EARTHLY AND HEAVENLY LIFE
Jesus said, “He who cares only for his own life will lose it; he who loses his life for my sake will find it” (Mt 10:39). The term “life” here carries a dual significance: it refers both to our temporal existence on earth and to our eternal existence in heaven. For those who view life solely through a worldly lens, its origin and ultimate purpose remain uncertain. However, according to the Bible, life originates from God and was sanctified until humanity’s sin tarnished it. Jesus Christ came to restore this sanctity and guide us towards eternal life in heaven. Thus, God’s creation and the sending of His Son have a divine purpose.
When people focus solely on worldly achievements and neglect Jesus Christ and His Church, they risk eternal destruction. Jesus posed the question, “What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?” (Mk 8:36). He emphasized that “life is more than food and the body more than clothing” (Lk 12:23). To the crowd, He warned, “Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions” (Lk 12:15). He advised, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be” (Mt 6:19-21).
God the Father granted His Son authority over all people to bestow eternal life. This life is attained by knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom He sent (Jn 17:2-3). Christians are called to seek eternal rewards, even if it requires sacrifices in this earthly life for the Kingdom of God. As James wrote, “Blessed is the man who perseveres in temptation, for when he has been proved he will receive the crown of life that he promised to those who love him” (Jm 1:12).
Catholic Teachings on Life
The Catholic Church teaches that the meaning of life is rooted in love – both God’s love for us and our love for God and others. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, man is created in the image and likeness of God, who is love itself (CCC 1604). St. Thomas Aquinas elaborated that all existence leads back to God, who is the very act of existence itself. Our existence is a testament to God’s love, as He wills our existence out of love.
The Catholic faith also emphasizes that death is not the end. Christians believe in the hope of eternal life in fellowship with the Triune God. This belief is shared across various Christian denominations, highlighting that life does not end in death but continues in eternal glory with God. The Church teaches that our earthly life is a journey towards this eternal life, and our actions here should reflect our ultimate goal of union with God.
REFLECTION
For us Christians, the teachings of Jesus and the Church call us to look beyond the material and transient aspects of life. We are reminded to focus on what truly matters: our relationship with God and our eternal destiny. The pursuit of worldly possessions and achievements should not overshadow our spiritual growth and commitment to God’s commandments.
We are encouraged to live a life of love and service, following Jesus’ example. By doing so, we store up treasures in heaven and align our hearts with God’s will. Our ultimate purpose is to love and serve God and others, which brings true fulfillment and peace.
As we navigate our earthly life, let us keep our eyes fixed on the eternal life promised by God. Let us persevere in faith, hope, and love, knowing that our sacrifices and efforts in this life will be rewarded in the life to come. May we always strive to live in a manner worthy of our calling as children of God, seeking to glorify Him in all that we do.