MISSIO offers “Preaching Mission,” as a homily help, providing connections to mission from the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
This is the feast of St. Luke, writer of two books of Scripture: a Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles.
This early convert to Christianity is generally believed to be a Gentile from what is now Turkey. Luke sometimes accompanied Paul on his journeys. It was during these times in Jerusalem and elsewhere that Luke had the opportunity to learn about Jewish tradition and to speak with people who had known Jesus about His life and public ministry. It was Paul who tells us that his loyal friend was also a physician. “Luke is the only one with me.… But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it” (2 Timothy 4:11, 17).
Luke’s writings are known for their style and beauty as well as the breadth of Christ’s message. Only in his Gospel do we hear the beautiful canticles of Zechariah and of Mary. Luke’s has been called the Gospel of mercy, of women, and of the poor and outcast, and was probably written about 75 A.D. Unfortunately, we know nothing about the end of St. Luke’s life after the death of St. Paul and the conclusion of the book of Acts. Yet this man’s devotion to our Lord and Redeemer has enriched the spirituality of all who follow Christ for two thousand years. Let his reflection of the compassionate Christ bring us daily hope.
October is Mission Month.
World Mission Sunday is October 21.
Be a voice for mission with MISSIO.
Access resources for your parish and/or school.