Wednesday, March 11

Scripture for the Day: Jesus said, ‘There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. He called out, “Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.” But Abraham said, “Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.”

He said, “Then, father, I beg you to send him to my father’s house— for I have five brothers—that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of torment.” Abraham replied, “They have Moses and the prophets; they should listen to them.” He said, “No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.” He said to him, “If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.” ’ – Luke 16:19-31

Reflection – Sheila Williams-Brown

I read this story with in a new light. During the 1980 and 90s, while working for the telephone company, I made a good salary and kept the girls in good schools and many activities. Although I gave to many charities I really did not give of myself. After being laid off by the from the telephone company I had to down-size from living in a rented house in North Stamford to an apartment in Glenbrook. Although I found another job it paid $20,000 less than my former one. I was watching out for the kids financially but not spiritually. I had to leave my husband and down-size even further.

At this time I found going to church a help for my stress levels and for friends for my children. Without funds I started volunteering more even though I worked three jobs. I found usefulness to my life.

Things do not make life more important to those you love if they do not know you love them.

To ponder and pray: Who do you relate to most in Jesus’ parable? Who do you want to pray for?