June 23, 2025
The Rich Man and Lazarus - Part 1
Luke 16:19-21
06/23/2025
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. (ESV)
During the first weeks after Pentecost, the readings for
each Sunday focus on the questions, ``What is the Church?''
``How are we saved from sin and death?'' ``What is the role of
good works in our salvation?'' The story of the Rich Man and
Lazarus gives us some insight as we ponder these questions.
There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine
linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at
his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered
with sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from
the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and
licked his sores.
As we consider the two men, the rich man would be a leader
in the community. Everyone desires to get on the good side of
the wealthy, even if the wealthy person is selfish and arrogant,
as we will discover was the case of this gentleman. At the same
time, everyone would try to avoid the diseased, poverty-stricken
beggar.
Both of these men are considered children of Abraham,
members of the Church. Both seek the joy of heaven, the peace of
knowing their sins are forgiven, that they are acceptable to God.
This week we will consider the Church, the people of God who
are gathered at God's invitation, as we read this story.
May our Lord grant you the peace and comfort which comes
from His promise of forgiveness and life everlasting. Amen.