Hi friends! Today brings us to the conclusion of Luke's gospel (or at least the first part of it if you include Acts) which means yet again we will read the testimony and account of Jesus death. However, there are some significant differences in Luke's account including but limited to the account of Jesus conversation with the two men on the cross mostly famously known as the story of the penitent thief. Or the famous story that inspired by beloved Emmaus walk tradition. Lastly, Luke makes it clearer than any other gospel that without the women the resurrection would have have never been known. As we conclude the (first part) gospel of Luke what are your thoughts on this gospel? Which gospel is your personal favorite? Why?
Scripture to Read
Audio Bible
Questions to Consider
What does this reveal to me about Jesus?
What was the central message of Luke's gospel? (aside from Jesus is Messiah - what is unique to Luke?)
How do I react to news that seems impossible? (Skeptical, astonished, etc.)
For the next 5 days I've got a number of Bible Project videos to play for you in lieu of any extra commentary sources. So, I invite you to finish the five part series on the gospel of Luke.
Praying the Hymns
Today I want to share two hymns with you, our usual numbered one to match the day, but also one that is directly inspired by the story of the penitent thief. I invite you to listen to whichever hymn you feel called to today...if you are in a positive and optimistic mood looking to give praise to God than listen to hymn 278 - Hosanna, Loud Hosanna. However, if you find yourself feeling a little down or have anything of regret on your heart you might want to mediate on the Taize song - Jesus, Remember Me.
1. Hosanna, loud hosanna,
the little children sang;
through pillared court and temple
the lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, who had blessed them
close folded to his breast,
the children sang their praises,
the simplest and the best.
2. From Olivet they followed
mid an exultant crowd,
the victor palm branch waving,
and chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of earth and heaven
rode on in lowly state,
nor scorned that little children
should on his bidding wait.
3. "Hosanna in the highest!" that ancient song we sing, for Christ is our Redeemer, the Lord of heaven our King. O may we ever praise him with heart and life and voice, and in his blissful presence eternally rejoice!
Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom (repeat)
Of the gospels, I think John remains my favorite just for the quality of the writing and how complete it’s thoughts on the philosophy of Jesus are. Mark feels the most direct in it’s thought, if less verbose. Matthew and Luke feel like histories and that they’re trying to give a complete accurate account of Jesus’ life, with a special emphasis on his birth.
Overall, it’s been a long time since I’ve read the gospels, so revisiting them now with what I’ve learned from the Bible study and reading Zealot, plus the commentary Nick has provided, has been very rewarding. I feel like it’s helped me to narrow down what I feel the focus of my belief is and how…