Thursday of the Second Week
An unnamed rich man clothed in purple robes and expensive linen lives inside a gate feasting on all the pleasures and luxuries that money can buy. A poor man named Lazarus covered in sores barely survives outside the gate, — hungry, suffering, ignored.
The story flips after the two men die. There is a reversal of fortunes: Lazarus is carried away by the angels and is united with Abraham. The rich man descends into hell and becomes thirsty and unreachable as he remains unnamed.
This meaningful, yet unambiguous parable built on contrasts, may be particularly poignant now. At this time, when we are closing in on ourselves, closing our doors against the pandemic, safeguarding our personal fortunes, fearful of losing our wealth and our livelihoods, how can we still extend ourselves to those in need? This is the question that is asked of us today.
The Gospel begs: How can we open our eyes, our hearts, our hands, and our doors, to the poor? Right here. Right now. Even in the middle of a pandemic.
May I be like the tree planted besides the waters that stretches herself to the stream. In this year of drought, may my leaves stay green for those that surround me. Grant me a generous heart. May I seek and comfort Lazarus all the days of my life. Amen.
Antonia Messuri, Assistant Dean of Academics, Director of the Office of Accessibility Services
First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-10
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Gospel: Luke 16:19-31
Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website
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