“My child…” Luke 16:25

“My child…” Luke 16:25

Today, Jesus speaks to us through a parable. Parables are one of the oldest teaching methods. They are short, symbolic stories that use simple, relatable images and symbols to teach deep wisdom and spiritual truths. 

The key figures in today’s parable are the “rich man,” “Lazarus,” and “Abraham.” 

The rich man represents a selfish, self-assured person who elevates themselves above others. This person distorts reality, placing themselves at the center of an illusory universe where everything and everyone exists solely for their benefit. In doing so, they create a chasm between themselves and true reality, as well as between themselves and others.

We notice that even after death, this “rich man” still hasn’t fully realized his situation – he continues to act as if he’s in charge, giving orders to his supposed servants. 

Lazarus, whose name literally means “the one whom God helps,” represents a person in need – someone who requires help. 

And here’s the paradox: in this parable, the one who actually needs help the most is not Lazarus, but the “rich man” himself, who has cut himself off from others by his selfish life. He is the one who ends up in mortal danger and suffering because of it. 

Abraham, the first patriarch of the Old Testament, “the father of all believers,” symbolizes God, who helps and teaches us, His children. 

Through today’s parable, He warns us not to create divisions, but to live in love and mercy toward one another. God, like a loving Father, cares for us and gives us to each other so that we may help one another. We are all necessary for each other. Every one of us holds the dignity of being God’s children. My help to another in need becomes God’s help to me.

Our shared Liturgy brings us together in God’s presence to recognize ourselves as part of God’s people, where each of us is a valuable blessing to others. 

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, 

Let us not create chasms between ourselves and those around us. Amen.

Fr. A.R.