The Rich Man and Lazarus

The Rich Man and Lazarus…

Lazarus is the only biblical parable character that’s given a name. Lazarus in Hebrew is Eleazar, from two Hebrew words; El meaning God and azar meaning helps. God helps, that’s His nature.

As God’s people, we have to be compassionate and help others as well. There’s a hidden mystery in this parable. Another way you can look at it. Jesus said “When you help the poor, feed, clothe and bless them, you’re helping Me.” You’re “helping God” = Eleazar.

The rich man doesn’t have a name because God wants us to put our name there, to identify with the one who doesn’t feed the hungry, clothe the naked, or bless others. For us who live in the West, we’re very much the rich man. We have far more than most of the world. Lazarus went to heaven and the rich man went to hell.

God wants you to put yourself in the shoes of the rich man, to teach you to open the gates of your life and heart, and help the poor who are lying right outside your gates, the poor of this world. Because their name is Lazarus.

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine you did for me.’ Matthew 25:35-40

Ask the Lord to show you how you can help others and be the hands and feet of Jesus today. Then follow through with what He shows you.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed