What if the ashes remind us not only that we are dust, but that we are meant to refract divine light? Perhaps you already have loved ones who are doing so.
Beautiful thoughts, Sarah. I, too, often think about the people I have lost and will likely lose before I go, and it hurts me more than thinking of my own death.
Wow. I've long understood that you are a very knowledgeable, intelligent and insightful proponent of common sense and practical application of Good ideas. You write frequently on religious matters, but this article is, for me, a glimpse into how truly Spiritual you are. Having lost all my loved ones in the past few years, I certainly relate to your message. I will hold onto this article, and refer to it from time to time. I'm glad you wrote it, and I pray that your losses will continue to manifest blessings as you describe. Soli Deo gloria.
I think that the death of loved ones, and even of 'strangers' we hear of dying unexpectedly or tragically, is a 'love note' from God- He is reminding us of our own impending mortal death; those gone before us are constant reminders to us still on earth that the Joy of heaven can start already here in the midst of our pain and sorrows, as long as we realize that this is exactly what we ought to be doing: "carrying the cross of Christ." Our saving grace is our reliance on God's love to carry it well.
The older we get, our failures loom larger and larger! At 83, I see them much more clearly; even "Starkly," and it sometimes overwhelms! The ashes remind me that I am a "Work in progress." When my Mother died, we found this prayer in her handwriting, " Father, When You are ready to lead us through death to eternal life, be with us as You were with Your people of old. As the last breath of life pours from us, take away all fear, and let us embrace You with JOY. Give us the strength to die as did St. Joseph; with Jesus and Mary at our side." Amen Dad said that as the EMT's were reassuring her that they would take good care of her, she looked at them and said, "I'M NOT AFRAID!" I pray for that PEACE!
WE are neither the Potter, or the Potters Wheel, we are but the clay that our Lord and Savior works into his masterpiece. I aspire to be the best clay possible to aid my Lord's work!
Beautiful thoughts, Sarah. I, too, often think about the people I have lost and will likely lose before I go, and it hurts me more than thinking of my own death.
Wow. I've long understood that you are a very knowledgeable, intelligent and insightful proponent of common sense and practical application of Good ideas. You write frequently on religious matters, but this article is, for me, a glimpse into how truly Spiritual you are. Having lost all my loved ones in the past few years, I certainly relate to your message. I will hold onto this article, and refer to it from time to time. I'm glad you wrote it, and I pray that your losses will continue to manifest blessings as you describe. Soli Deo gloria.
Thank you. That was kind of you to say. I hope you find peace in your reflections thereupon.
Sarah is a sparkling gem indeed!
I think that the death of loved ones, and even of 'strangers' we hear of dying unexpectedly or tragically, is a 'love note' from God- He is reminding us of our own impending mortal death; those gone before us are constant reminders to us still on earth that the Joy of heaven can start already here in the midst of our pain and sorrows, as long as we realize that this is exactly what we ought to be doing: "carrying the cross of Christ." Our saving grace is our reliance on God's love to carry it well.
The older we get, our failures loom larger and larger! At 83, I see them much more clearly; even "Starkly," and it sometimes overwhelms! The ashes remind me that I am a "Work in progress." When my Mother died, we found this prayer in her handwriting, " Father, When You are ready to lead us through death to eternal life, be with us as You were with Your people of old. As the last breath of life pours from us, take away all fear, and let us embrace You with JOY. Give us the strength to die as did St. Joseph; with Jesus and Mary at our side." Amen Dad said that as the EMT's were reassuring her that they would take good care of her, she looked at them and said, "I'M NOT AFRAID!" I pray for that PEACE!
“In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread Till you return to the ground,
For out of it you were taken; For dust you are, And to dust you shall return.”
Genesis 3:19
WE are neither the Potter, or the Potters Wheel, we are but the clay that our Lord and Savior works into his masterpiece. I aspire to be the best clay possible to aid my Lord's work!