When someone we love leaves this world, the pain can be intense and long-lasting. Today's reading from Wisdom decribes this suffering: death can seem like a disaster or even a punishment (Wis. 3:2,4). It is deeply painful.

The same passage, however, goes on to describe another side to this sadness. The upright are now in God's hands where no torment can touch them. They are surrounded by God's love, grace and mercy.

Today, as we remember our friends and family who have died, we hear Paul's words of hope: if we have been united with Jesus in a death like his, we will certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his (Rom. 6:5). Baptism has made us children of God...and nothing can change this.

One day we will die. In the Gospel, Jesus encourages us to take advantage of this time on earth. Though it may be inconvenient or take effort, Jesus exhorts us to care for the sick, visit the lonely, or express kindness to a person in need. The path to heaven relates to the decisions we make today.

Jesus loves us deeply...he invites us to accept this love and share this love.