Daily Reflection – 3/12/2020
Sacred Scripture
When the poor man died, he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, and from the netherworld, where he was in torment, he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. (Luke 16:22–23)
Reflection
In just two lines of scripture, we are taught about ourselves and reminded vividly of what is expected of us.
So, let’s begin with the self-revelations. Too often, no matter how much we believe in the teachings of Christ, we wind up being indifferent. It’s not by intent. But we get caught up in our life, our family, our needs, our pain. As life unfolds around us, we forget the less fortunate down the street, across town or in other places. Or perhaps we even develop compassion fatigue.
But no need ever escaped the eyes of Jesus Christ. We are reminded that we are his eyes, his hands, his feet. There cannot be indifference in our lives if we believe we are brother and sister to one another.
The second self-revelation is about our focus in life. We all like nice things and we are creatures of comfort. There is nothing to be ashamed of there. The issue is a question of focus. Many of the more prominent “developed” countries are surrounded by affluence. Yet, amid the affluence, there is great poverty as well. God’s economy is far different than the secular economy. In God’s economy, those who hold on possessively to what they have, lose it all in the end, while those who share generously receive back many times more than they gave away.
Lazarus understood that. He did not lose hope in God. His eyes were set on a treasure stored up for him in heaven. The rich man, however, could not see beyond his material wealth and possessions. He not only had everything he needed, he selfishly spent all he had on himself. He was too absorbed in what he possessed. In the end, the rich man became the beggar.
Therein is a promise for us. To never lose hope because our Father rewards those who trust in him. The name Lazarus means God is my help. Each of us needs to be Lazarus. Keeping our sight on all that Jesus taught, bringing His words to life in our life. Hebrews 6:19 assures us that those who put their hope and security in heaven will not be disappointed.
Prayer of The Day
“Lord Jesus, you are my joy and my treasure. Make me rich in the things of heaven and give me a generous heart that I may freely share with others the spiritual and material treasures you have given to me.”
Daily Note
“God made both the rich and the poor. So the rich and the poor are born alike. You meet one another as you walk on the way together. Do not oppress or defraud anyone. One may be needy and another may have plenty. But the Lord is the maker of them both. Through the person who has, He helps the one who needs – and through the person who does not have, He tests the one who has.”
