Our Scripture meditation is based on Luke 16:19-31, next week’s Gospel reading.
[19] “There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. [20] And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, [21] who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. [22] The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried, [23] and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. [24] And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.’ [25] But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner bad things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. [26] And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’ [27] And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house—[28] for I have five brothers—so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ [29] But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them hear them.’ [30] And he said, ‘No, father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ [31] He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.’”
This parable by Jesus is so sobering. We may not want to dwell upon this story, but it’s a still a message we need to hear.
Many during Jesus’ earthly ministry thought that a godly life was rewarded with temporal and eternal blessings. At the same time, sin could lead to suffering both here and in eternity. Jesus challenges this line of thinking, presenting the lame beggar as blessed to God. The wealthy man – who is not even named in the parable – endures eternal suffering.
Just being reminded of the reality of hell can cause us anxiety. The more we reflect on our spiritual condition, the greater the anxiety. In fact, doubts can start to form about our eternal salvation.
Before such thoughts take root, let’s confess that we are more like Lazarus than the rich man. We know the sins which form our own sores and scabs. Instead of looking to Abraham for healing, we see Jesus. By Jesus’ wounds we are healed. By Jesus’ resurrection our eternity with God is secured.
Until next week, the Lord bless and guide.
Kevin Wilson 360 