by Rev. Herbert Nichols

Luke is traditionally known as the Third Evangelist. He not only wrote a gospel but a companion second volume called "Acts." His gospel extends from the birth of Jesus to his death and resurrection. "Acts" focuses on the birth of the Church up to the death of St. Paul. There is much parallelism between these two works.

But why another gospel? There were already at least two. Luke however was an outsider with non-Jewish roots. He wrote in a very different style than Mark or Matthew to an expanding Gentile Church.

Even though not an eyewitness, he is not reluctant to be innovative. Luke includes 6 miracles and 18 parables, which are not found in MT/MK, or even later in John -- most notable is the Parable of the Prodigal Son.

It is a message of God’s overwhelming mercy which permeates his entire gospel. He gives details of the infancy of Jesus far surpassing that of Matthew. Interestingly, though, he makes no mention of the wise men or astrologers but is far more concerned with the invitation to the shepherds -- outcasts and rejected.

Throughout both volumes is the underlying message of the invitation by God to make sense out of suffering and pain, which are a reality of life. They are not optional (unless you believe in the gospel according to Kevorkian).

Jesus came to give meaning to suffering and pain. (This theme is common throughout tomorrow’s readings and is the topic for discussion in next week’s Renew groups.)

Luke’s sensitivity is perhaps indicative of his profession as a physician – a reference made by Paul in Colossians. Luke portrays the sensitivity of Jesus by preparing his audiences before his arrival -- sending his disciples ahead of him.

Preparation, not only for the townspeople, but also, a lesson to the disciples on how to conduct themselves when they are rejected.

It is likewise a message to us, his disciples of this day whose task is to prepare the modern world for Jesus ultimate second arrival, and how to conduct ourselves in the face of rejection and ridicule always with sensitivity, mercy, and truth.