14 November, Thursday — Life, loss and being ready for God’s kingdom

Thursday of Week 32 in Ordinary Time

Phi 7-20
Lk 17:20-25

“The coming of the Kingdom of God does not admit of observation and there will be no one to say, ‘Look here! Look there!’

Recently, I witnessed the final chapter in the life of someone who was nearing the end. She had been battling cancer, and the treatments had ceased to work. With quiet dignity and the help of some distant relatives, she made the decision to enter a hospice, choosing to spend her last days in peace. She had always been fiercely independent, determined to face life on her own terms, even as her illness progressed. But in the end, her strength could no longer carry her, and the decision to enter the hospice was made out of necessity, not desire—because there were no other options left.

Her story, however, was tinged with sorrow – a once-close family torn apart by greed and betrayal. She had been estranged from her immediate family for years, an unhealed wound that shadowed her final days.

When she passed, there was no wake, no large gathering to mourn her. At the crematorium, only seven people stood in silent farewell. Most of them were former patients—testament to her extraordinary career as an OB/GYN. She had touched countless lives through her work, but in the end, those bound to her by blood were conspicuously absent. Only the estranged sibling and a niece, having flown in from abroad, made the journey to see her off. Their presence was clouded by unspoken tension, an awkwardness that weighed heavy in the room. Everyone knew the story of their betrayal, and because of that, few exchanged pleasantries with them. I couldn’t help but notice the expressions on their faces—a mix of guilt, and maybe even a hint of regret. It was a moment that captured the heavy weight of unresolved pain, a reminder of just how fragile relationships can be, and the high price of estrangement. In the end, she was laid to rest quietly, surrounded by the few who truly cared, but haunted by the absence of reconciliation with those who should have been closest to her.

She had meticulously planned for her own death and the details of her funeral, fully aware that no one else could do this. She appointed ‘executors’ to carry out her plan, but it was disheartening to witness how little love or regard they seemed to have for the remarkable person she was.

As I reflect on this event and today’s readings, I invite all of us to pause and imagine for a moment. Picture knowing the exact moment your life will come to an end. For some, particularly those grappling with illness or the inevitability of aging, that knowledge is a harsh reality. Now, consider it in your own life. What if Jesus were to tell you that tomorrow is your final day? Would you feel ready?

It’s likely that your mind would race to practical matters — sorting out finances, planning your funeral, addressing things left undone, and considering how your loved ones would be affected by your passing. Those thoughts would understandably come rushing in. But for a moment, set aside those worries and focus on just one question: are you truly ready to meet Jesus?

The reality is that no one knows when our lives will come to an end. “The coming of the Kingdom of God does not admit of observation and there will be no one to say, ‘Look here! Look there!’”  It could happen suddenly, or some of us may be fortunate enough to live to a ripe old age. I often wonder which path lies ahead for me. What if I were struck by illness and given just five months to live? Would I then turn toward what is simple and uncomplicated, just to have a fair shot at creating a meaningful life?

Or what if I were to outlive my loved ones? Would I feel a profound sense of loneliness, or would I have planned well enough to ensure my life continues with purpose? My hope is to live fully and intentionally, ready to embrace each day while waiting for God’s call to bring me home.

In this season of life, neither young nor old, I want no drama and no negativity. I seek a small circle of friends who share my values—those who can laugh with me, let me share my life authentically, and allow me to do the same for them.

After all, once you pass from this life, there is only one thing that will matter.  What will Jesus say to you?

(Today’s OXYGEN by Geraldine Nah)

Prayer: Lord, as I journey through this day, I invite You to walk beside me. Accompany me in every step I take and help mould my heart to align with Your purpose and plan for my life. Grant me strength and fortitude to face the challenges ahead, and instill in me a heart that seeks after yours. May Your presence guide my thoughts, actions, and decisions today and always.

Thanksgiving: Thank you, Jesus, for the countless blessings You have bestowed upon me. I am grateful for Your guiding hand in my life and for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who instructs and inspires me daily. Your love and grace are my refuge, and I cherish the peace and hope they bring. Thank you for always being my support and for filling my life with purpose.