Friday 18th October 2024 is celebrated as St Luke’s Day in the Christian calendar. St Luke, often known as the “beloved physician” (as Paul refers to him in Colossians 4:14), was both a doctor and the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. It’s quite fitting that Luke, who was both a healer and a storyteller, gives us a unique view of Jesus’ ministry, especially when it comes to healing, compassion, and inclusion.
Luke’s Gospel is remarkable in how much it emphasises Jesus as the healer—not just of the body but of the soul. He doesn’t just record the physical healings of the sick and disabled, but he highlights how Jesus was compassionate to the outcast, forgave the sinner, and welcomed the rejected. If you’re ever feeling a bit overlooked or think that God has bigger things on His mind than your small struggles, just open up Luke’s Gospel. You’ll quickly find that Jesus has a special heart for those who feel marginalised.
A Legacy of Healing
As we reflect on St Luke’s Day, we see how healing is woven throughout scripture. In Luke’s account, we see stories like Jesus healing the ten lepers (Luke 17:11-19) and the woman with the issue of blood (Luke 8:43-48). These aren’t just tales of miraculous events; they are testimonies of faith and reminders that Jesus is always near to those in need.
In many ways, Luke’s profession as a doctor is mirrored in how he writes. He doesn’t just tell us that Jesus healed people—he takes time to describe their conditions, their faith, and their transformation. It’s as if Luke is saying, “Look at how Jesus cared for these people. He still cares for you in the same way today.”
We often limit the idea of healing to the physical realm. But Jesus, as seen in Luke’s writings, is about wholeness—healing not just the body, but the mind, heart, and soul. That’s why Jesus Christ is the ultimate healer. You might be facing challenges today—whether they’re emotional wounds, stress, anxiety, or something physical. St Luke’s life and work remind us that God’s healing power is for every part of our lives.
A Call to Compassion
St Luke was also a companion of Paul, someone who journeyed alongside him during times of imprisonment, suffering, and hardship. This partnership shows us the importance of walking alongside others in their time of need. Healing isn’t just about miraculous interventions; it’s also about companionship, love, and support. In a world where we’re often too busy to stop and check on someone, St Luke’s example encourages us to be present for others, offering words of encouragement and acts of kindness that might just be the healing they need.
A Moment to Reflect
Reflection Verse: “Heal me, Lord, and I shall be healed; save me and I shall be saved, for you are the one I praise.” – Jeremiah 17:14
Reflection Question: What areas of your life do you need healing in today? Are you willing to invite Jesus into those areas and trust His power to heal and restore?
Action Step: Take a moment today to pray for someone you know who is struggling, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Reach out to them with a word of encouragement or a gesture of support.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your healing power that works in our lives every day. As we reflect on St Luke’s legacy, help us to remember that You care about every part of us—our bodies, minds, and souls. Lord, for those who need healing today, we ask that You would touch them with Your power. For those feeling overlooked or forgotten, remind them that You see them and love them deeply. Teach us to walk alongside others as St Luke did, offering compassion and kindness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
