The Echo

Luke’s Gospel is proclaimed in 2022.

The pithy prologue (Luke 1:1-4) offers three convictions when we listen to the Word of God.

Confidence

Luke writes to confirm believers in the faith that has been ‘handed over’ to them.

Luke has done his homework and is going to set down an ‘orderly account’ of all that Jesus said and did, as testified by ‘eyewitnesses and ‘ministers of the word.’

This inspires confidence in approaching the Word of God.

The word confidence comes from the Latin (fiducia) meaning trust. To be confident means to listen, to read ‘with trust.’

‘Theophilus’

Was Luke commissioned by a person called Theophilus?

Possibly. You’ll find his name mentioned again at the beginning of the Acts of the Apostles.

The word means, ‘Loved by God’ or ‘Lover of God.’ Or both.

When you listen to the Word of God:

Remember. You are ‘Loved by God.’

Remember. You are called to be a ‘Lover of God.’

It’s not about accumulating knowledge. It’s about knowledge ‘giving way’ to love.

‘The Echo.’

The Catechism of the Catholic Church, and its subsidiaries – YOUCAT (Youth Catechism) and YOUCAT for Kids – are superb faith documents. They should be in our homes, lying around the place.

Catechise comes from the Greek and means ‘to echo.’

Someone proclaims the Word of God – the word of truth, love and hope. This word echoes in the heart of the listener. When the Holy Spirit is present, ‘the echo’ has lasting effect.

When you listen to the Word of God expect to feel the echo. You are a person of faith.

Take note of the echo. Treasure the echo. Act on the echo.

Amen.