Thursday, February 25, 2016

FRIENDS WITH THOSE HE LOVES

Jeremiah 17:5-10; Ps 1 Blessed are those who hope in the Lord; Luke 16:19-31

"Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings, who seeks his strength in flesh, whose heart turns away from the Lord.  He is like a barren bush in the desert that enjoys no change of season, but stands in a lava waste, a salt and empty earth."

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is the Lord.  He is like a tree planted beside waters that stretches out its roots to the stream.  It fears not the heat when it comes, , its leaves stay green; in the year of drought it shows no distress, but still bears fruit."


Which description best describes who we are and where we are in our life of faith?

Are we steadfast regardless of the circumstances because our roots run deep and have found themselves  intimately unites to the source of life and love?

Or do we falter with the circumstances of life?

Do we depend on things going our way in order for us to be happy or are does our soul rest in God alone and thus we bring happiness with us into all circumstances?

In the gospel we meet Lazarus and the rich man.  Lazarus is a beggar on the doorstep of another's home.  The only affection he gets is from the pity of the dogs who lick his sores.

The rich man pays no mind.  Day in and day out he walks right passed Lazarus with out ever a nod of the head or extension of his hand.

The one who has plenty hoards rather than gives.  Lazarus who has nothing at least gives the dogs the opportunity to be compassionate with their tongues upon his sores.

The rich man finds torment while Lazarus finds comfort.

The question is if we are friends of God are we friends with those who God loves.
"neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead."

Are we persuaded?
One has risen from the dead.
Are we content with our closets full of clothes and stomach full of food and health care at our finger tips?  Or will we cause a little stir to make sure the Lazarus of today experiences more than just the tongues of dogs upon their aching face?

Are we persuaded by the one who has risen from the dead?


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