September 29 // 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I: Amos 6:1a,4-7
Responsorial Psalm 146:7, 8-9, 9-10
Reading II: 1 Timothy 6:11-16
Gospel: Luke 16:19-31

I wonder if the rich man in today’s Gospel was like today’s CEOs whose income rose an astonishing 940% since 1978, while the average worker’s pay grew only 12%, according to the Economic Policy Institute. Sadly, wage growth lags economist’s expectations for ordinary folks and fails many, including home health aides who are not able to pay for their basic needs.

Some wealthy people lobby the government to enhance and protect their wealth without concern for those who make the products and serve sick and starving humanity. Thank God there also are people who understand we are our brother’s and sister’s keeper. Some are highly paid CEOs who give generously for generations to come without letting anyone know of their generosity. Most importantly, they see people, listen to them and address them with respect.

The rich man in today’s Gospel seemed oblivious to poor, suffering Lazarus. The rich man wore every expensive clothing. In today’s dollars his clothes would cost nineteen thousand dollars. That amount of money could buy healing salve for Lazarus’ sores, soothing soup, a warm bath, a comforting bed, a change of clothes, with plenty left over to share with others in need.

This story of the rich man is the only parable Jesus tells depicting someone actually in hell!

We want to stay out of there! How? Notice people! Attend to people in need! Listen to them! Dine with them!

Blessings,
Deni Mack, DMin
Pastoral Associate
Church of the Assumption