“But those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age
and to the resurrection of the dead
neither marry nor are given in marriage.”

luke 20:35

Luke 20:27-40

Reflection

The Sadducees question Jesus about the resurrection of the dead and how marriage would work in that instance, using the famous example of the woman who was married to seven husbands. Jesus explains that marriage as we know it will not exist in the coming age.

Sometimes it can be difficult for those married to imagine the next life without their spouse. For others, it might be hard picturing Heaven without their parents, siblings, or best friend. Yet Jesus says that we will be like angels and children of God. As Catholics, we believe in the beatific vision of Heaven, where for eternity we can marvel and truly see God. While perhaps difficult to comprehend or accept now, we will be so caught up in love and the fullness of God that not having that important person with us won’t matter.

This Gospel is a good reminder on how we must detach from all things, even the people we love most. It is not that we should forgo speaking or interacting with them, but rather, mentally and spiritually prepare for the next stage in life that holds Heaven and God himself, when we will be caught up in him alone.

Jesus has given us the gift of marriage, family, and friendship on earth – let’s cherish it now, while also eagerly awaiting our eternal union with God.

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Saint of the Day

St. Clement I: died ca. AD 99

“Let us fix our thoughts on the blood of Christ; and reflect how precious that blood is in God’s eyes, inasmuch as its outpouring for our salvation has opened the grace of repentance to all mankind.” Letter of Pope St. Clement I to the Corinthians