From the One Year Bible, we read today in Luke 16:19-17:10. We hear Jesus tell us the story of the rich man and Lazarus. It's interesting to note that the rich man doesn't have a name, but the poor beggar does. The first is last, and the last first.
But this is definitely a warning to all of us rich Americans. You might not be wealthy by American standards today, but all of us are rich when compared to the rest of the world today, and unimaginably wealthy when compared to the population of the world throughout history. And with great wealth comes great responsibility. We MUST take care of the poor. It's our duty, as Jesus's parable teaches us. We've been given so much, and we have a duty, and a divine calling, to use the riches God has given us in this nation to help those throughout the world who are struggling just to find good food and clean water.
What can you do? Well, it's actually easier today to help than ever before. Just do a quick search online and you can find lots of sites where you can donate to help those in need. Make sure you pick some good sites, as there are plenty that will take your money and not provide much help.
But giving your money can't be the end of it. Find a way to personally help, whether it's volunteering at a soup kitchen, buying McDonald's or Subway gift cards to give the poor and homeless when you see them, or helping build houses for the less fortunate through Habitat for Humanity. Whatever you do, find a way to give directly, and to reach out to the poor yourself. You'll find this giving is very rewarding, both now and in the life to come.
God, thanks for blessing us so richly. Please help us be responsible with our wealth.
No comments:
Post a Comment