Luke

Luke, is one of the many men of God that inspires our faith. He is the author of the Gospel of Luke and Acts. These two books are incredibly detailed with much research, family lines, places, names, and little tidbits that were absent in some of the other gospels.

One of the reasons for Luke’s exactness and eye for detail is that he was a doctor. Colossians 4:14 states, “Luke, the beloved physician, sends you his greetings, and also Demas.” Yes, a doctor following the Great Physician experienced a healing power that he was never schooled in before his encounter with Jesus.

Another title that Luke has is that of an evangelist. In the book of Acts, which he authored, 162 times he used the term, “we” or “us” in telling of his evangelistic journeys. It seemed to me he was encouraged greatly by Paul’s example and esteemed him highly. The book of Philemon testifies of this relationship with Paul during an imprisonment, Philemon, “Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you, as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow workers.”

Luke was also a “stick with you to the end” friend. When Paul was facing his imminent death during his final imprisonment, 2 Timothy 4:11a says, “Only Luke is with me.” Apostle Paul had many that he had sown into, and no doubt some were unable to be there, but Luke made it a point to see his good friend before Paul’s home going.

It may not be your calling to be an author or doctor, but it is the Great commission that we share the good news of the gospel and make disciples. Luke shows us not only how to be empowered and strengthened by the Holy Spirit, but how to be effective witnesses. Luke also shows us not only are we a friend of God, but a weathered friend that encourages others through good times and bad. Thank you Dr. Luke for an example of a life lived well that points us to Jesus.

Pastor Ruth Kaunley