Jesus, the Rich Man and Lazarus
The Rich Man is clothed in fine purple garments while Lazarus is covered with sores. Day in and day out, he continues his sumptuous feasting while turning a blind eye to Lazarus’ hunger. Another contrast appears when the dog comes to lick Lazarus’ sores - the contrast between man and the animals. Paradoxically, the dog has more compassion for the suffering Lazarus than the Rich Man does.
Jesus uses the story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) to spark our hearts for others. If you are attentive to your surroundings, you will spot opportunities to “be as bread for others” all of the time (this term is from St. Albert Chmielowski). I was recently waiting to be picked up after Mass and a lady from our parish offered me a ride home. I thanked her and told her that I was waiting for my ride, yet it was meaningful to me that she had offered. Another time, also recently, the warm smile and words of encouragement from one of my fellow sisters truly uplifted me on a day when I was feeling blue. A genuine smile, a helping hand and a listening ear can really strengthen us as a people and unite us as One Body of Christ.
Later in our story when both Lazarus and the Rich Man die, the tables are turned. The Rich Man turns into the one asking for mercy, but it is too late. Jesus shows us that we have only one life to live, only the allotted time of our short lives to help our brother in need. Let us ask for the grace of open eyes and use the time we are given today to do all the good that we can for the people around us.
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