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Luke 16:19-25 (Common English Bible)
19 “There was a certain rich man who clothed himself in purple and fine linen, and who feasted luxuriously every day. 20 At his gate lay a certain poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 Lazarus longed to eat the crumbs that fell from the rich man’s table. Instead, dogs would come and lick his sores.
22 “The poor man died and was carried by angels to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 While being tormented in the place of the dead, he looked up and saw Abraham at a distance with Lazarus at his side. 24 He shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I’m suffering in this flame.’ 25 But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your lifetime you received good things, whereas Lazarus received terrible things. Now Lazarus is being comforted and you are in great pain.
Summary:
Based on the book by Dr. Candace M. Lewis and Dr. Rodney T. Smothers, Resurgence is a movement toward renewal, revival and recovery of relevance in ministry. This month, we explore our calling to surge forward as followers of Jesus and in ministry with our community.
Lazarus, a poor man, experienced resurgence through his faithfulness. The angels stayed with him and he was carried to heaven. The rich man, on the other hand, was selfish, having been used to others doing for him instead of with him. Ask in prayer, “Who will do this with us?” and anticipate God’s provision for better angels in our midst. Right now, we may feel broken and outside the gate, but keep the faith, for God sends angels for our ultimate resurgence! Our time is coming! Our time is now!
Reflection Questions:
- Recall a time when you felt destined to be outside the gate of opportunity? How do you feel right now?
- Who are the friends you’ve discovered in the past year who have helped you through a difficult time?
- Who has God placed our church in relationship with to do the good work God has for us to do?