Death is something most people fear. We fear it partly because we do not know what happens after death. We also fear it because it may be painful, and we do not want to be separated from our loved ones.
In death, the soul is separated from the body. It is not liberated from the body, but left incomplete. I have heard many people say they cannot wait to get rid of their body and become something greater. However, God created us to exist in unity as both body and soul. Although our bodies are separated from us after death, we will one day be reunited with them, and they will be glorified and perfected.
Jesus not only faced pain, suffering, and death, but also rose to new life with a glorified body. He ascended into Heaven, where He shares in the perfect love between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. While we will not become part of God when we die, we will share in the love of the Trinity for all eternity. We were all created to share in this love.
God’s love is unending, and He desires to share it with us. Many paths in life can bring temporary happiness, but they all pale in comparison to the paths that also lead us to God. We do not have to sacrifice happiness in this life to reach Heaven, but we do have to make sacrifices.
We should always practice the four cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude while keeping our eyes fixed on the true prize. Many smaller goals along the way can distract us from our Heavenly goal if we lose focus.
Jesus says, “Now this is eternal life, that they should know You, the only true God, and the one whom You sent, Jesus Christ.” When Jesus uses the word “know,” He is speaking about an intimate relationship with God. Satan knows about God, but he does not love Him. Simply knowing or believing in God is not enough. We must also have a loving relationship with Him.
Do not be afraid. Although death is an end, it is also a new beginning. Instead of spending your time worrying about or trying to avoid death, focus on growing closer to Jesus and God. When you truly know God, you will find the fulfillment for which you were created and your ultimate goal will be accomplished.
