FRIDAY OF THE 28TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR
Celebration: St. Luke, Evangelist
A physician from , he was converted to the Christian faith. He was a disciple of and a faithful companion in all his journeys. He was the author of the third Gospel and of the Acts of the Apostles. He was the evangelist who wrote about the childhood of Jesus and who has told us some of the most moving parables of the Lord, such as that of the lost sheep and the prodigal son. In his gospel, he highlights the universality of salvation.
Table of the Word
First Reading: 2 Timothy 4:10–17b
Gospel: Luke 10:1–9
Theme: Heralds of Mercy: Living the Gospel with a Healing Heart
Reflection
Today, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Luke, the beloved physician (cf. Col. 4:14), companion of St. Paul, and author of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. His writings breathe with compassion, emphasizing the mercy of God, the dignity of the poor, and the universality of salvation.
In the first reading, St. Paul, nearing the end of his earthly mission, writes with affection and gratitude: “Only Luke is with me.” (2 Tim. 4:11)
Amid abandonment and trial, Luke’s loyalty shines as a quiet witness to faithful friendship and enduring service. He stands not in the spotlight, but in steadfast support — embodying the heart of a true disciple who remains when others depart.
The Gospel pericope presents the mission of the seventy-two, sent out by Jesus to proclaim peace and healing. “The Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them ahead of him, two by two.” (Luke 10:1) Their task was not merely to announce words but to make present the Kingdom, to heal the sick, comfort the sorrowful, and reveal the nearness of God.
St. Luke’s entire Gospel mirrors this mission. His portrait of Christ is that of the Compassionate Healer: the One who touches lepers, restores sight to the blind, and welcomes sinners with joy. The “physician” Luke presents the Great Physician, Jesus whose medicine is mercy, whose remedy is love. That is why the Catechism of the Catholic Church (no. 2447) beautifully echoes Luke’s vision: “The works of mercy are charitable actions by which we come to the aid of our neighbor in his spiritual and bodily necessities.”
And Pope Francis, following this Lucan spirit, calls all believers to become “missionary disciples of mercy”, bringing the tenderness of God into the wounds of the world.
St. Luke thus stands as a model for evangelizers today, learned yet humble, gifted yet gentle, whose pen was guided by prayer and compassion. He reminds us that to preach Christ effectively, one must also live His mercy faithfully.
Dear friends in Christ, let us proclaim Christ through compassion. As every act of kindness is a living homily of God’s love.
Akso, let us accompany others faithfully. Like Luke, remain loyal and loving, especially in times of difficulty.
Finally, let us heal with our words and deeds. Let our presence bring peace, not division; encouragement, not despair.
+ Peace be with you.
© ARCHIVE 17102025
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