Introduction to Vespers - Feast of St. Luke, Evangelist.

(Scripture Reading: Col. 1:3a-6)

When we study the Gospel of Luke, we are aware that he is writing in the knowledge that Judaism has already rejected the person of Jesus and His message of salvation. The Messiah has come, and has not been acknowledged by His own people. And this marks an important turning point in the history of salvation: the Gospel is given to the Gentiles; the salvation which Jesus first offered to Judaism is now offered to all peoples.

In the scripture reading we see a contrast with Judaism. The Colossians welcomes the Good News and accepts the hope that it offers. And thus they receive the blessings it offers.

We pray that we too may accept God’s word and be another Theophilus, “beloved of God” who is concern for the Truth (Lk. 1:3 , Acts 1:1).

"Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it" (Lk. 11:28).