Isa 25:6-9 /Romans 5:5-11 / Luke 7:11-17 (Yr C)
If we know what the future has in store for us, then we would surely know how to prepare for it in the present.
We may not know what tomorrow may bring and that is why we say that the future is mystery.
However, there is one thing we know about the future that is a certainty - we will have to face death as our lives on earth come to an end.
And with that we cross the threshold into eternity, we cross into forever.
But even as we cross into that eternal forever, we would still want to be remembered.
And that is why the burial or internment ritual of the ashes is of importance. It marks our final resting place on earth.
And that is the sign on earth of our existence in eternity.
Today as we remember all those who have gone before us, especially our loved ones and friends, we may know where their earthly remains lie. It may be at the cemetery or at the columbarium.
In today's Mass of the All Souls, we pray for them. Beyond this, we can always visit them and offer a prayer for them that God will grant them eternal rest and peace in His presence.
Yes, those who have gone before us need our prayers. They need to be remembered as no one likes to be forgotten.
So let us not forget to pray for them, and remember them always. For where they are now, one day we will be there. And we would also want to be remembered.