Luke 16:19–31
In today’s scripture we meet an unnamed rich man and a disabled man named Lazarus. Jesus illustrates the ways in which the rich man is blessed. He has abundant food, he has a family and with it a sense of purpose and belonging. Lazarus goes without all of those things. Not because his disability or illness somehow prevents him from desiring such blessings, nor does it prevent him from receiving those blessings. No, Lazarus goes without because the rich man has decided he is not worthy to be a part of the community. He does not get a seat at the table. Interestingly enough Jesus found Lazarus worthy of being named in the scripture passage and the rich man remains unnamed.
In the afterlife Lazarus is said to be in community with Abraham, while the rich man suffers great torment. I do not believe that he is undergoing fire and brimstone torture. I believe the rich man is experiencing a great deal of inner torment. Torment at the realization that Lazarus was worthy the whole time, torment over the fact that he had failed to see Lazarus’ humanity. He must have felt immense shame, embarrassment, guilt, and pain over the fact that he did not provide Lazarus a seat at the table. He desperately wants Lazarus to put this pain to rest. He begs Abraham, “Please make Lazarus put out these flames. I am in agony.” Abraham does not let Lazarus put out the flames, which I imagine would happen through reconciliation and forgiveness of the rich man. A second chance at community and belonging for all involved. Maybe Abraham knew that for such a miracle to occur Jesus was needed.
I do not want to wait until I am in heaven to see the worth of those who are marginalized by society. While miracles certainly can happen in heaven to bring about reconciliation, I hope I can be a part of the miracle of inclusive communities here on Earth. I urge you to take note of those who are marginalized around you. What are you doing to actively include them in our church, community, and greater diocese?
Reflection by Grace Rice
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