The Rich Man and Lazarus Luke 16:19-31
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
Come and meet this person (Let us call him ‘Richie’ because he is very rich.
He lives in a well-appointed house, with heating and cooling systems, outdoor blinds and plenty of room for all his possessions. He has someone to cook for him, and he often invites his many friends to dine with him. There is always something left over at the end of the meal, and the cook puts it straight into the garbage bin so that the kitchen is always fresh and clean.
The finest clothes, the most up-to-date technology, a new electric car are all items taken for granted, because this man has a high paying job and a substantial bank account due to generations of affluence.
In his post box, there are often appeals from charitable organisations asking for support, but these end up in the bin, unopened.
Richie has never really had a conversation with a poor person. He knows there are people who pass his gate every day, looking longingly at his home and its contents.
‘Keep your eyes off me,’ he mutters to himself. ‘Go and get a job instead of sponging off us. You lazy people, it is your own fault that you don’t have what you want.’
And so the front door is firmly closed, and there is an alarm system installed throughout the building.
Outside on the street there are people sleeping rough. Not able to get a job, rising rents have forced them into the wintry city where they try to find places where they can have a simple meal. Often they will form small groups where they can find safety in numbers, and where they can share their stories and experiences.
Two different groups of people, completely separate from each other.
What might happen if people from these two different groups were to really listen with the heart to each other’s story?
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Do I take the time to be informed about people whose lives are very different from mine?
· When was the last time I spoke to a refugee?
· What do I do with the many appeals that come through my mail box?
· Am I aware of the needs of people in my own Parish, my own neighbourhood?
· Do I keep myself informed of the needs of our world – climate change, refugees, our own first nations peoples, lonely people, people with disabilities?
· What action will I take from this consideration?
Prayer
Lord, open my heart to hear the cry of the poor. Give me the generosity to respond to the needs of my brothers and sisters. Help me to follow your example of generosity and true charity. In Jesus’ name. Amen.