We have arrived at the end of Advent and at the end of Luke’s gospel. Tomorrow, we will welcome the birth of our Savior. Immanuel, “God with us.”
Luke’s gospel concludes with the resurrection of Jesus. In 24:44-48, Jesus says to his disciples, “When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And he said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’ You are witnesses of all these things.”
Luke’s story began with the humble birth of Jesus, an event fulfilling centuries-old prophecies of a Messiah. Now, it ends in triumph. Having fulfilled the prophecies, Jesus returns to the Father. What a joyous reunion that must have been.
The joy of Mary and Joseph welcoming Jesus at the 1st Christmas is only matched by our own joy in our salvation, a salvation complete and paid for by Jesus.
Often in this study of Luke’s gospel, I have pointed out unique elements of Luke’s gospel. Why? Because Luke’s perspective is unique from that of Matthew, Mark and John. And you and I also have a unique story to tell of what God has done in our lives. Be sure to share your story with all you love! Merry Christmas!
