One recent morning, as I was praying, I had this overwhelming sense of joy. I was just filled with the very real presence of Jesus. As part of my normal morning prayer routine, I pray for those that have died. This includes naming my family members who have passed, along with others that have died over the past year. But it was different this morning.
I had a vision where as soon as I started my prayer for those that had died, I saw them all grouping together, waiting to see if I said their name. It was almost like picking teams as a kid, where the Captain of the two teams would alternate picking members for their team. Only in this case, there was just one Captain, me. And as I was going through my list of names, one person kept getting my attention, and that person was Fr. Ray. As I was going through my list of names, I saw in my vision every name I mentioned, they were overjoyed at being named, and crossed over to receive their reward. And when I finally mentioned Fr. Ray’s name, he was like a little kid, big smile, so happy I said his name this morning. When I got to the end of my list of names, I always include “and for all deceased family and friends.” It was at this point the rest of the “crowd” turned joyous and joined the rest.
Praying for those that have died, is important. It keeps those of us still living, connected with those that have died. And by praying for those who are still being purified, helps them get through the purification faster. For those that have completed their purification, when someone prays for them, they get a little “extra” recognition. In both cases, it brings them joy. And it should likewise bring us joy.
The joy for us is because we know what can be in store for us, when we die. It takes aware the fear of the unknown in this life. It helps us live a more joyful life today on earth. As we hear in the first reading:
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose hope is the LORD. He is like a tree planted beside the waters that stretches out its roots to the stream: It fears not the heat when it comes, its leaves stay green; In the year of drought it shows no distress, but still bears fruit.
Trusting in the Lord is so important during our life here on earth. It is like the tree planted beside the waters. When those difficult times arise in our lives, we don’t have to fear, we can remain joyful, like the leaves that stay green on the tree. When we encounter the droughts in our life, we don’t need to distress over it, we can still be productive, bearing fruit.
If you are struggling with trusting in the Lord, start by praying for those that have died. Mention those who were closest to you by name, in your prayer. Pray for those you know who have died recently. It is a way for us to do as we hear in the gospel reading:
Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to them.’
And as we do this, it will build on our relationship with Jesus. Allowing us to put more trust in the Lord, every day. And as we build on that trust, we will become more joyful.
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