This Sunday’s Gospel gives us the parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31). The contrast is striking: the rich man, clothed in fine garments and feasting every day, and Lazarus, poor and sick, lying at his gate. After death, their roles are reversed—Lazarus is comforted in Abraham’s bosom, while the rich man suffers torment.

Jesus is not condemning wealth itself, but rather a heart that becomes blind to the needs of others. The rich man’s sin was not what he did, but what he failed to do—he ignored the suffering man at his very doorstep. In the end, his comfort had built a wall of indifference that separated him from God’s mercy.

The prophet Amos (Amos 6:1a, 4–7) warns against complacency in the midst of luxury, and St. Paul (1 Timothy 6:11–16) exhorts us to pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. Together, these readings remind us that Christian discipleship is not passive. It calls us to notice, to act, and to love in concrete ways.

As we near the end of September, the Church also celebrates the feast of the Archangels (September 29). Their mission reminds us that God sends help, guidance, and protection into our lives. Just as the angels are attentive to God’s will, we are called to be attentive to the needs of others, especially the “Lazaruses” who lie at our gates.

Let us pray for eyes open to the needs around us and for hearts willing to share God’s mercy with others.

Reflection Questions for the Week

1. Who are the “Lazaruses” at my doorstep whom I might be overlooking?

2. How do I respond when I encounter suffering—do I look away or do I engage with compassion?

3. What comforts or habits might be dulling my awareness of others’ needs?

4. How can I live more intentionally the virtues of faith, love, patience, and gentleness this week?

Prayer for the Week

Lord Jesus,
You teach us to see You in the poor, the suffering, and the forgotten.
Give me a heart that notices, hands that serve, and faith that acts.
Help me to live each day with love and compassion,
so that I may one day rejoice with You in eternal life.
Amen.

In Christ,
Fr. Matt