Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
In Year C of the liturgical calendar, the primary Gospel is indeed the Gospel of Luke. Gospel reading from Luke, specifically Chapters 1 and 4. In these chapters, Luke reveals his purpose in compiling his Gospel, providing valuable insights into his mind and intentions.
Luke 1:1-4 and Luke 4:14-21 are the specific passages that help us understand Luke's purpose and approach in writing his Gospel. St. Luke is a physician who records the events about Jesus in his Gospel. He considers Jesus beyond medicine who gives true life through his words. St. Francis de sales preached following words on a passion Sunday:
“A word is accepted or rejected for three reasons: because of the person who speaks it, because of the word that is spoken, because of those who hear it. For this word to be honoured and accepted, the one who is speaking it must be a good man, a virtuous man, one worthy of being believed. Otherwise, rather than being accepted, it will be rejected, despised.[1] Further, what is said must be good and true. Finally, those who hear it must be good, prepared to receive it; if not, it will be neither accepted, honoured, nor kept.”
It is Jesus who speaks. He reveals God to us. Jesus is God of Universe. He is filled with Holy Spirit. He is our teacher. He has come to liberate us from our struggles.
Jesus’ words are Good news to people as Gospel narrate. His message of love towards poor and sinner are transformative.
Luke was receptive to Jesus words that he turned to be testimony. We are called to be receptive and testify our life experience of Jesus.
Fr. Raja MSFS