Jeremiah 17:5–10  |  Psalm 1  |  Luke 16:19–31

Today’s readings provide us stories of good versus evil. I dare say such battles, whether external or internal, are in our DNA. We can thank Adam and Eve, I guess.

Much to the enjoyment of movie-goers, we have been blessed with a few modern-day versions of good versus evil. Star Wars, Indiana Jones, The Lord of The Rings, and Harry Potter to name a few. In each case, there is a clear delineation between good and evil.

So now, let’s travel back many centuries ago to Biblical tales of good verses evil.

The storyline in Jeremiah 17:5-10 seems clear: Trust in the Lord over “only” mortal/earthly pursuits. Got it. Don’t be a shrub in the desert; be the tree by the stream. After many re-readings of Jeremiah and some online research, I have come to the conclusion God wishes us to follow Jesus, and make the most of our mortal/earthly treasures.

But wait, there’s more…

Luke 16:19-31 tells of a rich man and a poor man, Lazarus. Interestingly, Luke doesn’t even name the rich man, perhaps to lessen his dignity? Well, the poor man’s earthly life gives way to a life with Abraham in heaven while the rich man is doomed to torment in Hades. Abraham explains the rich man’s fate:

“Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things: but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony.”

Again, after reading this Gospel many times, the words “at his gate” spoke to me. The poor man was not hidden, but in sight of the rich man. Had the rich man made the effort to share some of his worldly treasure with the poor man this story may have ended differently.

Fast-forward to 2023. We don’t have to search far to find “the poor man”. He/she can be seen in city parks. At major intersections in many Rhode Island cities and towns. On public transportation. Perhaps at a mall seeking relief from the cold or a chance to use a rest room. If lucky, at a coffee shop.

So, what can Rob Walsh do about this? I can make the most of the gifts God has given me: education, employment, food, a roof over my head, family and friends… and do everything in my power to share these treasures with those less fortunate than I. Only then will I be blessed. In heaven and here on earth, often by those much less fortunate than I.

Rob Walsh

PS: St. Luke’s Mobile Loaves & Fishes ministry could use a few good men and woman. And young adults and children to hand out food and help distribute clothing in Woonsocket. God will bless you many times with “thanks and blessings” from those we serve.