Fr Ron Johnson
REFLECTING ON GOD’S WORD TODAY…
Readings: Jeremiah 32.1-3a, 6-15; Psalm 91.1-6, 14-16; 1 Timothy 4: 12-5:8, Luke 16.19-31
From our Gospel to today’s we read:
‘… a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day.”
Immediately there is conjured up in the mind – great wealth, luxury, a beautiful mansion, glorious food, and much more. Then there is the picture of a homeless, bare-footed, shabbily dressed, probably unwashed man, called Lazarus. He has a name – he is a person – a human being. The rich man is nameless – he is ‘everyman’.
This is a memorable parable. Jesus is teaching his disciples and he does it with memorable stories. Jesus’ stories are for his disciples in every age and place.
They are for us in Australia today. We can reflect: who are the nameless rich – people – countries – churches, and who are those whose names we do not ask to know.
What are we to understand from Jesus’ teaching? – Our actions have everlasting consequences.
Paul when writing to Timothy in today's reading said: ‘There is great gain in godliness combined with contentment….’ ‘But those who want to be rich fall into temptation….’
Blessings, Fr Ron.
Fr Ron's Sermon 28th August is <<here>>
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