If I remember correctly, the motto of the Boy Scouts is “Be Prepared.” I was never a scout but their motto is good advice, for that is exactly what Jesus says in today’s Gospel. It almost sounds like He is trying to scare us into being good, and what’s wrong with that? Jesus’ words are strong and forceful because He wants his listeners to end up with joyful, everlasting life after their death. Some of the most beautiful and joyful masses I’ve celebrated as a priest have been funeral masses for folks who were, indeed, prepared. Their death was simply their final act on earth. God takes it from there.
