SCRIPTURE: Luke 16:19-31
A reminder that when we interpret Jesus’ parables, the meaning is not in the details.
Jesus tells stories about dishonest stewards and unjust judges, to make a point.
This parable is not a description of heaven or hell, but about the main lesson.
This life is where our future is determined.
God has revealed everything we need to know to know that justice and compassion matter.
If we refuse to stand with God for justice and mercy, we will not stay with God for eternity.
Once the end comes, it will be too late to change.
If this life is a test – or an opportunity – to reveal what is in our hearts…
Then what is my life showing about me?
Am I ignoring the needy while I live in luxury – blind to those around me?
In this story, Lazarus was at the rich man’s gate; it’s not that he couldn’t see him.
Who is at my gate, my opportunity (or test) to stand with God for justice and mercy?
Jesus has done EVERYTHING (including rise from the dead) to show me and help me.
I have received His mercy – undeserved – will I do the same with others?
This life is my opportunity – my test – how will I finish?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You have blessed me with every spiritual blessing – and many material ones too. Open my eyes to see the opportunities at my gate.
Observation/Application
What do I see?
The rich man saw only himself and had no concern for those around him.
Lazarus saw the rich man and desired to eat – just the crumbs from the table would suffice. He depended upon others to help him because even the dogs licked his sores. Yet this man saw more even as his name suggests – God is my help.
Where am I looking? Just for today? All for me? Let the poor and needy look after themselves?
or
Do I look beyond today because I live for Jesus? All what I have is His and needs to be used for His kingdom.
The rich man lost sight of God. He became the ‘beggar.’
The poor man knew his Lord.
Where is my treasure?
I need to keep my eyes focussed on Jesus using the gifts received for His service and be a blessing to those around me. They must see Christ Jesus living in me. Help me to be a kingdom child each day Lord serving You and keeping my eyes on You.
O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s a light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!
Refrain
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
Over us sin no more hath dominion—
For more than conquerors we are!
Refrain
His Word shall not fail you—He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!