your death is the end of the world... for you

St John Chrysostom talks to us today about being ready for the end of the world in A Year with the Church Fathers. He says that we should live every day in preparation of the end of the world... because each of us will die on one of these days, and for that person, it IS the end of the world.

It's a sobering thought. For many throughout history, it was very important to keep the fact of one's death in the front of their mind all of the time. Because that fact, which is true for each of us, brings out the best in us, or it should. It reminds us what is really important. What's worth investing our time in, focusing our thoughts on, using our energy to pursue. Should we chase money and pleasure? They won't mean anything on that day. Should we express our love for those who need love, especially the important people in our lives? That will mean the most when the time comes.

The end of the world is coming soon. For each of us. How does that change how we live?

God, thanks for reminding us of what really matters.