In one of my recent classes, we were asked, “If you had to choose only one of the synoptic Gospels to have with you on a deserted island, which would you choose and why?”  I chose Luke.  In Luke, Jesus’ humanity is emphasized and I’m able to more easily relate to Jesus as he’s portrayed.  I’m drawn to the compassion, justice and mercy Jesus demonstrates to the marginalized and oppressed in this Gospel.  Of course, Luke’s respect for women does not go unnoticed!  Luke emphasizes that all people are important and equal in God’s eyes.

I appreciate the developed stories of Jesus’ birth, as well as the numerous parables told in Luke.  Luke has more of Jesus’ teachings about prayer than the other Gospels.  Not only does Jesus teach the Lord’s Prayer, but he also gives multiple parables about prayer. (Lk 11)  We also have several examples of Jesus praying in Luke during his baptism, after healing and preaching to large crowds, alone and with his disciples, on the mountaintop before his transfiguration, before his betrayal, and on the cross.  Luke shows Jesus praying often.

I enjoy the stories after Jesus’ resurrection, especially the walk to Emmaus with two of his disciples.  Jesus’ personality shows through as somewhat playful in some of Luke’s stories.  Personally, I like the portrait Luke paints of Jesus.  Luke gives a fuller account of Jesus’ life than the others and, by the end of Luke, you feel as if you have been introduced to Jesus and know him, and this Jesus is someone you’d want to know.  Luke also continues on after Jesus’ death to tell about his resurrection and ascension into heaven.  Even though Luke emphasizes Jesus’ humanity and refers to him throughout the Gospel as “Son of Man,” this Gospel also gives the clearest picture of Jesus as Savior through stories and details.  Jesus’ ministry touches everyone in this Gospel.

Read Luke 11:1-13, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally!

Annie