Seeing Christ in the Poor: Thursday of the Second Week of Lent

"Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:31-46

This parable of the rich man and Lazarus is unique to the Gospel of Luke. It presents a striking contrast between rich and poor.

"There was a rich man who dressed in purple and fine linen and dined sumptuously each day. And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores..." Luke 16:19-31

Despite his wealth, the rich man ignores Lazarus’ needs, and he doesn't even offer him the smallest kindness. After death, their roles are reversed: Lazarus is carried to Abraham’s bosom, a place of peace and rest, while the rich man suffers in agony. The parable echoes Old Testament teachings like Proverbs 19:17, "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done." It also reflects Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 25:31-46, where he identifies himself with the poor and says, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." The rich man’s sin was not his wealth itself, but his indifference. He did not hurt Lazarus, he simply ignored him. This parable can be seen as a warning: failing to see and respond with kindness to the suffering around us has eternal consequences.

The Teachings of Jesus

Jesus consistently teaches that earthly wealth and comfort mean nothing if they lead to selfishness. This parable reminds us that true richness is found in love and generosity, not material goods. The name Lazarus means "God helps", highlighting that God is close to the poor, the suffering, and the forgotten. The rich man’s plea that his brothers be warned is also a reminder that we already have the Law, the Prophets, and Jesus' teachings. We cannot wait for a supernatural sign from above to do what is right. We are called now to see the suffering of others and respond in love.

Reflect

This parable challenges us to open our eyes to the needs of those around us. True kindness is more than feeling compassion, it calls for action.

Who do we meet in our daily lives that is like Lazarus at our gate? Do we see the lonely, the struggling, those who are challenged or cast out of society? Do we respond with genuine care? Lent calls us to examine our hearts and recognize Jesus in those who suffer.

Challenging the Rich - Advocating for the Poor

St. John Chrysostom (c. 347–407) was one of the greatest preachers in Church history, which earned him the name "Chrysostom," meaning "golden-mouthed," because of his eloquent sermons. As Archbishop of Constantinople, he was a strong advocate for the poor and social justice, often challenging the rich and powerful.

"Not to share one’s wealth with the poor is to steal from them and take away their livelihood. The riches we possess are not ours, but theirs." St. John Chrysostom

Saint John boldly taught that wealth is not evil, but a responsibility and one that needs to be used to help those in need. His words reflect the teaching of Jesus in Luke 16, reminding us that ignoring the poor is a sin and that true faith is lived through generosity.

Pray

Lord Jesus, open our eyes to see those in need and our hearts to respond with love. Help us to break free from selfishness and indifference, recognizing you in the poor and suffering. May we live generously, knowing that true richness is found in love, not in possessions. Amen