Reflections for Sunday
All Souls Day - November 2, 2003
The souls of the just are in the hands of God,
And no torment shall touch them.
In the view of the foolish they seem to be dead,
And their passing is thought an affliction,
And their departing from us utter destruction.
But they are in peace.
Those who trust in God will understand truth,
And the faithful will abide with him in love.
For he gives grace and mercy to his holy ones,
And he cares for those he has chosen.Wisdom 3: 1-3,9
Eternal Life
All Souls Day is a time of sober reflection. We remember those we love who have departed from this life. In their time on earth they bore many burdens, faced hardship and disappointment, struggled with sin. But now they are at rest with God. We pray that they are renewed by his mercy and love and filled with peace.
Turning our thoughts to them reminds us that we too do not have a lasting dwelling place here on earth. We were not created for this life only, but for eternal life with God. Our time on earth is a journey of faith that will someday lead to heaven. Our death will not be the end of all things but the beginning of new life in the kingdom of God. It will be a day not of sadness but of rejoicing. We will see God face to face and know the fullness of his love.
The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." The world accepts only what it sees; it lives only for the moment. It thinks it foolish to place ones hope on a world beyond the grave. But we trust in the Lord. We believe that God who created us for love will bring us to fulfillment in heaven. We do not fear death. Instead we say with the Psalmist: "I rejoiced when I heard them say, 'Let us go up to the house of the Lord.'"
Lord God, I long to be freed from the burdens of this earthly life and to be with you. But you know that I am not ready for eternal life. So it is your will and for my good that I remain in this life a little longer.
I will listen for your word and do the tasks you set before me today, for it is through them that I will come to know you and grow in your love. Keep me safe in your care and guide me on my journey, that I may one day join the company of your faithful in heaven.