Luke 1:1-4 | Isaiah 28:16-17
Congratulations on reading through Mark and now two gospels so far this year. We move on to Luke…
Luke is a gospel of accuracy. At least, that is the author’s stated goal. Luke is said to have been a physician and thus, a person of education. He names his audience, Theophilus, which means “lover of God.” Whether this is a single benefactor, a community, or no one in particular, it is surely you and me today.
Luke apparently did his research, and we’ll immediately benefit from it in ways we don’t in the other gospels right here in the first chapter (which is so long it’ll take us almost a week to get through).
There’s something not just to be admired about accuracy and integrity, but something to be emulated, no?
Let’s begin.
Luke 1:1-4
Many people have already applied themselves to the task of compiling an account of the events that have been fulfilled among us. They used what the original eyewitnesses and servants of the word handed down to us. Now, after having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, I have also decided to write a carefully ordered account for you, most honorable Theophilus. I want you to have confidence in the soundness of the instruction you have received.
Isaiah 28:16-17
Therefore, the Lord God says:
Look! I’m laying in Zion a stone,
a tested stone, a valuable cornerstone,
a sure foundation:
the one who trusts won’t tremble.
I will make justice the measuring line
and righteousness the plumb line.
But hail will sweep away the hiding place of lies,
and water will overflow the shelter.
Prayer
God,
Create in me an integrity of wisdom and truth. I don’t want to be a brute. I just want to be as blameless as possible. I know you know who you’re working with, but by your grace, I believe it’s possible. This probably means I need help in the act of being slow to speak. (Yes, and quick to listen!) Surely integrity of wisdom and truth will involve continued learning, so keep my mind and heart young and open to change. I know it will require honesty and patience, so help me God there, too.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.