Journey to Jerusalem: The Rich Man and Lazarus

Lent challenges us to let go of what weighs us down and grab hold of what truly matters. This week, we step into the story of the Rich Man and Lazarus. It's all about the paths we avoid, the walls we build, and the suffering we choose to ignore. 

We meet a rich man, living in luxury, and Lazarus, a poor beggar, lying outside his gate, ignored by the very person who could change his life. This parable isn’t about some distant future—it’s about now. It’s about how we live today, how we make choices that affect others, and how we either turn away or open our hearts wide. 

I’m reminded of my time at seminary, where I worked as a learning partner building relationships with international students from all over the world. A number of the students I worked with had many stories of fleeing war and danger firsthand. I saw the gap between my own experiences and my new friends. While I have my own real and valid struggles in life, as a learning partner I realized that I needed to be conscious, sensitive, and open to the ways that their challenges were distinct to my own. As a learning partner I began to adapt to better walk alongside my friends. And that’s when it hit me: Jesus was asking me to open my eyes, not to dwell in guilt and shame, but to act with compassion. 

Jesus calls us to see the invisible barriers that divide us—the walls separating us from those who are suffering, the strangers we walk past every day. The world is full of migration, hearts shifting, and journeys crossing. Our choices—about who we welcome or ignore—make all the difference. 

This is about how God moves us to leave behind comfort and step into the work of love. We don’t walk alone—God is with us every step, urging us onward. 

So, come ready to engage. Whether you feel like Lazarus—exhausted, ignored, craving justice—or like the rich man—feeling the weight of missed opportunity—this story has something to say to you. There’s time. There’s grace. And there’s always room at the table. 

We’re walking this road together, friends. And the road ahead? It leads to new life. 

See you Sunday.  

Peace, 

Pastor Katie