Those who are faithful to recite the Rosary shall have during their life and at their death the light of God and the plentitude of His graces; at the moment of death they shall participate in the merits of the saints in paradise.
Like everything promised to those who are faithful , this almost seems too good to be
true. But it’s Mary so we know two things: the first is, that she’s honest. What she says
is true. There is no question about that. The second is that she is a mother and undoubtedly, loves to shower her children with gifts.
Have you ever spoken to someone, or read a story about someone, who has had a
“near death” experience? While I believe that people are telling the truth as they recap their experiences, my scientific brain often goes to thinking that some of these things happen as a result of oxygen deprivation to the brain and the physiologic changes that can occur. We often hear about bright lights and tunnels. In fact, the presence of light seems to be a consistent report amongst many. I have no idea if these occurrences related to light are visions of God’s light or if they are biologic in nature, but it does not change my belief in what happens to us after we die. And no doubt, any light emanating from God himself is going to be brighter than anything our human eyes have ever seen! Amongst the living, there are certainly people who radiate the light of God.
Their words, actions and deeds are often selfless and their presence warm and inviting. Sometimes it is difficult to describe the natural attraction we have to people who truly love God and live the Gospel. There is a magnetic pull to these folks and it only makes sense since we were made by God, for God. After exploring the promises of the Rosary, I imagine many of them are devoted to reciting the Rosary often.
When I think about my own transition from this life to the next, (God willing I will be
Heaven bound), I look forward to the promise of participating in the merits of the Saints. I have many favorite Saints whose intercession and prayers I have invoked for help. I try to imagine meeting my saintly friends for the first time, but knowing them so well already. Perhaps it’s like meeting in person someone with whom you have been communicating on line, but have never met. Only a thousand times better! For me, this promise makes imagining uncomfortable thoughts about death and dying so much sweeter and far less anxiety producing. I hope it does for you also!
Pray the Rosary now, celebrate with Saints later!
