Today, October 18, is the Feast of St. Luke. Luke's gospel brought us some precious elements of our Christian heritage. Only Luke recorded the stories of the Prodigal Son, the sinful woman, the good thief, the Annunciation, and Mary's Magnificat. Luke, a physician and possibly a former slave, had a heart for the poor and respect for women. He emphasized the compassion of Jesus and the forgiveness that Jesus offers. His gospel includes a strong message of inclusiveness with regard to lepers, Gentiles, publicans, and the poor.
As we find ourselves immersed in the stresses of a Presidential election season, perhaps we can seek comfort and healing through a focus on St. Luke and his compassionate spirit on this day.
Saint Luke is said to have never married and is the first Christian physician on record. He is the patron saint of physicians, surgeons, unmarried men, and others. Today is an excellent day to pray for physicians and others who care for the sick.
It is said that a period of a few summer-like days always falls around October 18. These days surrounding the Feast of St. Luke have been referred to as "St. Luke's Little Summer." It seems that this year is no exception, at least here in California. If the weather forcast is to be believed, we will be returning to Fall weather with temperatures in the 60s this weekend, after a week of days in the 90s.
May you be blessed with compassion for, and from, others on Saint Luke's feast day,
Pax Christi,
~Michelle
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Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.” Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”~Luke 7: 44-48
I just came across your blog via your Etsy shop and I wanted to let you know what a wonderful place this is. I especially enjoyed your thoughts on headcoverings. I became Catholic in 2009 and veiled up until about a year ago. I have recently started again and I realize now how much I missed it, and how much more mindful I am of God's presence when I wear it.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you!