Saint Luke, one of the four evangelists who wrote one of the four gospels, actually  is responsible for writing not only the Gospel of Luke, but the Acts of the Apostles, as well. Having converted from his pagan ways, he used all the graces given to him by God, to share the faith with others. Saint Luke was a physician a writer, and an artist as well. There are several images that he painted of the Blessed Mother with the Child Jesus. But one of the more important images he ‘painted’ of the Blessed Mother is in the Magnificat, which is actually a beautiful prayer, and not a painting at all. It is a beautiful hymn of praise to the Lord. Most scholars agree that Luke actually spent time with the Blessed Mother, writing down the details that filled her life, beginning with the Annunciation and the days leading up to the birth of Christ.  He also vividly provides a comprehensive account of Jesus’ journey towards Jerusalem, which is read on Palm Sunday and leads the Faithful right into Holy Week. His accounts have become vital parts of the way we pray…the way we worship.

Even though St. Luke was not one of Christ’s apostles, nor one of  72 disciples,  he was a close friend of Saint Paul and remained with him through thick and thin. His Gospel writings  include six miracles and 18 parables. Because he paid special attention to the poor and downtrodden peoples of the day…his gospel is often referred to as “The Gospel of Mercy,” stressing God’s mercy in the cures that Jesus brought to the people…not only the physical cures…but the spiritual healing that He offered…and continues to offer.… to those who suffer. One such example of mercy is found in the story of the Prodigal Son, (Luke 15: 11-23) which is the tale of a Merciful Father, who welcomes back his son who was lost. Welcoming him back with open arms and an open heart. His writings stress Christ’s directive to “Be merciful as your Father is merciful.”(Luke 6:36)

Saint Luke is a perfect example of how when we follow God, and use the gifts…the talents which He has given us.…we can accomplish great things. Because of his devotion to the Faith and his attention to detail, we not only have the details concerning the Annunciation and the Nativity, but also three beloved canticles which the Church prays every day in the Liturgy of the Hours. St. Luke, the Evangelist, pray for us.