March 16, 2017 Thursday of the 2nd Week of Lent-A

Jeremiah 17:5-10

Psalm 1

Luke 16:19-31

I, the Lord, alone probe the mind and test the heart…  Jeremiah 17:10

Lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus…  Luke 16:20

Lord, this story makes me uncomfortable.  When you looked at Lazarus and the rich man what did you see?  What did you find in their minds and in their hearts?  You loved them both.  All we know of them is that while one lived well the other suffered.  The rich man did nothing to ease Lazarus’ suffering.  The rich man was only looking out for number one.  He had so many opportunities to help lift Lazarus out of his misery.  How many times, have I ignored Lazarus at my door?  Give me a compassionate heart so that I care about whoever you place on my doorstep.  I pray for a heart that is sensitive to the needs of the poor around me.  May I trust in you always to help me see you in anyone who is hungry, lonely, or cold.  Touch my mind and heart with your grace and open my eyes to see Lazarus today.  Amen.