Regrettably, there are people who think that, because they have been members of the Church for a long time, the Church practically belongs to them. For that reason, they must occupy a higher position. Or even get a higher benefit or reward. Consequently, they despise others as inferiors, and sometimes, due to overfamiliarity, they even trivialize the gospel or sacraments.
Equal Reward Awaits All
Certainly, each person is precious to God. So, no matter our positions (clergy or layperson) or the number of years we spend here on earth (long or short), an equal reward awaits us, which is eternal life. That is why we are told in the first reading to sincerely seek God’s face without delay.
No matter the gravity of our sins, God patiently gives us time to repent and return to Him (Ezek. 18:20–23), because His infinite mercy surpasses our human understanding and His ways of perception are different from ours (Isa. 55:8–9). Our knowledge and understanding are very limited.
Life and Death in Christ
Finally, St. Paul tells us in the Second Reading that for us to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Phil. 1:21). This means that, as Christians, our whole life and our very death must be for Christ and in Christ (Col. 3:1–5). Hence, our lives should reflect the gospel of Christ, for Christ is the reward of life. Therefore, since we believe in Jesus Christ, death for us is union and reunion—union with Him and reunion with those whom we have loved and lost awhile.
Prayer:
May the Holy Spirit give you the grace to accept God’s purpose for your life. Also, may you always discharge your duties faithfully and, in the end, gain eternal life as your reward, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Peace of Christ be with you…
Rev. Fr. Ben Okala, C.S.Sp.
