What'll It Be Like?

Gospel: Luke 20: 27-40

We might not find the particularities of the question in today's Gospel to be very interesting or relevant.  The scenario is rather far fetched, and it reads like a nerdy thought experiment in a philosophy textbook.  In one sense that particular question is somewhat offensive, arguing over possession of a woman in the afterlife, but the context is a patriarchal society, and Jesus' answer is to our liking in that regard: there is no possession of anyone in God's kingdom.  That holds for this life and the next one.

But we are all curious about what the next life is all about.  As we get older we think more and more about it.  When we are close to death we begin to have dreams about our loved ones - spouses, parents, grandparents.  We see them as present in the room with us.  Those who have had these dreams and visions say it brings them great comfort and peace.  It is a glimpse for them of what lies ahead as death grows more imminent.  

Throughout November the Church has us think of the dead and our own impending passing.  How we live our life matters a great deal, not only to ourselves but to others.  Consider the memories we have of those who have gone before us, and know that others will have memories of us when we pass.  Have we been a positive influence on their lives? How will they see us when we pass?  Today is a day to light a candle for the dead, and one for our own memories and destiny.