December 01, 2024 English

Starting this Sunday, we begin a new Liturgical Year C, and Sunday gospel selections are mainly from Luke. I invite you to read, study, and enjoy this gospel for beautiful reasons.
•    Luke is called the “BELOVED PHYSICIAN” by Paul. Luke is a keen observer of the human condition. Like a good physician, he sees people as they are, and he loves them all. His gospel is the easiest to read and understand because it presupposes that his audience is unfamiliar with Jewish customs and practices. Luke speaks in the first person. Luke addresses his friend, Theophilus, a name that means "beloved of God." In so many words, he says, "I am writing to you the most incredible story humankind has known."
 
•    Luke’s gospel is FOR THE GENTILES. Unlike other gospel writers, Luke is a gentile. Luke wants to give an account of the gospel to a non-Jewish audience who are not accustomed to Jewish beliefs and practices and who live in a society dominated by Greek culture and language. Luke writes his gospel in the common Greek of the day between 63 and 70 A.D.

•    Luke writes as a HISTORIAN. “That you may know the truth concerning the things of which you have been informed” (Luke 1:4). He has investigated the matter closely, and he intends to give an orderly account of what has happened. Luke emphasizes the events of Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension. He is the only gospel writer to give an account of the ascension. He also uses the Greek title for Lord and speaks of Jesus as the Savior.

•    Luke writes the UNIVERSAL GOSPEL. Luke makes clear that the gospel is addressed not just to the Jews but to all without distinction. He speaks of Jesus as the “friend of sinners” and of outcasts. He says the Son of Man has come to seek and save what is lost. Luke emphasizes Jesus' compassion for sinners and for those who suffer, as well as his patience, friendliness, and desire to seek out the lost. Luke shows great concern for the poor. He alone tells the Parable of the Rich Man and poor Lazarus. Luke shows Jesus giving approval and praising gentiles for their faith.

•    Luke writes the GOSPEL OF WOMEN. He gives women a special place in his gospel account, and more women appear in Luke than in the other gospels. The events leading to Jesus’ birth are told from Mary’s point of view. Luke tells us of the special friendship Jesus had with Martha and Mary and how Jesus transformed Mary Magdalene's life. Luke also mentions many women who traveled with Jesus and the apostles and “ministered to their needs” (Luke 8:1-3).
•    Luke writes the GOSPEL OF PRAYER AND PRAISE. Luke shows Jesus at prayer on many occasions. Jesus prays for Peter in his hour of testing. Jesus concludes the Lord’s Prayer with an exhortation to pray confidently, knowing that “for everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened” (Luke 11:10).

•    Luke writes the GOSPEL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. The Holy Spirit is active in the initiation of the Incarnation, in the early witness to Jesus, and in the activity of Jesus himself. Luke’s gospel is infused with the joy of the Holy Spirit. The gift of the Holy Spirit is available to all who seek: “How much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:13).

All of us can find a place in this gentle and compassionate gospel. I know our Holy Father, Pope Francis, and Luke have much in common. We are uniquely blessed to have our gentle and humble servant of God, Pope Francis, in our lifetime.

Fr. Paul D. Lee