I met a man once who said that he gave up going to Mass when he heard todays Story. He said that he could not believe in a God that sends people to Hell. St. Julian of Norwich and St. Therese of Liseux would agree with him. Julian says that there can be no anger in God. God is Love, and St. Therese says that there may be Hell, but there is nobody in it. The Kingdom of God is given not achieved. God lifts us to His Heart in an embrace of Love. The dramatic story told us to day is really about being a neighbour. The rich man ignored a fellow human being, and that is a loss even now. The withered heart has its own pain. The generous heart of compassion, friendship, generosity, humanises us with peace. Say the good word, watch the judgemental heart. To notice others with a thank you and smile are treasures of life. They are available every moment of the day. Lord, help us to open the eyes of our hearts, with the helpful prayers of Mary, who listened to the call of life, and responded with generosity of heart.

Liam Hickey, St.Ciarans, Hartstown, Dublin 15.