What is the one key idea of this chapter. pay attention to the title of the chapter!
The major idea in chapter five is called to take risks. As disciples of Jesus we are called to take risks and we are reminded of this in the Gospel of Luke. One of the major risks Luke brings up in his gospel is opening our hearts, souls, and minds to remove any boundaries that hinder us from seeing the presence of God. He tells us that loving God is loving our neighbor, especially those who need our help the most. Luke mentions the anawim who are those materially or spiritually poor and are seeking God, and reminds us that Jesus cared for these people and even ate with them. Jesus included everyone. He ate with Gentile sinners, tax collectors, and those considered unclean. Not only were these meals opportunities to welcome all, they were also time for reconciliation, healing, and conversion. We are called to do as Jesus did by welcoming those who are not as fortunate as us, and by reaching out to those who need a helping hand. We are called to take the risks that separate people from one another. We are to do this by answering the call of selfless loving and service to God’s family.
Write about two major ideas you want to remember. Write a short paragraph on each clearly stating the idea and then telling why you want to remember it.
One idea I want to remember from chapter five is parousia. Parousia is a Greek word used in the New Testament and other Greek literature which can refer to the official visit of a ruler or to the appearance of a god. In the New Testament the reference is to the second coming of Christ at the end of time. At the time of Luke’s writing many believed parousia was soon to happen. Parousia is the time when final judgment will take place. Luke cautions his readers to be aware that the end is coming but not as soon as expected. He tells them to concentrate on the manner of Jesus. I want to remember parousia, because sometimes I am worried about the final judgment and where I will end up for eternity. Listening to what Luke has to say about parousia lessens my fear of final judgment and helps me to live everyday the way Jesus wants me to, so I can enter the Kingdom of God.
Another idea is shema. Shema is a Hebrew word meaning “hear.” Shema is the commandment to love God with all one’s heart, soul, and might. It is the Jewish profession of faith. Shema is a prayer recited daily by Jews and was a scripture passage that Jesus would have prayed with all his heart, soul, and might. I want to remember shema, because it is a prayer that Jesus my Lord and Savior prayed everyday. I want to learn about Jesus’ religion, Judaism so I can understand why he did the things he did, especially his treatment to the poor and neglected. I want to better understand Jesus’ words and actions and the prayer, Shema helps me do so.
One image that captures the chapter for you.
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/pic/luke
Why does Jesus call us to take risks? What are some of the problems in taking risks?
