Day 2, Luke 1
From the divine to the doctoral:
John (yesterday) set the scene for his gospel with a divine, eternal perspective. Today, Doctor Luke brings us his accurate account meticulously compiled from multiple eyewitness interviews. The contrast is striking and lends credence to the authenticity of the four gospels. Each written by a unique person, with a distinct goal and a specific target audience, resulting in four accounts that can be synthesised into one clear whole.
Luke writes as an historian, to convey the humanity of Jesus, for a Gentile (non-Jewish) audience. His first chapter contains many human touches and stories that are either omitted or shortened elsewhere.
But this focus on humanity leaves much room for divinity also: Elizabeth prophesies, Mary prophesies, Zechariah prophesies, and angels appear repeatedly. There are two supernatural conceptions (one through a silenced disbeliever and one to a young peasant girl whose pregnancy will bring consternation to her fiance).
As you read today, relish all the details in Luke’s account, and the many supernatural touches. His gospel is a gift to us gentiles!
Have a great day!
Mark.