First Reading: Amos 6:1A, 4-7
Reflection:
In this Sunday’s first reading, the prophet Amos proclaimed that the wealthy Israelites had become lazy and self-absorbed to the point that they did not even notice the collapse of their own culture. They protected themselves from woes by focusing on their own prosperity. Amos’ words were direct, ending with the prophecy that these wealthy people, who were looked upon as first in luxury, would be the first taken into exile to Babylon (away from their homeland, family, and comforts). This Sunday’s gospel reading will continue the theme and illustrate what this sort of self-absorption and neglect of the poor can lead to.
Second Reading: 1 Timothy 6:11-16
Reflection:
The first epistle to Timothy was written as a letter of support from a wise older teacher, Paul, to a youthful minister in Ephesus named Timothy. Because Timothy was so young, Paul tried to provide encouragement, instruction, and hope by urging him to remain faithful to his calling as a minister of Christ. Timothy made a “noble confession” of faith before the community, an allusion to his initiation in Christ at baptism, in which he would have given a profession of faith. Timothy’s confession is compared to the testimony Jesus gave before Pontius Pilate. Timothy lived among a hostile people. In fact, Paul was beaten severely and imprisoned in Ephesus for some time. To take on a leadership role in this community was a true act of courage. There is a reference to “the commandment” in this passage but it is unclear what is meant. It could be referring to a particular teaching of Paul that is implied, or to the pledge he made to follow Jesus in his baptism. Whatever it is, Timothy is to preserve it until the coming of Jesus. We too are challenged to remain faithful to the end. Whatever trials or persecutions we may face, let us remain true to the “noble confession” we made (or was made on our behalf by our parents) at our baptism. As we partake of the Eucharist, in particular, let us renew our commitment to Christ and heed the words of the Apostle Paul to “pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness,” so that each of us may “lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called.”
Gospel Reading: Luke 16:19-31
Reflection:
The gospel of Luke is filled with teachings about wealth and the proper attitude towards money and care for the poor. Luke’s audience members were primarily urban, educated, and used to being prosperous. But by being Christians, they were called to choose Jesus over material prosperity, and never compromise their beliefs for the sake of money. The beginning of the story of the rich man and the poor man (Lazarus) is not hard to imagine. The rich man of the parable lived in comfort, was dressed in finery, and was completely oblivious to the destitute beggar outside his door. Then, the situation became quite complicated after each man died. Each received his just reward. The rich man was in torment, and the poor man was with Abraham in the presence of God. The rich man had been used to being able to buy whatever he desired, and what he wanted was a drop of water to soothe his parched tongue. He asked Abraham to send Lazarus to deliver him. Even in death, he wanted Lazarus to serve him. But, the rich man was told that he had already received more than his share of good things; now it was Lazarus’ turn.The chasm that separated the heavenly abode from the torments of hell reflected the separation the rich man placed between himself and Lazarus on earth. When he had the chance, the rich man did not help Lazarus; now Lazarus was unable to help him.
Application:
In what ways are you like the “rich man” in the gospel? How can you be more like the “poor man”? Is there someone whom you have passed by, being unwilling to help him or her? This week, give your time and attention to notice and assist those in need.
