Reading: Luke 16, Psalm 37:18

The LORD knows the days of the upright, And their inheritance shall be forever.

In Luke 16, Jesus tells the story of two men: a selfish wealthy landowner and a homeless diseased beggar named Lazarus.. The soul of the rich man was corrupted with materialism and pride. But in spite of his desperate conditions, Lazarus was righteous before God. Notably, the rich man passed Lazarus daily. Though he had the power and wealth to bring relief to Lazarus, he chose to ignore his suffering.

According to Jesus both men eventually died. Lazarus’ spirit went to Abraham’s Bosom, a place of comfort and rest for those who died in faith, before Jesus' resurrection. But the rich man went to hell. Jesus said, "And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. "Then he cried and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.' Luk 16:23-24.

This story should serve to remind us of the sobering reality that there is a heaven to gain and a hell to avoid. While we still draw breath we have the opportunity to turn towards Jesus, repent of our sins, and follow Him. There will be countless people in hell that didn’t have to go there. There are lessons in this story that should comfort us too.

While inequities are a part of living in a fallen world, remember that God does not esteem us according to our accumulation of wealth or status. God assesses us by the condition of our heart towards Him and the compassion we show to others. Eventually, the righteous will be vindicated. And the wicked will either repent and receive God’s mercy in this life or face His judgment in the next.

Psalm 37:18 reminds us that “the Lord knows the days of the upright, and their inheritance shall be forever.” As servants of Jesus, we’ve been promised an “inheritance that does not fade away, incorruptible, undefiled, and reserved in heaven for you…” (1Pe 1:4 NKJV). As we make daily choices to follow Jesus, walk by faith, listen to His Spirit, and practice love towards others, we open our lives to the rich blessings He has promised. Yet, no matter how many blessings we receive in this life, our greatest rewards are yet to come. “...Reserved in heaven for you”.

As you come to the Lord today, begin by writing in your journal a prayer of thanks to Jesus for His precious gift of forgiveness for our sins and eternal life. Thank Him for the inheritance He has promised. Offer your body and mind to him today as a fresh and living sacrifice. Invite Him to show you how you can demonstrate your love for Him.
Ask Him to show you the needs of others as you go about your day and to guide you in practical ways that you can show love. Then be still and listen. Who is coming to your mind? Is there someone you notice that might need a call or text of support? Is there a co-worker that needs to hear a word of encouragement? A family member who needs some focused attention?
Write down whatever comes up in your heart. And as you go about your day, make time to do whatever He prompts you to do.

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