As the Church draws close to the end of the liturgical year, we are invited to confront the ultimate question: where are we going after this life? The early Scriptures wrestled with this mystery, but over time, through revelation and reflection, God showed us that death is not the end. The souls of the virtuous are in His hands. Those who trust in Him “live with Him in love,” and our loved ones who have gone before us are not lost—they are with God, awaiting the fullness of the resurrection.

This hope, however, is not passive. Faith is not merely believing in life after death; it is living each day in fidelity, charity, and obedience to God. Jesus reminds us in the Gospel that we do not earn salvation by our works, nor does God owe us anything. Everything we are capable of doing, working, serving, loving, is already a gift from Him. The true disciple recognises this and responds not with entitlement, but with gratitude.

To be ready for eternal life is to live a life of continual self-giving. We give because God has given to us first: health, resources, opportunities, relationships. When we give fully of ourselves, we will be at peace when the Lord calls us home. Our readiness for eternity is found not in fear, but in faithful, generous love.

Reflection Question: How is God inviting me today to live with deeper gratitude and generosity, so that my life becomes a sincere preparation for eternity?