Luke 16:25
My child, remember that you received what was good during your lifetime while Lazarus likewise received what was bad...
Readings for Sunday: Amos, 1 Timothy, Luke
Reflection:
The parable of the rich man and Lazarus provides insight into what it means to be “a good person.” The rich man lived in luxury, dressed in purple garments dyed from costly sea snails, a sign of immense wealth. Lazarus, by contrast, was homeless, sick, and so neglected that dogs licked his sores. When both died, Lazarus was carried to Abraham’s bosom, while the rich man found himself in torment.
What is striking is that the rich man had not murdered, stolen, or committed obvious crimes. By many measures, he might have been considered a “good” man. Yet he failed to recognize Lazarus as a fellow human being deserving love and respect. Even in torment, he treated Lazarus as an object to serve his needs. He asks Abraham to send him with water or to warn his brothers. His downfall was a hardened heart, ignoring the suffering at his doorstep and refusing to heed God’s word.
This lesson resonates today when we consider churchgoing and charity. A 2017 study from Indiana University revealed a staggering difference in giving: 62% of religious households donated to charity, averaging $1,590 annually, compared to 46% of non-religious households, averaging only $695. While some religious giving supports church institutions, much of it directly aids the poor through mission appeals, Catholic Charities, disaster relief, and other works of mercy. Churches also cultivate social capital, fostering generosity and service among their members.
Faith is not merely about avoiding sin but about continual conversion. More and more, we are called to love God and neighbor in concrete ways. As Paul urged Timothy, we must pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness, striving to “lay hold of eternal life.” Each day, discipleship calls us to see Christ in others, especially the poor, and to build treasure in heaven through generosity and compassion.
Reflection Questions
- In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the rich man’s sin was not active cruelty but indifference. In what ways might we overlook or ignore the suffering of those around us today?
- Today’s scriptures remind us that faith involves continual conversion, not just avoiding sin. What practices can help you keep your heart open to God and to the needs of others?