What A Way To Live!

Looking back almost two months to the terrible events of September 11th, we recall the moving eulogy transmitted worldwide during the funeral services for the New York City Fire Department Chaplain, Father Michael Judge.

This heroic priest was killed while he administered the last rites to a dying firefighter. In his tribute to the fallen hero, the eulogist pointed out that, in his final moments, Father Judge was,

1.) “Where the action was”
2.) “Praying”
3.) “Talking to God”
4.) “Serving his fellow-man”

Then, the eulogist added,

Can anyone think of a better way to die?”

When we speak of death, our thoughts immediately turn to the question of the afterlife. Afterlife! That is the question raised in today’s Gospel Lesson by certain religious leaders seeking to embarrass Jesus.

Luke tells us that “Some Sadducees, those who say that there is no Resurrection, approached Him, and asked Him a question about the afterlife.” They want Jesus to tell them what happens when…