Readings: Amos 6:4-7; Ps 146: 7-10; 1 Tim 6:11-16; Luke 16:19-31

For a very long time there has been a school of thought that suggested that it doesn’t really matter what we do here on Earth – it is all about life in the world to come. I am not suggesting that there is no resurrection nor that this is the only life we get. Rather it is about realised eschatology – what we do now matters deeply – for us and everyone around us who are other children of God.

Each of this week’s readings speak of the importance of working for ‘justice for the oppressed’ and ‘food for the hungry’. In doing so we respect their dignity as others who are created in the image and likeness of God. Salvation is often thought of as being something for eternal life. When we care for those in need, when we build right relationships, we’re bringing salvation. Yes, a form of salvation for others – but also for ourselves. We’re saving ourselves from greed and jealousy and selfishness by acting like God in whose image we are all made.

As today’s Gospel teaches us, this is not a new message. It has been given to us by Moses, the prophets, as well as the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Precisely because we can be greedy, jealous and selfish, we need to hear this message of acting for mutual salvation again and again and again. Sometimes the message sticks. We see it in pockets, in communities, here and there. Such communities are a beacon for others.

May we listen to today’s readings, live them and shine a light for others to follow.