Thursday of the 2nd week of Lent
Theme: Your loyalty
In our 1st reading today, the prophet Jeremiah points out the fact that as children of God, our loyalty and trust should be in God and not in mortal man. He explains clearly what one will reap, depending on where your loyalty is; in such a situation. He says, cursed is the man who trusts in man, and blessed is the man who trusts in God; he is like a tree that is planted by the water. Dearly beloved in Christ, let us be careful about the choice we make at any point in our life. The emphasis here is absolute trust and loyalty. It simply means that no matter the situation we find ourselves, we have absolute trust that God has the answers and solution that we seek. We must never relegate God at any point in our life, and just trust in men or our capabilities. Always remember that we need God, men and our human capabilities. Even when every other means fails us, God will never fail us; he is ever faithful. The response to our psalm also affirms the assertion of the prophet Jeremiah, “Blessed the man who has placed his trust in the Lord”. Trusting in God attracts his blessings.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, in the gospel reading, we see the story of Lazarus and the rich man. A good example of the teaching of the prophet Jeremiah in today’s 1st reading. The rich man trusted in himself and his wealth, so his loyalty was not on God; this is seen in his relationship with Lazarus. While on the other hand, the loyalty of Lazarus was on God, not minding his challenging situation. The end of both men should help us to listen to the teaching of the prophet Jeremiah and make the right choice, taking into consideration the fact that most of us, if not all, will want to be with Lazarus.
Let us use this season of lent as an opportunity to reach out to all those who are in similar situation like Lazarus, and show them some love. We are all children of Abraham.
May God grant us the grace to be firmly loyal to him, no matter the situation we find ourselves. Peace be with you.