Homily – 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scroll down for the Children’s Liturgy 20 Questions

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, every Sunday we gather not only to worship but also to be reminded of what truly matters in life. We live in a world where comfort and security can easily blind us from the needs of others. Today’s readings shake us from that comfort. They call us to open our eyes, to see the people at our doorsteps, and to let God’s Word transform our daily choices. We are asked to think about how we live, how we care for others, and what truly matters in life. God is not trying to frighten us, but to wake us up so that we may live with open eyes and loving hearts

In the first reading from the prophet Amos, we hear a strong warning against living in luxury while ignoring the sufferings of others. The people enjoyed fine food, music, and comfort, but their hearts were asleep to justice. God reminds us that wealth and comfort are not evil by themselves, but they become dangerous when they make us forget compassion. The challenge for us is simple: Do we notice those in need around us, or do we look away? The message for us is simple: when we have food, safety, and peace, we must also remember those who are hungry, lonely, or in need.

In the second reading, St. Paul encourages Timothy—and us—to “pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness.” These virtues are the true treasures of life. While the world tells us to chase after power or possessions, Paul reminds us that real victory is found in living faithfully and generously. This is not only advice for priests or religious; it is for every Christian who longs to live with purpose. St. Paul is reminding us that what matters most is not what we keep for ourselves, but what we give from the heart.

In the Gospel, Jesus gives us the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man had all he wanted, but he did not even notice the poor man sitting at his gate. He was not cruel, but he was blind. After death, everything changed—Lazarus was comforted, while the rich man was in pain. The lesson is very clear: we cannot close our eyes to the suffering of others. We cannot wait for a miracle or a sign from heaven. God has already spoken through His Word, through Jesus, and through the people we see in need each day.

My brothers and sisters, today the question is: who is Lazarus at our door? Or Who is the “Lazarus” sitting at our gate? It could be someone in our family, a neighbor, an elderly person who feels forgotten in a nursing home, a child who needs encouragement, or a stranger who needs kindness. Sometimes it is not about money, but about time, care, and love.

As we come to the table of the Lord today, may Jesus give us new eyes to see, new hearts to feel, and new courage to act. May we never walk past the Lazarus at our door, but instead bring the love of Christ to every person we meet. Then, at the end of our journey, we too will be welcomed into the joy of God’s kingdom. May our faith not be words alone, but a living witness that transforms the world around us. If we choose love today, one day we too will hear those beautiful words: “Come, share in your Master’s joy.”

CHILDREN’S LITURGY 20 QUESTONS 

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time – (Luke 16:19–31)

1. Did Jesus tell a story about a rich man who wore purple garments? Yes
2. Did the rich man live in a very poor house? No
3. Was there a poor man named Lazarus at the gate? Yes
4. Did Lazarus have many sores on his body? Yes
5. Did the dogs come and lick Lazarus’ sores? Yes
6. Did Lazarus eat plenty of good food every day? No
7. Did the rich man give food to Lazarus? No
8. Did Lazarus die and go to the bosom of Abraham? Yes
9. Did angels carry Lazarus to Abraham? Yes
10. Did the rich man also die and was buried? Yes
11. Was the rich man happy and comfortable after death? No
12. Did the rich man see Lazarus with Abraham far off? Yes
13. Did the rich man ask Abraham for water to cool his tongue? Yes
14. Did Abraham remind the rich man of all the good things he had in life? Yes
15. Did Abraham say there was a big gap that no one could cross? Yes
16. Did the rich man ask that his five brothers be warned? Yes
17. Did Abraham say they had Moses and the prophets to listen to? Yes
18. Did the rich man think his brothers would listen if someone came back from the dead? Yes
19. Did Abraham say they would listen even if someone rose from the dead? No
20. Did Jesus teach us to care for the poor and to listen to God’s Word? Yes