditation. He suggests that we reflect being on our deathbed and how we would wish it to be. We begin by observing all the events of our life as one movie — the good and bad moments of our life projected in front of us. Would we be happy to watch our life’s movie? It is a very sober thought to meditate on death. It will come to us — we just don’t know the circumstance, the day or the hour. Therefore, we must be ready and vigilant at all times.
The Book of Wisdom offers some very helpful insights. The just are in the hands of God. If we have lived a good life, loving God and neighbor, we can be confident that we are on the way. Of course, we cannot judge. Only Jesus, the merciful judge, will have the final say as we leave our earthly pilgrimage. The author mentions that those who suffered in this life, even chastised a little, shall be greatly blessed. A reward awaits them, the reward of life eternal. Our lives are as gold tested in fire. We shall be purified before we meet our Father Creator. The promise for the just one is that of perfect bliss. The faithful shall abide with Him in love. Grace and mercy await those who are holy and have made their life a pleasing sacrifice unto the Lord.
Reflection Question:
What would I do if I knew this was my last day on earth?
Lord, grant me wisdom and the knowledge of the shortness of my life. Amen.
St. Maura, pray for us.
