There is an ancient Christian devotion called “bona mors.” Essentially, it is a prayer that we might have a good death. By this, we mean that when we come to our hour of death, which most of us cannot predict, we will be at peace, reconciled with our neighbours and God, and happy. If we are surrounded by family and friends who might be praying with us or have recently received the Church’s
sacraments, then we may be relatively sure that we will be at peace with ourselves and God.
Of course, there might be some regrets or unfinished business. Death is seldom entirely convenient. It could overtake us unexpectedly, such as in an accident. At other times, we have months to prepare ourselves, such as when we receive a diagnosis of a terminal illness. A good death is often the result of having lived a good life. It is
not a good idea to hope for a miracle or a deathbed conversion, to be reconciled to our neighbours and God, having lived an angry and aggressive life.
There are various ways in which devotion is expressed, but they all focus on trying to imitate the life and ministry of Jesus. He was dying an excruciating, tragic death, unjustly condemned and sentenced by corrupt religious authorities, with the civil authorities not prepared to
intervene. He was reviled and tormented by crowds egged on by their religious leaders. His mother and disciples were standing at the foot of the cross, unable to do anything apart from being there.
Yet, he was able to make arrangements for John to support his mother. He forgave those who were persecuting him. Jesus offered assurance to the criminal at his side. After feeling completely abandoned, he was able to rest, at last, in
the hands of the Father. It was dramatic and painful, but Jesus experienced a good death. For every one of us, the circumstances will be different, but we can work to be in fellowship with Jesus when the time comes.
Reflections by Peter Knox SJ
