A reading from the gospel according to Saint Mark 12:18-27
18 Then some Sadducees, who say that people will not rise from death, came to Jesus and said,
19 “Teacher, Moses wrote this law for us: ‘If a man dies and leaves a wife but no children, that man’s brother must marry the widow so that they can have children who will be considered the dead man’s children.’
20 Once there were seven brothers; the eldest got married and died without having children.
21 Then the second one married the woman, and he also died without having children. The same thing happened to the third brother,
22 and then to the rest: all seven brothers married the woman and died without having children. Last of all, the woman died.
23 At the resurrection when they arise whose wife will she be? For all seven had been married to her.”
24 Jesus said to them, “Are you not misled because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God?
25 When they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but they are like the angels in heaven.
26 Now, as for the dead being raised: haven’t you ever read in the Book of Moses the passage about the burning bush? There it is written that God said to Moses, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’
27 He is the God of the living, not of the dead. You are completely wrong!”
Reflection: Mark 12:18-27
In the gospel reading above, the Sadducees question Jesus about the resurrection, attempting to challenge the concept of life after death. They present a hypothetical scenario about a woman who marries seven brothers, each one dying without leaving children, and ask whose wife she will be in the resurrection. Jesus responds with profound wisdom, highlighting a deeper understanding of God’s power and the nature of eternal life.
This passage invites us to reflect on the profound truths of our faith and the nature of eternity. Jesus teaches that life after death is not bound by the earthly institutions and relationships we know. Instead, it transcends them, offering us a vision of a life that is fuller and more glorious than we can imagine.
In our journey of faith, it is essential to recognize that God’s power and wisdom far exceed our human understanding. The promise of resurrection is not just a continuation of our earthly existence but a transformation into something wholly new and divine. This hope should inspire us to live with a sense of purpose and trust in God’s plan.
We are reminded that our relationships and experiences on earth are precious, but they are not the end. They are part of a larger, eternal story where love and life continue in a way we cannot yet fully comprehend. This belief can provide comfort in times of loss and uncertainty, knowing that God’s love and promises extend beyond the limits of this world.
As we navigate our daily lives, let us hold onto this vision of eternal life. Let it guide our actions, our interactions, and our hopes. Let us live with the assurance that God’s power is at work in us, leading us towards a future that is more wonderful than we can imagine. Embrace this truth with faith and hope, and let it inspire you to live a life that reflects the eternal love and grace of God.
*****
The question on the resurrection of the dead is not something that can be answered with precise description. Yet it must be taken seriously and not trivialized in any manner. It is because the resurrection of the dead is at the heart of Jesus’ teaching. He Himself has been resurrected and He is now sitting at the right hand of God the Father.
And so we look forward to own resurrection after the end of our temporary visit on earth. It should be our foremost goal – to be with Jesus in the mansion He has prepared for us. Yet it doesn’t mean we neglect our daily activities in the present. Our resurrection must be our inspiration to do the best we can in the here and now. That includes marriage and family life. Let us make our relationships at the moment as enjoyable as it can be for the glory of God. That is why there is absolutely no need to be too concerned of what kind of relationship we will have in the next life.
Indeed, the vision of eternal life may not be clear to us today but it doesn’t need to be. Saint Paul tells us that no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him (1 Corinthians 2:9). However, our faith in the resurrection of the dead is enough for us to live in joy and hope that our problems in life will soon end and that a mansion in heaven is being prepared for us (John 14:2-3).
Go here to read related reflection on the same gospel story.