Luke 16.19-31, Pentecost 16C
Theme: The Saved
The stressful, rapid pace of our lives can cause us to miss opportunities. There are times when I am trying to get somewhere with such concentration while driving my car that I fail to take in the scenery along the way. I have been guilty of focusing so intently on a goal that I don’t see the beauty of God’s creation around me.
Even worse, I have watched people walking city streets so focused on something (a phone perhaps) they step over a person sleeping on the street without even being aware of them. To stop to give even a courteous acknowledgement of their existence can cause one to have to get involved with their life.
They don’t have time for that…!
The parable found in Luke 16 starting with the 19th verse is about two men. One is a wealthy man who always has plenty of food around. The other is a crippled beggar.
The parable carries a multitude of implications about how we, as Jesus’ followers are to treat those among us who are diseased and helpless and otherwise disenfranchised. The real bite in this parable is what happens to the rich man after he dies.
There are multiple other themes woven through what Jesus implies recorded in this small section of Luke’s writings.
What is Jesus trying to tell us in this parable? Is he trying to convince us of the importance of looking after one another? Why is the rich man not understanding even when burning in Hell?
Worship with us in person at 10:30 AM as we will be meditating on what our future holds. The service will also be streamed live on the internet -- (https://fccmaryvillemo.com) or on the church’s home Facebook page. If you miss the live stream, a recorded session is also available to view at your convenience. Want to make a comment on my blog? Click on https://fccmaryvillemosanc.wixsite.com/ftdo