Our Gospel passage today tells of the rich man and Lazarus. After reading this passage we may ask; “do such people exist today?” Are there rich people who don’t seem to notice those who are poor and homeless? What about me? Am I acting in a similar manner? We know there are poor people in our community and some are unhoused.
This situation has worsened in recent years. There are rumblings of an effort to create a homeless shelter in the area, but it appears much work needs to happen to make this effort successful.
Most of us live pretty simple lives, we are not wealthy as the man Jesus describes in the parable. But many of us live pretty comfortably and have money to spare. We are called to support those who go without. The old tithing method was to give 10% to charity.
Perhaps give some to the Church to support the expenses and give some to local charities that assist the poor and needy. Operation Bootstrap is one example of a local non-governmental charitable group. There are others in our area, so please give some to the charity of your choice. If you are not able to give monetarily, could you spare an hour or two per week to help out at one of the local charities?
Jesus gave us this parable to awaken in us the need to help those who are
disadvantaged. Don’t just let the moment pass without doing something. Reflect on your blessings and pass them on! And may God bless you.
Deacon Ray