September 29, 2019 Sunday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time-C

Amos 61:4-7

Psalm 146

1 Timothy 6:11-16

Luke 16:19-31

Blessed is he who keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed… Ps. 146:7

And lying at his door was a poor man names Lazarus, covered with sores… Lk. 16:20

Lord, this is one of those gospels that make me uncomfortable.  I ask myself why I am uneasy with this parable.  In all honesty, of the two people in your story, the rich man and Lazarus, I must admit to you that I am often like the rich one.  You have blessed me with so much and I know it all comes through your hands.   I think I’m a good person who cares for those around me who are in need.   The trouble with the rich man was that he didn’t even notice Lazarus.  He may have been too preoccupied with what he had and what he needed to do to keep it.  Lazarus is still with us today and very often on my doorstep.  I know that I too have stepped over him as I go about my business.  Lord, you have given me a generous heart.  Show me the Lazarus you have placed in my path.   Help me to see the needs of all the Lazarus’ near me.   And give me the confidence in your goodness to be a good steward of your abundant blessings.  Amen.