Retreat, Day 3 - 11:30 Heaven

My notes after the preached meditation at 11:30 AM on Saturday, November 15:

Heaven is not an extension of the physical pleasures we experience on Earth. Heaven is not eternal rest in the Earthly sense of repose - a cessation of activity - an eternal sleep. The souls in Heaven are part of the communion of saints - with the souls in Purgatory, and the souls here on earth. The souls in Heaven are in communion with us - our friends - powerful allies who want us to join them. When we reach Heaven we too will work for and intercede on behalf of the souls still struggling on Earth. Make use of this communion. Pray for the souls in Purgatory, and they will pray for us. Pray for the intercession of all the souls in Heaven. They want us to be like them. Jesus compared Heaven to a wedding banquet - a royal meal - a thanksgiving feast.

Our family meals on Earth are an echo of the Heavenly banquet. How important it is to have places set - a nice meal - the lights just right - and most important, conversation with everyone. Everyone interested in and attentive to everyone else. In Heaven all souls are in direct communion with God, and so with one another. We should begin such a trend here on Earth. Everyone concerned about - in love with - caring for - desiring the best for - everyone else.