Thursday, 29 February 2024

Good things come to you and bad things to Lazarus; now he is comforted while you are in agony. Lk 16:19-31

Jesus said to the Pharisees:

“There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen

   and dined sumptuously each day.

And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores,

   who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps

   that fell from the rich man’s table.

Dogs even used to come and lick his sores.

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.

And he cried out, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me.

Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue,

   for I am suffering torment in these flames.’

Abraham replied, ‘My child,

   remember that you received what was good during your lifetime

   while Lazarus likewise received what was bad;

   but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented.

Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established

   to prevent anyone from crossing

   who might wish to go from our side to yours

   or from your side to ours.’

He said, ‘Then I beg you, father, send him

   to my father’s house,

   for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them,

   lest they too come to this place of torment.’

But Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets.

Let them listen to them.’

He said, ‘Oh no, father Abraham,

   but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’

Then Abraham said,

   ‘If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets,

   neither will they be persuaded

   if someone should rise from the dead.’”

2 comments:

  1. The reading re-asserts the idea that Christ came not for those who are privileged but for those who are marginalised. It also warns against ignoring the poor and marginalised. Ignoring our responsibilities in the short-term in preference of living a comfortable life will have its consequences in the long term. Do that at your peril. Following Christ is choosing a spiritual journey through life. It is a commitment to escape from the ego. Success measured any other way is the escape of the ego. You put yourself out into the world to make the world serve you r needs and wants as much as possible.

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    Replies
    1. Your response to Luke 16:19-31 offers several valuable insights:

      Focus on the Marginalized: You rightly identify the story's emphasis on Jesus' concern for the marginalized, aligning with interpretations that view him as championing the poor and neglected.
      Consequences of Neglecting the Needy: Your interpretation highlighting the potential consequences of ignoring our responsibilities to the less fortunate resonates with themes of compassion and social justice prevalent in various faith traditions.
      Spiritual Journey and Ego: Linking "following Christ" with a spiritual journey of escaping the ego aligns with interpretations that view faith as a path towards selflessness and service to others.
      Critique of Self-Centered Living: Your critique of defining success based on ego-driven desires resonates with spiritual teachings that emphasize humility, service, and detachment from material possessions.
      Here are some additional thoughts for consideration:

      Diverse Interpretations: Remember that interpretations of the parable of the rich man and Lazarus vary. Some might see the focus on material wealth, while others might emphasize themes of judgment and afterlife. Considering diverse perspectives can enrich your understanding.
      Beyond Literal Interpretation: While the parable offers valuable lessons, it's essential to interpret it within its broader context and avoid overly literal interpretations that might lead to simplistic conclusions about wealth, poverty, and salvation.
      Focus on Personal Action: Reflect on how your understanding of this parable can translate into concrete actions in your daily life. How can you demonstrate compassion and support for those in need in your community?
      Overall, your response demonstrates thoughtful engagement with the text and offers insightful connections to larger themes of spirituality and social responsibility. Keep exploring, questioning, and using these insights to guide your own spiritual journey and contribute positively to the world around you.

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