Patrick's Ponderings
Saint Luke the Evangelist, traditionally a physician and companion of Paul, teaches priests who preach to proclaim the Gospel with compassion, inclusivity, and fidelity.
As the author of the Gospel of Luke and Acts, he emphasized Jesus’ mercy toward sinners, the poor, and outcasts, highlighting universal salvation. His detailed narratives, like the Prodigal Son and Good Samaritan, show priests how to use relatable stories to convey divine love and moral truths.
Luke’s focus on prayer, as seen in Jesus’ frequent retreats, urges priests to root their preaching in contemplation. His collaboration with Paul models preaching as a communal mission, encouraging priests to engage their communities.
Priests learn from Luke to preach with empathy, clarity, and a call to conversion, making the Gospel accessible to all.
If we can view preaching as healing, what are the wounds that need the salve of the Gospel and how can preachers work to be that “physician”?
