The signs of the dead

Today's Reflections   

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Reflections

The signs of the dead

November 21, 2011

Luke 21:5-11

While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, “All that you see here – the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.”

Then they asked Him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.” Then He said to them, 

“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”

Reflection:

There will not be left a stone upon another. Do you think you will live and be remembered forever? Do you believe that what you have accomplished will outlive you? It is said that if you want to live forever, you must do three things.

First, plant a tree. Well, suppose your family thinks the tree is an obstruction and has it cut down when you are gone? Second, write a book. With so many books in the market, what if no one buys and reads your book? Third, have a son. What if your son despises you and erases you from his memory?

We want to live long, yet we hold on to things that do not last long even, like a tree or a book or another human being. If we want to live forever, let us look for and hold on to things that really matter and last even after we have long been gone. Or maybe better, let us not look back but look forward to eternal life.

Make your own list of things you want to do before you die.