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March 17, 2022The most pitiable of all creatures in the scene of Lazarus and the Rich man is the rich man. For his life is a game of taking calculated risks at his ability to profit from others. Lazarus is a zero-sum game for the rich man: 100% risk, no return… in worldly thinking. Lazarus is Christ offering the rich man eternal life – wealth beyond his wildest dreams, treasure like no other. The rich man is blinded by his love of the world. Like most modern-day wealthy narcissists, there probably exists behind this man a trail of tears of those from whom he has profited and left hurt or harmed, those perhaps with whom he was dishonest in conduct and speech, and perhaps a trail of others whose reputations he destroyed with words in order that he might elevate himself. All the rich man’s trust was in human beings. Somewhere in the rich man is a part of all of us. All of Lazarus’ trust was in God, yet his needs could only be met by other human beings. Lazarus’ trust was certainly not in the rich man’s response.
When faced with an opportunity to give of my time, talent, or tithes, do I calculate the risk? Or do I risk it all? Do I expect anything in return from the recipient? Or do I look to God for everything I need and still my soul? Do I respond with, “I do not have the time, money or energy right now.” or do I change my calendar, budget and plans? When faced with Christ in Lazarus, who may or may not be Christian and may never become Christian, who may or may not have good intentions with our generosity, how do I respond?
Probe and provoke my heart, dear Lord. Illumine my mind with good intentions; give me a new mind of Christ that does not calculate the cost nor expect the return. Help me follow Christ, to be like he was even upon His “Via Dolorosa,” taking the ultimate risk of all: offering His love to every soul He met along the way.
I, the LORD, alone probe the mind and test the heart, To reward everyone according to his ways, according to the merit of his deeds. Jeremiah 17:10
