There is something innate in human nature to want to live forever. Perhaps deep inside of our core there is the seed that was planted when the first humans began to inhabit the earth: the pre-original sin period when we were destined for immortality. Death entered the scene only after the great pride-ful disobedience. At any rate, the Egyptians emtombed their leaders in the pyramids along with ships, provisions and treaures to help them sail into a very comfortable immortality. The Greeks buried their leaders with crowns, jewelry and household utensils, among other things, to insure that they would be well equipped on the other side of the River Styx. The Chinese too believed in life hereafter and buried one prince and princess in jade suits sewns together with gold thread, in the belief that jade and gold would guarantee immortal life. For Christians, the belief is strong and much simpler. As Naaman found healing simply by bathing in the waters of the Jordan, we find bathing in the waters of baptism opens the door to immortality. Our faith is nourished by the Eucharist, the Bread of Life..."If you eat of this bread, you shall live forever." (cf Jn 6:54). What a great gift, not only eternal life itself, but also the direction and focus it gives us while we "test out" during this earthly phase of our life. With the promise of life eternal before us, so much else makes sense and governs the choices we make. Let us give praise and thanks to God for this great gift.
Bro. Rene
I will be away from Friday till Sunday night, not having access to e-mail...so fill up on this and perhaps some other favorite slices of Daily Bread. I will be speaking at Bishop Donahue High School in McMechen, WV and then attending a huge 10 year reunion of the Rwandan students who studied at LaRoche College.
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