Can death teach us how to live?

We are struck by the harshness of reality and, consequently, reminded of our smallness...

As a leader/pastor of an evangelical community, one of the most dramatic and remarkable experiences I had was having to hold funeral services.

Anyone who has ever participated in a wake or burial can attest that being in front of a body – lifeless – is certainly distressing, regardless of whether it was someone close to you or not. However, despite the discomfort of such a moment, situations like this are capable of leading us to profound existential considerations.

I even believe that this is why the wise Solomon would have said that “it is better to go to a house where there is mourning than to a house where there is a party” (Ecclesiastes, chap. 07, verse 02, of the Christian Bible), because, by participating in moments like this, we become reflective, thoughtful and – even – frustrated.

We are immediately confronted with truths that, despite being undeniable, are not so convenient and therefore difficult for us to "digest".

We are struck by the harshness of reality and, consequently, reminded (by death) of our smallness, transience, and uncertainties, and that – perhaps – the only certainty (amid so many uncertainties) that we have is that of death, which will come to all of us sooner or later.

Benjamin Disraeli is right when he said that "life is too short to be small".

We therefore need to live and live intensely, live wisely, live a life that is relevant and meaningful. Without forgetting, however, that there is an afterlife that awaits us.

George Lucas.

Master in Theology.