Pursuing the Resurrection

The idea of the Resurrection is confounding for some. Trying to visualize the concept in the human sense brings many questions and doubt. Living out life with the goal life after death is equally as challenging for in doing so become afflicted and we suffer, but with the understanding that we will join others in the Resurrection.

The challenges of our day may not compare to that of the brothers and mother in Maccabees in the way that we are executed to appease an unbelieving leader and his audience, but we are confronted with decisions to live out our Catholic faith by our actions daily whether at work, home, or even the ballot box. It is difficult to live out this faith driven life. Decisions on what to watch on television, what music to listen to, engaging in the banter that permeates social media, and stances on Church teachings are made with the conscious reflection on what is means to be Catholic.

Challenged by those who do not understand our faith and view it as backwards or out of  touch with the times are many.  We find that there are those in the secular world who resemble the Sadducees with their theoretical questions and tests of moral relativism.  All the more reason to become more familiar with the teachings of the Church which have withstood centuries of challenges from the secular world.  Pursuing the Resurrection does not come without adversity. However, as Paul writes in Thessalonians, " the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one."
And it does seem like the evil one is everywhere.

Knowing that God is the god of the living should provide additional incentive to us as well. For some a keener sense of the word resurrection applies to their own life especially if they have overcome battles with addiction, disease, and personal hardship. With that new sense of life comes a realization that the resurrected Christ is indeed a part of them.  It is as stated in Deuteronomy 30 and I paraphrase "No longer must you pursue God in the sky or across the sea, but it is very near to you in your hearts and mouth, you must carry it out." With this in mind it is not for me to attempt to conjure up what the Resurrection will be like as in my limited capacity as human brings only futility. But what I can do is put my hope in the Risen Christ for life everlasting.