When we do good, we are doing as we ought. We should expect no fanfare, no parades, no accolades. Jesus talks about this is today’s Gospel reading from Luke 17. He says, “When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’ ”
Most people are afraid of death. I suppose this is natural, because it stems from a fear of the unknown. We don’t really know what comes next. Or do we? If you read today’s first reading from Wisdom 2 and 3, you’ll get a much better picture. The bulk of today’s reading was given to us just days ago on the Feast of All Souls. “But the souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them…But they are in peace…they shall be greatly blessed…the faithful shall abide with him in love.”
Have you ever heard this old expression: We’re not physical beings on a spiritual journey, we’re spiritual beings on a physical journey? We must always remember that this world is not our home. We’re just visiting for a while. Now, we need to make the most of our visit here on the planet by loving one another and trying our best to accomplish God’s will for our lives. But in the end, there is much more. No more suffering. No more tears. As the sacred author tells us, “the faithful shall abide with him in love,” let us remain faithful to the end, that we may enjoy the peace, blessedness and love that is to come.
Father, we are but unprofitable servants. Help us to continually do your will, that we may live in peace with you forever, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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