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The Love that Compels

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Daily Scripture, March 16, 2017

Scripture:

Jeremiah 17:5-10
Luke 16:19-31

Reflection:

In this story Luke tells us that possessions are not a hindrance to discipleship, but brings additional responsibilities on those who possess it. It also happens that the “Pharisees were lovers of your monies.” (16:9) .    The Pharisees derided Jesus when he told them this.  In fact, literally Luke says that they “turned up their noses at Him!”  In Judaism possessions material possessions were supposed to be a sign of God’s favor.  In this story, the Pharisees are presented here as a slave to their possessions.

Jesus tells the Pharisees to make friends with the mammon as wickedness.  That is make wise use of  your wealth otherwise it will possess  you and make you its slave.  Jesus continues to teach that the  great acts of religion are Prayer, Fasting, and Alms.  In other words we are all called to serve the poor.

Recently, Pope Francis was asked about what to do when the panhandlers on the streets ask you for money.  Pope Francis recommended that you give him/her something if you are able.  The questioner says he would hesitate to do this because the money is likely to be used unwisely.  Pope Francis suggested that it is better to give something to the panhandler than not to give.  It is always better to respond in a spirit of compassion and not worry about how the money is used.

Jesus tells the story of the Lazarus and Dives.  This is the only parable in which the name of the recipient of the miracle is given a name, i.e. “Lazarus” (God helps).  In the Septuagint the rich man is named “Dives” In the parable Dives is introduced first.  He is dressed in “purple!”  Purple was a color used only for ranking Roman Officials.

Lazarus is covered with open sores.  He obviously is disabled, because he is “thrown” before the gates of Dives home.  All he desires is to eat the scraps intended for the dogs.  It was the crumbs of bread the diners used to clean the grease off their hands, and was thrown under the table for the dogs.  The dogs were allowed to lick Lazarus’ wounds.  It is not clear how Lazarus dies.  It could have been from freezing, or  disease or starvation.

Both Dives and Lazarus die.  Lazarus is “carried away” and Dives simply “dies!”  In the first part of the parable Dives was introduced first then Lazarus.  In this the second part of the parable Lazarus is introduced first then Dives!  For the first time a dialogue enters the story.  However, it is not between Lazarus and Dives, but between Abraham and Dives.  Abraham speaks for the Lazarus, the beggar who had no voice.  On earth he never asked for anything.  Here in the “bosom of Abraham” he says nothing.

Dives asks Abraham to send Lazarus to provide him with a glass of water.  Even in heaven Lazarus is a servant!  Dives knows Lazarus’ name.  Dives is so bold that he calls himself “Abraham’s son!”   Dives asks that Lazarus go and tell his brothers that they must change their lives.  Abraham says “No!”  There are not privileges for those who ignore the poor at their door.


Fr. Ken O’Malley, C.P., is the formation director and local superior at Holy Name Passionist Community in Houston, Texas.

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The Passionists

2 hours ago

The Passionists

A Passionist Prayer
December 6, 2019

From St. Paul of the Cross:
"When we are suffering, we express our human feelings at times and perhaps even cry like a baby. But we must always add the words of Jesus, “Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will” (Mt 11:26). Then continue to suffer, but be silent."

Dear God, when my life feels difficult, all I want to do is tell my woes to anyone who will listen – my spouse, my children, my neighbors, my co-workers. And then I want the hurt to go away magically. Hardly do I remember to be silent, rest in your mercy, listen to your voice, and accept that whatever burden I carry is one that can bring me closer to You. Here is my simple prayer: today, dearest Lord, be with me. Bless me with your strength and comfort me in the greatness of your mercy.

passionist.org/passionist-spirituality-and-prayer/
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The Passionists

6 hours ago

The Passionists

In Roman Catholic Church's this weekend there will be a Retirement Fund for Religious collection.

This 2nd collection continues to support senior sisters, brothers and religious order priests – including Passionists!

For some further information: www.usccb.org/about/national-religious-retirement-office/
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