I've been reading in the book of Luke for my devotional time each morning. Today, the story of Lazarus and the rich man has convicted me. AGAIN.

What I noticed especially was how the rich man "fared sumptuously" every single day and "...was clothed in purple and fine linen." And Lazarus, full of sores, was laid at the man's very gate.

I know that America is the most generous nation in the world, but God isn't just talking about a nation or even denominational giving. My group ties aren't enough for Him. He is teaching me something. I know that I am saved, but I need to open my eyes to those who are at my very gate who are hungry, sick, troubled, lost.

It would be so easy to retreat into my safe little world that I could try to create by closing my eyes--the windows to my soul. Or shutting doors, my gate. But that would be sin.

God has provided lavishly for our family. He has given us a home, food, clothing, employment, and a country I'm blessed to call home. But one thing I've learned is that because of technology, the people at my gate could be in my neighborhood, my state, my country, or across the world.

Help me to not be like the rich man--so careless of the world around him except for the pleasures it could give him. God forgive me for not looking outside my gates.