27 “He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my family, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’ Luke 16:27-28
The rich man now thinks of his brothers, in what seems to be his only concern for someone else besides himself. He asks Abraham to send Lazarus to warn them that they might not suffer his fate. Unfortunately, the lesson is that after we die, our concern for others is expressed too late.
God has called us to care for each other while we are here. After we see the reality of eternity our chance for repentance has passed. Our time to turn our lives around is here and now, and to care for those God has given us. While the rich man’s concern for his family is at least a caring thought, we are charged with caring for all of God’s children, family or stranger.
The rich man’s failure was not in being rich, but failing to notice the need of those around him and using the gifts God had provided to care for them. He focused on himself and not a relationship with God and others. We must be aware of the issues that our brothers and sisters face, as we are responsible to God for their well-being.
Gracious God, we are sorry for the times we ignore each other when we should be helping. Make us strong in Your love to go to those in need and share the Good News and the gifts You have given us. Amen.