On the last day of March 2026, as Holy Week began, I wept openly and without shame. Those hours are forever etched in my memory, for it was the day my beloved daughter Catherine was laid to rest. The mass was presided over by my friend, Fr. Sol Gabriel, whose homily centered on the profound theme of death.
A Time for Soul-Searching
In observance of Holy Week, it is once again an opportunity for everyone to engage in deep reflection and soul-searching. Each year, in my own layman's terms, I have consistently reminded my readers of the meaning and fragility of life. This practice serves as a pathway to understanding our true selves and the essence of existence.
The Inevitability of Death
The biblical phrase, 'From dust you came, to dust you return,' resonates deeply. It is often said that from the moment of birth, our only certain direction is toward death—from womb to tomb. Yet, we should not fear death, as it arrives at God's appointed time. As a cemetery in Pampanga poignantly declares on its welcoming inscription: 'AKO NGENI, IKA BUKAS.'
Fr. Sol referenced this inscribed gate at a cemetery in Betis, Guagua, which loosely translates to, 'I died and lie here today; you will be tomorrow.' This stark reminder underscores the universal truth of mortality.
Death as a Divine Gift
Fr. Sol emphasized that 'the greatest gift God has given to mankind is death.' Many individuals, in moments of profound suffering, have pleaded with God to end their misery through death. Countless real-life situations involve people begging for divine mercy to alleviate their pain. In due time, God calls each of us to be with Him in His Kingdom.
Just as a shepherd leaves the flock to search for a lost sheep, God seeks to bring us back. It is my personal belief that God cleanses us before we enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Those who have sinned more may undergo a longer cleansing process, preparing them for eternal peace.
The Human Experience of Suffering
Even Jesus Christ, in His humanity, cried out, 'Father, why hast thou forsaken me?' when His body could no longer endure the agony. If our Lord expressed such anguish, how much more might ordinary mortals feel in their trials?
A Call to Contemplation
During this Holy Week, I urge each of us to contemplate our own existence. Focus on the fragility of human life, acknowledging that one day we will breathe our last. Strive to make a good accounting of your actions toward others by the end.
Human vs. Divine Justice
I often say that human justice is symbolized by a lady who is indifferent to wealth, appearance, or education, yet her ears might still be tempted by whispered promises. In contrast, divine justice—'husticia divino'—is perfectly just. God weighs right against wrong with absolute fairness.
If you have performed thousands of good deeds and committed few wrongs, sincerely repenting for your sins, God may, in the final judgement, reserve a place for you in heaven. This Holy Week, let us reflect on our lives, embrace our mortality, and seek spiritual clarity.
