Today is All Souls Day and Dia de los Muertos.

We remember all our loved ones, our friends, and people we’ve looked up to who have died.

Last night I put together my ofrenda, or home altar for my loved ones and friends who have died.

It is full of their pictures, some marigolds, candles and colorfully decorated skulls.

I keep it up for the month of November and pray for them each day.

This year I had to add my dad’s picture.

He has been gone for 9 months now, but as I added his picture, I felt the loss like it was yesterday.

At 6 o’clock this evening we will have the annual Mass of Remembrance.

I have gone to this Mass several times to support others who were grieving the loss of a loved one…tonight I’ll be there for my dad.

“Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour." Matthew 25:13

My dad’s death was completely unexpected.

That last thing Jesus said in this coming Sunday’s Gospel reading…well, it is very real to me.

We don’t know the day or hour of our death or that of a loved one.

I hope this truth brings patience, kindness, forgiveness, gentleness, and lots of love into my relationships.

And may this truth keep me close to Jesus, seeking to live as He calls me to, within His love.

Tonight I will pray for my dad, for my family, and for all of us as we remember those we have lost.

I will thank God for them and ask Him to bless us as we strive to “stay awake.”

Blessings of hope in Jesus!