1. The question of the Sadducees suggests that how we will be in the afterlife is a continuation of how we are here. The reply of Jesus affirms that we are important not because of any ‘status’ we might have but because we are children of God. Recall moments when you saw your worth, or the worth of another, as something other than worldly status.

2. A common tactic in an argument is to make fun of the position of another. Then one does not have to take seriously the view being expressed. Have you ever found yourself doing this? Have you experienced others doing it with you? What were the effects of such an attitude? Is there life here? If not, where have you found a fuller life?

3. Jesus used the phrase ‘Children of the resurrection’ to describe his followers because we believe in something that cannot be proven. Life can sometimes present us with that kind of a challenge – an invitation to believe in things we cannot prove: another person, a cause, the value of a course of action, etc. What has been your experience of believing and acting on this kind of faith?

4. At the heart of our Christian faith is belief that death is not the end. We believe that the relationship we have with God, which starts in this life, survives death and continues after death. We call this resurrection. In this month of November, we recall those we have loved and who have died. How has belief in the resurrection helped you in thinking about those you have loved and who are no longer with you?