The Rich Man & Lazarus

The Rich Man & Lazarus –Luke 16:19-31
We spend a good amount time at church talking about caring for one another, especially those who might be challenged with illnesses, disabilities and economic strife.  This week our text from Luke is a parable about a rich man who ignored the needs of a poor man named Lazarus (not to be confused with the Lazarus of Bethany who Jesus raised from the dead.). When Lazarus died, he went directly to heaven to be by the side of the prophet Abraham. However, when the rich man died, he was sent to suffer eternity in Hades.  The rich man looked up to see all the goodness Lazarus was receiving in heaven, and he questioned why he must suffer and be tormented, while the poor man enjoyed the treasures of heaven? Abraham made it very clear to the rich man that Lazarus had suffered a great deal in life, while he had lived it up with many comforts and had good things. It is important to understand the parable is not about salvation, but rather how we take care of those with various challenges in life.  At Westminster, we have people from all walks of life, from various places in the world. Our members include people with a variety of social and economic statuses to individuals challenged with disabilities. Our backgrounds are vast, and some of us are newer to church than others. However, we come together to praise God and serve in Jesus’ name.  As we move about the community this week, be prayerful of welcoming everyone, for we are all deserving of God’s love.