March 5, 2026
Thursday of the Second Week of Lent
Gospel: Luke 16:19-31

Today is Thursday of the Second Week of Lent. Through the Gospel of Saint Luke, Jesus tells us a parable.

What can we see in Luke’s portrayal of these two characters? The man dressed in purple and fine linen was clearly a man of power, for in Jesus’ time, few could afford purple garments—purple was a symbol of power and prestige. Recall: the wealth produced by Tyre and Sidon consisted of such purple goods. His clothing was made of byssus (a type of silk). The poor man named Lazarus wore ragged clothes, and even dogs came to lick his sores.

In our world today, there are two kinds of people. One kind is represented by the rich man in the Gospel—those who act according to the logic of this world. They desire that God’s Word bring them lasting wealth and elevate their social status, not desiring the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. The other kind is represented by Lazarus—those who act according to the logic of God’s world. They desire God’s mercy and comfort, and like Lazarus, they suffer greatly in this world. Yet we know this suffering will not last long. When that day comes, those who reject the truth will, like the rich man who enjoyed all the wealth of this world, fall into eternal perdition (cf. Luke 16:19-31). At that time, the sufferings we endure will be transformed into joy, for having conquered the prince of this world and its messengers through faith, we will praise the holy name of God with all the saints of heaven forever.

O God, who delight in innocence and restore it,
direct the hearts of your servants to yourself,
that, caught up in the fire of your Spirit,
we may be found steadfast in faith
and effective in works.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever

©Totus Tuus 2026
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica