ST LUKE, EVANGELIST B.M. (Feast) Red

First Reading: 2Tim 4:10-17ab; Psalm: 145. R. v. 12a; Gospel: Lk 10 1-9

A TRUE MISSIONARY

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

St Luke hails from Antioch; a city known for its high learning. He was a physician which goes without saying his learnedness. Little wonder he wrote the gospel of Luke even though he did not personally encounter Jesus as did the twelve apostles. St Paul recounted how dedicated and faithful Luke was in preaching the gospel. As Paul’s companion, Luke remained with Paul in his missionary journey even when every other companion abandoned Paul (2Tim 4:10-11).

One striking thing about St Luke was how he abandoned his comfortable life in Antioch and chose to preach the gospel. Luke used his talent and education to serve God rather than make money for himself. He not only wrote the gospel of Luke but also the Acts of the Apostles. Luke suffered imprisonment for two years and was released. In later years, he was crucified near Achaia during his missionary work.

Just like St Luke, the Lord is inviting us all to participate in his mission of salvation. “The harvest is abundant but the labourers are few; so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest” (Lk 10:2-3). Making ourselves available to doing the things of God is one of the ways to fulfilling this prayer for the need of labourers. Just like St Luke, we can use our talents and resources in service to God. There is no better way to be grateful for these gifts than to use them for the promotion of the salvation of souls.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, increase our zeal and love to serve you. Amen.