The Care of the Suffering in Luke-Acts

Abstract

The Gospel of Luke uniquely portrays Jesus Christ as a figure of profound compassion and empathy, emphasizing his solidarity with the marginalized and his unwavering commitment to ensuring a dignified life for all, even at the cost of His own life. This Gospel, along with the Book of Acts, highlights a special concern for the suffering and the sick, underscoring themes of mercy, kindness, and social justice more than any other New Testament text. Through parables such as the Good Samaritan and the Rich Man and Lazarus, Luke vividly illustrates the call to love one’s neighbor. The article explores the theme by addressing the following points: (1) Between the annunciation and the synagogue of Nazareth, which sets the stage for Jesus’ mission and His proclamation of social justice; (2) The Sermon on the Plain, which emphasizes radical love and mercy; (3) The Time of the Visitation, highlighting Jesus’ engagement with the marginalized; and (4) The Kingdom of Mercy in Acts, portraying the early Christian community’s commitment to inclusivity, generosity, and communal living as a model for contemporary believers. Overall, Luke’s Gospel and Acts offer a compelling vision of Christian discipleship rooted in compassion, justice, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. St. Luke’s writings continue to inspire and challenge believers to embody Christ’s love and mercy in their daily lives, profoundly impacting the world around them.