During each mass, we have a mass intention. That mass can be offered for someone living or deceased. For the living, we pray asking for health, successful surgery, safe travels, a happy marriage, and many other intentions. But most times during the mass we pray for those of our loved ones who have passed away. We might remember them on the anniversary of their death, or on the day of their birthday. Also, we can ask God to forgive them all the sins and to open for them the gates of paradise. It is not only a good practice, but we are obligated to pray for those who have died and who may still need our prayers. We want them to be forever happy, to enjoy eternal life, to be saved, and holy. We want them to be in heaven as we ourselves also want to be there one day. The request of Zebedee’s mother from the gospel reading today may be shocking at first: “Jesus command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom.” And yes, maybe she asked for too much. But it is important to ask God to bring our loved ones to his eternal home, to heaven. “Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord…”
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