Saint Luke, Evangelist
Saint Luke the Evangelist is known for being the author of the third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. According to tradition, he was born in Antioch, to a pagan family, and was a doctor by profession. However, after his conversion to the Christian faith, he became a faithful follower of Jesus Christ and a close companion of the Apostle Saint Paul.
The striking feature of the Gospel of Luke
One of the most unique features of Luke’s Gospel is its attention to the poor, victims of injustice, and repentant sinners. Unlike the other Gospels, Luke narrates six miracles and eighteen parables that reflect this concern. His parables portray the poor Lazarus and the rich Epulão, the Prodigal Son and the merciful father who welcomes him with open arms, as well as the forgiven sinner who washes Jesus’ feet with her tears.
In his Gospel, Luke also quotes Mary’s words in the Magnificat, where she proclaims God’s mercy in overthrowing the powerful and elevating the humble, in filling the hungry with good things and sending the rich away empty-handed.
The Evangelist of Mercy
Luke stands out as the Evangelist of Mercy, standing out for his concern for the marginalized and sinners. He dedicated his gospel to the poor and victims of injustice, conveying the message that God’s forgiveness and mercy are available to all.
Patron Saint of Doctors, Painters and Glaziers
In addition to being an evangelist, Lucas is also recognized as the patron saint of doctors, painters and glaziers. Eastern Christians attribute to Luke, known as the “doctor painter”, the authorship of numerous paintings representing the Virgin Mary. In his Gospel, Luke traces the biography of the Virgin and talks about Jesus’ childhood.
The special relationship with Mary
Another striking feature of Luke’s Gospel is his special relationship with Mary, the mother of Jesus. Thanks to this intimate relationship, we know details such as the words of the Annunciation, the visit to Elizabeth and the Magnificat. Luke also narrates the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the anguish of his parents, Mary and Joseph, when they did not find their twelve-year-old son in the Temple. This narrative and descriptive sensitivity of Luke has led the tradition to believe that he was a painter and the first iconographer.
The death of Saint Luke
Information about Saint Luke’s death is unclear. Some sources report that he was martyred, while others say that he lived to a ripe old age. The oldest tradition states that he died in Boeotia, aged 84, after settling in Greece, where he wrote his Gospel. His relics are preserved in three cities: Constantinople, Padua and Venice.
Saint Luke’s contribution to Christianity
Saint Luke the Evangelist left a significant legacy for Christianity. His Gospel highlighted God’s mercy and the importance of caring for the poor and repentant. His special relationship with Mary allowed precious details to be recorded, enriching the understanding of Jesus’ life. Additionally, his work as a doctor and painter inspired subsequent generations of healthcare professionals and artists. Saint Luke is an important figure in the history of Christianity, whose impact can be felt to this day.