How do I honor my family and friends that have died?
On Holy Saturday, we are in a time of sadness and loneliness as Jesus lies in the tomb. However, while we are in this day of waiting and watching, we are comforted in the knowledge that Jesus will rise from the dead on Easter Sunday, securing our eternal salvation and conquering death by the sacrifice of His life. Jesus, the spotless, pure Lamb of God, paid the penalty for our sins by this sacrifice, conquering death both spiritually and physically. We are assured that we now have the opportunity to join in eternal life with God after our earthly journey has been completed.
When we lose dear family members and friends to death, we deeply grieve those losses. In our grief, we draw comfort from our faith in eternal life with God and our belief that we will see our loved ones again when we pass from this life on earth to eternal life. While we wait for the time when we will see their faces again, it is important that we honor our loved ones and keep their memories alive in our hearts and minds. I honor my loved ones by praying for the repose of their souls, requesting Mass intentions in their names, lighting a candle in their memory, sharing stories and memories of them with others, and never forgetting them. It is a spiritual work of mercy to pray for the dead, and prayer joins us together as we entrust our needs and the needs of those we love to God’s care.
Have I prayed for my family and friends who have died today?
Thank you, Jesus, for the ultimate sacrifice of Your life that has purchased our salvation. As we ready ourselves for Your resurrection on Easter Sunday, I pray that my loved ones who have died are enjoying eternal life in Your presence and that we will be reunited for all eternity in Heaven. Authentically Yours.
Smitten With Goodness 