We Still Have Time
Don’t let the purple garments and fine linen throw you. We who are fortunate enough to not have to think about our daily needs being met don’t have to be dressed in fancy clothing. But it would not hurt to reflect for a moment on the unsettling parable of Lazarus and the rich man. Why? As Amos reminds us in the first reading, complacency isn’t an option. Perhaps one of the simplest elements of this teaching of Jesus is the fact that the name Lazarus comes from the Hebrew name Eleazar, which means “God is my helper,” or “God will help.” Lazarus had no one on earth to help him and so he trusted in God completely. Although this may not be easy for us to do, it is what God asks of us. This coming week, seek to know the Lord better through studying his word and seeking him in prayer more often. Allow him to walk beside you.
Who is “Lazarus” today? He could be the homeless person who smells of cigarettes and hasn’t bathed in a while, or the mentally ill woman who shouts at us as we walk by. Today’s readings challenge us to move out of complacency and judgment and, instead, see the poor as human beings deserving of dignity and care. Unlike the rich man in today’s parable, we still have time to reorder our priorities and find ways to close the “chasm” between rich and poor. As Pope Francis said during the Mass for the World Day of the Poor in 2021, indifference is not an option. The Church “asks us not to turn aside, not to be afraid to take a close look at the suffering of those most vulnerable.” Then, act. Today’s psalm tells us all we need to know: “Blessed he who keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry.”
If you encounter someone in need on the street, consider giving away socks, a gift card to an area restaurant, or simply offer a nod and a smile. Then perhaps seek volunteer opportunities near you.