Sunday, June 30, 2024

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ! 

The death of the body may touch many aspects of human experience and become one of our most common fears. Perhaps the dread of death emerges when confronted with profound suffering, facing the agonizing climax of physical ailments, and the heartbreaking separation from loved ones. Some of us may grapple with serious concerns when we find death elusive, shrouded in the impenetrable veil of the unknown. Per-haps our fear of death stems from apprehension about the final consequences, pondering the prospect of divine judgment, yearning for entry into the Kingdom of Heaven and concerning about final punishment on the last day. These fears can have detrimental effects, jeopardizing our happiness and peace in daily life, ensnaring us in worry, and undermining our hope for the future. However, they can also serve as positive forces, prompting us to prioritize our well-being, fortify our faith, cherish each moment more deeply, and navigate life with greater optimism. Thus, while fears can be perilous if unchecked, they can also be trans-formative, fostering resilience, and enriching our journey towards fulfillment and contentment. 

However, the death of spirit is always bad, unhealthy, and dangerous, especially when we are alive but for-get to live in love, hope, faith, peace, happiness, charity, and, in God. It happens when we focus too much on our body and forget about our soul. It happens when we prefer temporary benefit and forget perpetual grace. It happens when we focus too much on material treasure and forget eternal rewards. It happens when we have sight, but our eyes cannot see, our ears can hear but we cannot listen, and our hearts still beat but we cannot love because of our ignorance, jealousy, selfishness, and wrong decisions. It happens when we forget to worship God, obey His teachings, follow His guidance and surrender in His plan. Therefore, we must be concerned about this death clearly and sincerely before the death of the body. 

My brothers and sisters in Christ, 

Three readings during this weekend are very necessary when they give us important guide on a journey of spiritual growth through different aspects. The first reading prompts us to nurture our souls, reflecting on our choices and striving to align our lives with God's will. The second reading underscores the enrichment of our human spirit through acts of generosity and mutual care. Lastly, the gospel offers poignant stories illustrating how love, faith, and hope support our spirits and bring us to God's healing grace. As we reflect on these readings, may we safeguard ourselves from spiritual stagnation and nurture our vibrant life of both body and soul. 

Sincerely yours in Jesus Christ and Our Lady of La Vang! 

Reverend Kiet Anh Ta.