Daily Reflection for Monday, November 02, 2020
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110220.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Wisdom 3:1-9
Responsorial: Psalm 23:1-3A, 3B-4, 5
Second Reading: Romans 6:3-9
Gospel: John 6:37-40
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him
may have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day. (John 6:40)
When a loved one dies, it is difficult to focus on these words. It is easier to be overwhelmed by feelings of sadness and loss. At those times, “the last day” can seem obscure.
The Monday morning after the 4th of July weekend in 1953, my mother’s parents who were visiting Indianapolis for the holiday were returning home to Cincinnati when they were killed in an automobile accident just outside Connersville, Indiana. I loved them as only a five-year-old child can love her grandparents. I lost my third son to gun violence. I lost my best friend to colon cancer. I lost my favorite priest and confidant to acute pancreatitis. At each loss, my heart was broken, and I was consumed with sorrow.
But on this feast of All Souls, and throughout November, I recall my deceased relatives, friends, and all the faithful departed who may yet be waiting for the full joy of heaven in purgatory. I pray for them, remembering these people being purified also have the power to pray for me too. It comforts me. I hope it comforts you too.
All Souls Day is an opportunity to put aside our sadness and celebrate the continuity of the Communion of Saints. It is an occasion to rejoice in the knowledge that the souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them.
On this feast day say a prayer for your loved ones and believe that their love for you exists beyond the grave and is taking the form of intercession for you and all those they love. In these times of turmoil and upheaval, always remember that Christ has said he will never leave us or forsake us.
Peace be with you my friends.
Melissa Kittrell