September 28, 2007

Scripture Preaching Scripture

The more I wrestle with the Parable of the rich man and Lazarus the more I realize its depth of meaning. I'll preach on Sunday that this parable, emblematic of the rest, is like an onion. The simple meaning can be seen in the skin; red, white or yellow, but the nuances of its flavor comes within the layers beneath (and getting there draws tears). But still, that top layer, the skin, the easy and obvious surface level meaning in the case of parables is not to be thrown away. There is still much to be taken from it just as onion skin is used in making high quality papers, dying cloth, and even has homeopathic medical benefits.

And as far as articulating that first level meaning of this particular passage, I think that Paul's 2nd letter to Timothy, the Epistle (NT) text for Sunday gets it right. "As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life." It has to be assumed from the text, but it can easily be done, that the rich man, though he knew Lazarus by name, ignored his need thus not setting a foundation for the future. The Timothy text tells the rich where to invest their money for a solid, long-term, return - be rich in good works. That surface meaning is so clear, and yet, as we know from the parable and our own lives it is so hard. Just as saving money for the future puts a pinch on the here and now, so too does investing in "life that really is life" might hurt now, but is so very worth it.

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