Luke 16:19 - 31

What most absorbs your time, your attention, and your heart?  In the parable of Lazarus and the rich man Jesus paints a dramatic scene of contrasts - riches and poverty, heaven and hell, compassion and indifference, inclusion and exclusion. We also see an abrupt and dramatic reversal of fortune. Lazarus was not only poor, but incapacitated. He was "laid" at the gates of the rich man's house. The dogs which licked his sores probably also stole the little bread he had for himself. Dogs in the ancient world symbolized contempt. Enduring the torment of these savage dogs only added to the poor man's miseries and sufferings. The rich man treated the beggar with contempt and indifference, until he found his fortunes reversed! The name Lazarus means “God is my help.” Despite a life of misfortune and suffering, Lazarus 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. He not only had everything he needed, he had wealth to excess. However, he was too absorbed in what he had to notice the needs of those around him. He lost sight of God because he was preoccupied with seeking happiness in material things. He served wealth rather than God. In the end the rich man became a beggar! Do you know the joy and freedom of possessing God as your only treasure? And is your hope securely anchored in heaven (see Hebrews 6:19)?

Our prayer today is that we increase our love for the Lord and that we would desire to be rich in the things that matter to Him. Then as God blesses us – with open hands and hearts may we freely share with others the treasure we have given.