Concern for the Poor

Luke 16:19-31

The story of the rich man and Lazarus speaks to the heart of what it means to love our neighbor. The rich man "feasted sumptuously every day" and wore the finest clothes, while Lazarus lay at his door step starving and ill. Not only does the rich man do nothing to help Lazarus in his earthly life, but in the afterlife he still demands that Lazarus serve him. This is a clear example of Jesus setting up polar opposite to make a larger point, but it carries a prophetic word for those of us who are blessed with possessions, good health, and a comfortable lifestyle.

How do you feel about the poor? If you are honest, do you believe that they deserve their place in life? That somehow they are poor because of their own choices or lack of hard work? Or do you have compassion for the poor, believing that regardless of how they got where they are they deserve to be treated like a human being, are worthy of respect, and are loved by God? I think this is a question for us to think deeply about, and examine not only our beliefs but our actions. There is, however, no question about how Jesus feels about those who are poor and those who are rich.

 

Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Luke 6:20

Woe to you who are rich, for you have receive your consolation. Luke 6:24

God has a heart for the poor that is rarely exhibited by the world. The Lazarus' of our world are largely ignored and made invisible. In today's political climate we treat programs for the poor as disposable and refer to them as "entitlements."  I wonder what Jesus would call them? Would he think that we should cut programs that help the most vulnerable live with dignity? Would he cut funding which feeds children and single mothers?  Would he cut funding for medical care for those in poverty?

When the rich man is tormented in Hades he begs Abraham to send Lazarus to him to relieve his suffering.  When Abraham refuses to send him back, he then begs for Lazarus to be sent back to warn his brothers. "Abraham replied, 'they have Moses and the prophets: they should listen to them." (Luke 16:29) The scriptures and Jesus are quite clear about loving our neighbor and having a heart for the poor. It is not a lack of knowledge which prevents us from following God's instructions, but a lack of will. This teaching from Jesus should be convicting for all who, like me, have their basic needs met and more. And while as individuals we cannot personally eradicate poverty or hunger, we can act. We can make a difference, however small it might be. We can have a heart for Lazarus. The choice is ours.