At the beginning of his Gospel, Luke points out he is writing a version of the good news and that he has a special reason for doing so (Luke 1:1-4).

First, Luke recognizes some people who had been eyewitnesses to the events of the life of Jesus. Then, there were some who were “ministers of the word”, a second generation. There now is a third generation in which Luke puts himself and his task is to provide an orderly account that gives  certainty about the teachings of Jesus.

Luke writes to Theophilus who is a Greek person – a Gentile – in order for Theophilus to be confident of the teachings he has received regarding the Christian faith. Luke wants Theophilus to be sure, after he has read this story of Jesus [Luke’s Gospel], how well-grounded and reliable the teaching is that he [Theophilus] has received.

Luke is addressing a Gentile audience, telling them a story of things that happened a few generations previous and in a different place. Luke’s intention is clear: that Theophilus and every reader of his Gospel know with certainty that they themselves belong to this story. The story of Jesus is their own story. Jesus’ life, death and resurrection is the foundation – solid bedrock – of everything they believe and the way they live.

So, also, does the presence and power of Jesus give us hope.

Jesus still is the reason for our hope, our belief and they way we dare to live.