Let us be on our guard while the promise of entering into his rest remains, that none of you seem to have failed. - Hebrews

In today’s letter to the Hebrews, St. Paul urges us to be “on guard” in order that we might enter into “his rest,” presumably eternal life. I’m reflecting on how best to do that.

At one time, being “on guard” entailed scrupulously following every church rule: for Catholics, no meat on Fridays, fasting during Lent, never missing Mass on holy days, and paying attention to the three principal parts of Mass so your attendance “counted” etc.

People of other faiths surely had their own versions of such regulations like Mormon colleagues who never drank coffee. But is the admonition to be “on guard” still just about avoiding sin and following rules or does it demand positive action?

I’ve known a lot of crusaders but none more delightful or inspiring than my friend Jane who lived her life “on guard” fighting for people on the margins. She entered into “his rest” two years ago but lives on in the people she touched. 

Jane was a retired Creighton Prep librarian and no plaster saint. Besides having a wicked sense of humor, she happily challenged the Jesuits who ran her school and our parish when she thought justice to powerless people like students was at stake.

She fought for services for the mentally ill and advocated for compassionately ministry to LGBT people like her transgender granddaughter. She volunteered with refugees and taught GED classes plus attending protests for peace and social justice.  In her funeral card, I wrote that she spent her life making “good trouble.” Neighbors nicknamed her “Red Jane.”

The most important thing Jane taught me was how to be “on guard” lovingly and joyfully.  With her beaming smile, she enticed friends to get involved in both her crusades and mundane volunteer projects by promising “we’ll have so much fun.” And we did.

I’m sure she’s enjoying her “rest” by keeping us on track. But honestly, Jane, it’s okay for you to rest now. You taught us well!