June 24, 2025
The Rich Man and Lazarus - Part 2
Luke 16:22-23
06/24/2025
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. (ESV)
This week we are considering the story of the Rich Man and
Lazarus, which Jesus spoke to warn the Pharisees about the love
of money. As you may recall, the rich man held a daily feast
while Lazarus starved outside the gate.
The poor man died and was carried by the angels to
Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried,
and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes
and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side.
We have no back-story on Lazarus, how he lived his life, how
he trusted in God. We know, however, that when he died, God's
angels carried him to the never- ending feast in heaven where he
was seated in the place of honor by the side of the first
patriarch, Abraham. On the other hand, we know the selfish rich
man may have been a community leader, but he cared nothing for
his neighbor, for those less fortunate. He trusted in his
wealth, not God.
In death, the rich man was alone, condemned for his lack of
faith in God's mercy. We know the rich man did not have faith in
God, for faith in God brings forth good works which serve those
in need. Although we cannot see into a man's heart, we can see
the fruits of their labors. After all, we confess that we are to
fear, love, and trust in God above all things, and love our
neighbors as ourselves.
The judgment was swift. Both men quickly knew their fate.
Lazarus was at the heavenly banquet, the rich man even lacked
water to quench his thirst.
May our Lord grant us faith which trusts in His promises and
bears good fruit for the benefit of our neighbors. Amen.