Blessed are those who trust in the Lord!

February 29, Thursday of the Second Week of Lent   
Daily Readings: Jeremiah 17:5–10, Luke 16:19–31

The Word of God comes to human beings in various ways. God speaks through nature, as well as, at times, through the prophets, women, and men of God. The rich man in the fiery flames of hell insists that if Abraham sends someone from the dead, he or she will be able to convince his brothers on earth to live a virtuous life that he failed to lead during his sojourn on earth.

God compares those who listen to the Lord and place their trust in Him to a tree that is planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. The benefit is that they remain evergreen and bear fruit in due time. Those who turn away from God are like a shrub in the desert, living in the parched places of the wilderness and an uninhabited, salty land. Lukan Jesus says, “Blessed are they who, in a good and perfect heart, hearing the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit in patience” (Luke 8:15).

The Parable of the rich man and the poor man or The Parable of Lazarus teaches us how to use God-given riches. The wealth with which God blessed the rich man does not belong to him alone. He should share some of that wealth with his less fortunate brothers and sisters. There is no need for the rich man to go in search of a needy person. Lazarus is at the gate of his house. All that he needs is a little food and a word of comfort.

Unfortunately, the rich man has no time or thought for this poor beggar. The scene changes drastically once both of them die. The poor man is in heaven on Abraham's lap, enjoying comfort and bliss, while the rich man, who enjoyed all the comforts of earthly life, is in unending agony. An insensitive person is blind, deaf, and dumb to the needy. How can he or she expect God to be merciful?

Call to Action for Catholic Living: How do I treat the poor and needy who approach me?