26th Sunday of Ordinary Time
Amos 6:1a, 4–7
Psalm 146:7, 8–9, 9–10
1 Timothy 6:11–16
Luke 16:19–31
One criticism of the Christian way of life often made through the ages – and prevalent now – is that in stressing the reality of eternity, engagement in this world is de-emphasized.
For some, the Christian perspective seems to be “pie in the sky by and by when you die.” The fact that Christianity encourages us to “take up our cross” and to learn from suffering also serves, critics say, to imply that we are complacent about the suffering of others.
The parable of the nameless rich man and the beggar Lazarus and the prophetic critique of the prophet Amos tell a different story.
People of faith are called by God in no uncertain terms to better the plight of those around them and create a world that includes justice and mercy for those who have been sidelined. As people of faith, in the Jewish heritage and in Christianity, we are called to rise from our “beds of ivory” to attend to others. When we fail to do so, the prophets and Jesus call us out.
The promise of eternity is not an invitation to leave the world in its sad state. Rather, it is a message of hope that suggests that even though our efforts might often seem to fail or be slow in accomplishing our goals, that in the long run, God is on our side and justice will prevail.
Woe to those who are complacent and do nothing in the face of injustice! Blessings are proclaimed, both in this life and in the life to come, for those who work on behalf of justice and for those who have not experienced what God has intended for all even in this world. Lazarus is remembered by name and is comforted in the bosom of Abraham.
In only three months, we will celebrate Christmas. The joy of the Incarnation of the Son of God offers a way of seeing this world that reminds us that our faith is not only about what will happen to us after our earthly life is over. The prophetic vision also suggests that we must see what is happening around us and commit ourselves to all that establishes justice.
Pope St. Paul VI is famous for saying, “If you want peace, work for justice.” Justice is not merely about giving each person what is due, though that is its center. Rather, justice is about opening up the fullness of shalom, a peace that is more than the absence or cessation of war.
We must be concerned about “competing well for the faith,” as St. Paul counsels Timothy. Our witness must provide evidence that we have allowed God’s love for the world to penetrate our hearts. Our actions on behalf of justice are to be directed not only to an earthly fulfillment, but also to the blessings God holds in store for us “in the bosom of Abraham.”
Who is at your doorstep, awaiting your acknowledgment? Can you open your eyes and be concerned not only about your own wellbeing and that of your family and your circle of friends?
The rich man carries with him a concern for the “success” of his brothers, even as he sees Lazarus as one who could offer him relief from his torment. Abraham reminds him that the truth is evident for any who have the heart to receive it. Can we open our eyes and commit to serve this world? Only then can we hope for the eternity of bliss promised to us.
The Gospel is not an invitation to forget this world and leave it as it is. Rather, it is a call to build up the kingdom among us.