Read: Luke 16:19–31
But Abraham said, “Child, remember that during your lifetime you received good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony.” Luke 16:25
Our lives carry the weight of eternal significance. How we choose to live on earth makes a difference in heaven. The choices we make in our daily lives leave an impression that is remembered for all eternity. The point of the story of the rich man and Lazarus was as a rebuke of the Pharisees who challenged Jesus at every turn and who refused to receive His teaching. But the story also reveals Jesus’ understanding of the significance of our lives and our choices.
We often think of ourselves as small, insignificant, and unable to make a lasting impression on the world. Jesus, however, challenges that notion time and time again, asserting that every choice we make, every action we engage in, every relationship we enter into matters to God. Our lives and our living will not be forgotten. The good that we do and the injury we cause will be remembered. This is an awesome and a fearsome reality. This may make us feel uncomfortable, but it is exactly how Jesus said God works. God does not forget…God remembers—forever.
How do you want to be remembered?
Lord, I recoil at the prospect of judgment, particularly when it has to do with eternity. I don’t like thinking of You as a punishing deity. However, You must not like thinking of me as a sinner who regularly overlooks the needs of people in desperate need—especially those who are right in front of me. The flipside of this, Lord, is that my own suffering, my own loss, and my own acts of generosity are not forgotten by You. You remember and You love. Those characteristics are recounted throughout the Bible. So, thank You for being mindful of my life, and help me to live up to the responsibility that comes with eternally significant living. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.