What about Lazarus? A theological reflection on poverty in the United States

Abstract

This article is a reflection on the reality of poverty in the United States and its implications for the mission and work of the church. It addresses the growing poverty the US is currently experiencing by framing the discussion around the story of the rich man and Lazarus found in Luke’s gospel (16:19−31). Before attending to the rich man/Lazarus story, the article sets forth the Luke−Acts context in which this story is lodged. The author concludes that theological practice needs to deconstruct the normative narrative of the global market while at the same time painting a picture of new possibilities. Taking up the plight of Lazarus demands a compelling eschatological dimension—an understanding that to deal with the here and now we need a clear picture of the not yet. The reign of God fuels the power of this analysis and helps the church escape the bondage of the current age; it challenges us to take the hand of Lazarus as we move into the future.