Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose hope is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted beside the waters
that stretches out its roots to the stream:
It fears not the heat when it comes,
its leaves stay green;
In the year of drought it shows no distress,
but still bears fruit.
More tortuous than all else is the human heart,
beyond remedy; who can understand it?
I, the LORD, alone probe the mind
and test the heart,
To reward everyone according to his ways,
according to the merit of his deeds.

Jeremiah 17: 7-10

Here are the complete readings for Thursday, March 20, 2025

(“The Rich Man and Lazarus” by James Janknegt)

The rich man in Jesus’ parable does not come across as very sympathetic. Do we feel a sense of poetic justice at the fate of this man compared to that of Lazarus? Or do we feel sorry for the man, not only for his destiny, but on how unhappy he must have been while alive in his palatial home? Did anything in his heart stir to indicate that he was empty on the inside? If we cannot open ourselves up to seeing our true poverty and need for interdependence, then it is impossible for us to develop any real sense of trust. If we cannot trust, then we will keep all our relationships at arms’ length. Like Jesus, Jeremiah reminds us of the need to trust, especially when we are feeling the most vulnerable. Like the tree standing strong in the drought, can we develop the roots to support us when we feel alone or not invited to the table?

You have promised
to follow Christ, the poor man,
totally given in love to God
and for all people everywhere,
and whose loving obedience led Him
to death on the cross. – The Fundamental Principles of the Xaverian Brothers

God, I want to trust you but I am afraid. The conditions in which I find myself make me anxious and uneasy. There is so much I want clarified. God, when this happens, help me to remember to stop making everything about me. Remind me that I have everything I need by simply being here today, and that you are here with me. Help me enjoy the present moment, and cherish it as a gift.

Amen