Readings: 2 Macc 7:1-2, 9-14; Ps 17; 2 Thess 2:16-3:5; Luke 20:27-38

It is apt that as we begin the Sundays in the Church’s month of remembrance that the readings should focus on resurrection. As we grieve the passing of our loved ones, the resurrection can be a comfort. They live again, with no suffering, potentially joining other departed loved ones. The first reading from Maccabees is an example of those who suffer in this life, trusting to God’s mercy and compassion. Sadly, contemporary examples abound, whether such examples are overseas or in Australia, like the murder of 15 year old Cassius Turvey. Belief in God’s love and justice keeps us sane and keeps us from despair.

Maybe we can emulate God’s justice by advocating for those in challenging situations. There are plenty of opportunities to do so, in terms of groups or activities to join. We do not have the power to completely change situations but by working with love we bring justice, and a type of resurrection, no matter how small. We also must not underestimate the impact of our example of working for justice can have on others.

As we think about our departed loved ones, our minds and hearts can go to negative, unhelpful places. Instead, may we remember their love – for us and others – that they demonstrated throughout their lives. Since we believe that God is love (1 John 4:8), let us think of our departed loved ones and their love being in God. May we remember the many promises of our faith, one of which we hear in today’s Gospel, that our God is God ‘of the living, for to him all are alive’.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.