16 Mar
Thu
2nd Week of Lent
Jer. 17:5-10
Ps. 1:1-4,6
Lk. 16:19-31
(Ps Wk II)
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The parable in today's Gospel reading appears harsh, for it says that the rich will not get to heaven as they have their consolations on earth. Why did our Lord repeatedly warn us about this?

Are we not disturbed, or do we really think that only the rich are affected? Surely this lesson applies to us too. God expects His people to share their 'wealth' (which varies individually), and their talents with the less fortunate. He will not condone our going around, seeing what we see, and not lifting a finger to remove the misery and suffering of the poor and needy.

Jesus was a compassionate saviour of the poor. He was a social critic and when His time came, He gave of Himself on the Cross for you and me.

The choice is for us to make. Heaven awaits those who do good, for Jesus said, "you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous" (Lk. 14:12-14). The rich man in the parable did nothing to help poor Lazarus. Thus, he was guilty of the sin of "the things I failed to do". It was too late giving excuses after his death.



Gracious God, grant us the strength to commit ourselves to lives of service and humility to the poor and needy.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That young people who are searching for the sense of life may be understood, respected and accompanied with patience and love.
Elaboration

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