Sharing the Word

     We all know of the four Evangelists - Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  These four passed on the story of Jesus and shared his teaching, inspiring the communities to which they wrote with their witness.  Sometimes that witness was an eyewitness account, and at other times it was the inspired sharing of the testimony of others.

     Today the Church celebrates the Feast of the Evangelist Luke.   Luke was born of a pagan family.  He was a convert to the Christian faith and a follower and co-worker of the Apostle Paul, who also came to believe in Jesus after his death and resurrection.  Luke travelled with Paul on a number of his journeys, and came to know of Jesus through Paul, and to know Jesus through the Holy Spirit.  He gave us the Gospel that bears his name, but he also gave us an account of the beginning of the Church in the Acts of the Apostles.  Tradition tells us that he was an educated man, probably a physician, and an artist.  He is reported to have painted ancient icons, and again tradition tells us that he may have painted the icon of Virgin and Child that is found in "The Black Madonna".

     We hear in the Acts of the Apostles that "The word of God continued to increase and spread everywhere, and all who were destined for eternal life believed in it."  This was the testimony of Paul and it was fleshed out in the life of Luke.  

     In my radio program which aired on WAOB FM this past Sunday evening, I was given two passages from Luke to reflect upon: the 16th chapter and the later half of chapter 11.  In verse 35 of chapter 11, Jesus says: "Take care, then, that the light in you not become darkness."  I shared that "We have been gifted with the light of truth, and empowered to bring that light into a darkened world.  We are challenged to allow our life of faith to be seen and followed, and thus transform the world."  Luke did just that.  

     And so, on this Feast of Saint Luke we pray:

"Father,

you chose Luke the evangelist to reveal

by preaching and writing

the mystery of your love for the poor.

Unite in heart and spirit

all who glory in your name,

and let all nations come to see your salvation."

**************************

     The priests of the Diocese had a meeting here at the Bishop Connare Center this afternoon, discussing a number of issues that touch the life of our parishes.  It was a good day of sharing information as well as our thoughts.  One unique thing that took place was a formal photo of the entire presbyterate in the Saint Joseph Chapel.  Nearly all of our priests were present.  Yours truly is in the front row on the right.

Pray for your priests ... and pray for an increase in vocations.