Homily of the 26th Sunday in ordinary time
By Fr Oluwafemi Victor Orilua CSSp
Amos 6:1a, 4-7, 1 Timothy 6:11-16, Luke 16:19-31
Oftentimes, we accuse the rich of being Godless or assume that wealth makes it difficult to find time for God, thereby demonizing riches. Yet Jesus never despised the rich; rather, he condemned those who failed to see wealth as an opportunity to serve others. Our possessions are God’s gifts entrusted to us. When we use them selfishly and without compassion, they can lead to an irreparable loss in the long run.
In the Gospel, Jesus told the parable of a rich man who feasted sumptuously while poor Lazarus languished, unnoticed, at his doorstep. Both eventually died: Lazarus was carried into paradise, while the rich man was cast into a place of torment, with no opportunity for a second chance.
This gospel passage teaches that our life in heaven will be determined by how much good we do on earth. St. Thérèse of Lisieux, also called The Little Flower, once said, “I will spend my heaven doing good on earth.” She said this shortly before her death in 1897, expressing her belief that her mission of love and intercession would continue in heaven by helping souls on earth. This implies that she has devoted herself to serve the welfare of others while on earth.
The rich man did not end up in torment because of his wealth, but because of his insensitivity. We are called to compassion, not to wait until others plead before coming to their aid. Let us be intentional in our works of charity.
May the love of God within our hearts be constantly stirred, that we may serve him faithfully in our neighbours. Amen
