The Catholic Church’s liturgy is so rich that, we are always called to reflect on our sins as we pray the “Confiteor’ : I CONFESS TO ALMIGHTY GOD….The part of the prayer says AND IN WHAT I HAVE FAILED TO DO..This is the sin of omission. Sometimes we pretend to turn a blind eye to say that we did not act and so we have not sinned.
In today’s Gospel reading from Luke 16:19-31, Jesus presents the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, highlighting the consequences of neglecting the needy. The rich man’s sin was not overt cruelty but a grave omission—his failure to act with compassion towards Lazarus, a poor man suffering at his doorstep. This omission led to a stark reversal of fortunes in the afterlife, emphasizing that indifference to human suffering is a serious moral failing.
Similarly, the first reading from Jeremiah 17:5-10 contrasts those who trust in human strength with those who place their hope in the Lord. The former are likened to barren shrubs in the desert, while the latter are compared to trees planted by water, bearing fruit even in times of drought. This imagery underscores the importance of aligning one’s actions with divine principles, which inherently include caring for the marginalized.
The sin of omission occurs when individuals fail to perform actions that are morally required, particularly in aiding those in need. This sin is often subtle, arising from inaction rather than deliberate wrongdoing. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus serves as a cautionary tale, urging believers to recognize and address the suffering around them, ensuring that their faith is expressed through compassionate deeds.
As we reflect during this Lenten season, these readings challenge us to examine our own responses to those who suffer.
Are we actively engaging in acts of kindness and support, or are we passively overlooking opportunities to help? We must not turn a blind eye to the basic needs of others: food, clothing and shelter. The rich man had all these but FAILED to act.
Sr. Gifty Anastasia Blewu, SMMC
(Sister Communicator)
