Advent readings: LUKE 1

LUKE 1

St. Luke begins his story of Jesus, introducing himself as a true historian. He interviewed, compared his notes, and did diligent research, trying to achieve one goal – that you, most excellent Theophilus, may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught (Lk. 1:3b-4).

Then he begins a story of John Baptizer’s birth and sandwiched within the story there a prophesy of Jesus’ birth. The chapter has a general chiastic structure:

a. 1:5-25, Birth of John the Baptizer foretold

  b. 1:26-38, Mary listens of Jesus birth

    c. 1:39-45, Mother of John the Baptizer and mother of Jesus meet

  b’. 1:46-56, Mary talks/sings about “visitation of God”

a’. 1:57-80, Birth of John the Baptizer

For a great detailed analyses of these passages, I recommend commentary of Arthur Just on the Gospel of Luke in 2 volumes.

I will just mention two things. First, we meet Zechariah [father of John the Baptizer] in the Temple. It is important to see that Jesus came in the “templish” environment. Sacrifices, psalm singing, fellowship of believers in the Temple courtyard etc. The Messiah came not to abolish the LAW (Torah, the Teaching of God), but to fulfill it (Mt. 5:17). Zechariah is a priest (not a High Priest), who served and waited faithfully the realization of the Old Testament prophecies. To whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:48) – this is why his is discipled with a vow of silence as a result of questioning the abilities of the Creator. When his son is born and John receives his name, Zechariah bursts out with a beautiful hymn, Luke 1:67-79.

Our liturgical tradition kept this song in the rites of Matins and Morning Prayer (cp, LSB 226 and 238). Unfortunately, not many of our churches have morning services on weekdays or prior to Sunday Divine service. That’s why not many people are familiar with this deep theological confession of faith.

Second, Magnificat or my soul magnifies the Lord (Lk. 1:46-55). This song is a part of Vespers or Evening service (LSB 231 and 248). On one hand, the song can be seen as a unique example when a Biblical saint exhibits not a humble behavior – think of how Mary states that all generations will call me blessed (Lk. 1:48b). On the other hand, she doesn’t say anything else but confirms what was said previously by Angel (Lk. 1:28) and Elisabeth (Lk. 1:42). I believe that Mother Mary shows us an example of a proper identification. She knows [to some extent] what awaits her as a mother of Messiah. Very often we think of too high or too low. Unlike us, Mary had a balanced view of herself. She neither calls herself a savior, or lordess, or goddess, not a worthless worm. She responds to Angel – “I am the servant of the LORD; let it be to me according to your WORD” (Lk. 1:38).