Readings
I - Amos 6: 1, 4-7
II - 1 Tim. 6: 11-16
III - Lk. 16: 19-31
CARE FOR THE POOR
All three readings of the day focus on caution and consolation at the same time: caution to the rich, affluent and the wealthy and; consolation to the poor, helpless and hopeless. In the first reading, Prophet Amos condemns and curses those prosperous people of Zion and Samaria who basked in riches, wealth and affluence but neglected the poor. In the second reading, St. Paul encourages the Christians to pursue righteousness, faith, love, steadfastness and gentleness to take hold of the eternal life to which we are called. The Gospel reading is about the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. The greatest sin that the rich man committed was that he willfully neglected the poor man seated at his gate. Hence the rich man inherited eternal condemnation and the poor man, at Abraham’s side. The suffering of the poor and suffering, for sure would secure for them a place in the paradise.
¬
Wealth and riches can be turned into blessing if they are shared with the less fortunate. If not, we will be the poorest and unfitting to enter into the gates of the eternal kingdom in heaven. Share and care for a happy life in Christ here and in the life to come.
