In the month of November, the Church prays for those who have died. As we close out the liturgical year, our readings also focus on the end of time. This weekend, we hear how those who have faith will shine and enjoy fulfillment with the Lord.

This week I have been pondering how to be “the wise” or “his elect” so that I may be with Him forever. I have focused on how to live right now in my earthly life. In my reflection and prayer, I have asked myself these questions:

• How am I using the unique gifts I have been given by God and am I using them to help others?
• Do I give Him thanks for each day and make the best of every moment since I am not guaranteed tomorrow?
• Do I love those around me with all my soul (those that it is easy to love and those who really challenge me, hurt me, or do not love me)?
• Do I forgive others, not holding onto past hurts and living with resentment?

These questions prompt me to think, am I living well right now to prepare myself for the end?

As much as we don’t want to focus on our time on earth ending, it will happen. Are we living each day in preparation for our time with our Heavenly Father? What do we need to change today, so we can be with Him for eternity? Let us ponder these questions in our hearts so we can “shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, and…be like stars forever.”