“Your life consists in drawing nearer to God. To do this you must endeavor to detach yourself from visible things and remember that in a short time they will be taken from you.” (Blessed John of Avila)
Seeing my dad (69 years old) and brother Jim (33 years old) in a casket was a tough reminder of this basic truth, but it helped me to keep my eyes on eternity. The world will keep going without us, and eventually will forget about us…hence the need to grab on to God now, and help others understand that we are pilgrims passing through this world. Our true citizenship lies in heaven…personally, I pray for a heavenly “family reunion” every day.
Hi Fr. Michael – I assume you are talking about a very recent event. My condolences, that is a huge cross to bear. They say one becomes an adult when the parent of the same sex passes on. Despite having a solid theological grounding as a priest, it’s still a difficult experience. I know you you won’t be afraid to weep and be sad even as you look forward to that family reunion with your father and brother. Meanwhile, I’m sure you’ll find much comfort in the company of the Sorrowing Mother who wept inconsolably (I imagine) at the foot of the cross. Be assured of my prayers (for what they are worth!)
Hi Fr Michael! Thanks for the reflections! “Keep my eyes on eternity”. That’s a great little thought to reflect on during the day. Thanks. I hope all is well. God bless you!
Dear Father Michael,
My Mother died this Spring, March 20th to be exact. She was 83 years old, and lived a very full life…she was Zip-lining with us in Costa Rica the day before my son’s wedding! She was a true example to me of perseverance, determination, and prayer. She died of Acute Myleoid Leukemia, but continued to walk to church, when she hardly had the strength to hold herself up, and prayed the rosary daily with my sister, (who is ill herself), when she found it difficult to talk.
I can’t imagine how you must feel losing your father when he was only 69 and your brother who was only 33. Please accept my condolences and be assured of my prayers. Your Article on Detachment really spoke to my Heart. My Dad passed away five years ago, and now I am responsible for selling their home, (which just sold), and will have to dispose of their belongings…which will be hard but just knowing that someday we can all be together again in the company of Jesus is a great comfort. I will pray for the grace to keep my eyes on Eternity and be an encouragement to all of those who God has put in my life. God has given you a very special and very very important vocation. You will remain in my prayers Father.
So sorry to hear about your loss, Father.
V. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.
R. And let perpetual light shine upon them.
V. May they rest in peace.
R. Amen.
V. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
R. Amen.
May the love of God and the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ bless us and console us and gently wipe every tear from our eyes: in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
R. Amen.