Jesus IS the Resurrection ~ by Ronnie Archer

Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14
Ps. 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15 (15b)
2 Thessalonians 2:16-3:5
Luke 20:27-38

The theme running through today's readings is faith while here on earth in knowing that there is a life of joy for those judged worthy by God, after our death.

The story in Maccabees is about the mother and her seven sons who chose to endure a horrible, excruciating death because of the hope God gives of being raised up by Him. One said, "we are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of our ancestors." (2 Macc. v.2)

St. Paul, in writing to the Thessalonians, prayed, knowing that their hearts would be encouraged and strengthened, and they all would be delivered from wickedness, because of the faithfulness of the Lord.

In our Gospel reading, the Sadducees posed a cynical question to Jesus, trying to show the foolishness of the resurrection. Some Jews believed in the resurrection and some did not. The Sadducees believed differently. Not seeing the transcendence of God in reality, they discounted the story of the resurrection. In using the story of the "laws" of marriage, they tried to trap Jesus in admitting the resurrection was foolish.

The Sadducees did not understand the MEANING of the resurrection. In answering them, Jesus tried to show them that life after death would be very different from life ON earth. Those who God deems worthy to eternal life, are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise, but their bodies will not be as they are here. They will be like the angels and will have souls.

In our Creed, we say that we believe in the resurrection and life after death. God is the God of the living, not the dead. The only testimony that we have as to life after death is Jesus Christ. If we live as God wants US to do, we will live with God in JOY forever.

We pray in thanksgiving for God to give us grace to enjoy the blessings and joy of heaven. The RESURRECTION is the proof that Jesus IS GOD!

~ Clipart by Resources for Catholic Educators