Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings. Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea.
I find it interesting that Paul references Luke here as the good doctor and a dear friend. The Apostles had the ability to supernaturally heal people, yet they still benefited from the skills of a physician or doctor. Luke was a highly educated man, who could have made and kept a lot of money as a doctor. Instead, he dedicated himself to the service of the church. He was also a good friend. My guess is he was the epitome of bedside manner! He likely listened, sympathized, understood, and mended the hurts and pains of those on the front lines.
He also recorded much of the gospel accounts of Jesus and his apostles in the books of The Gospel of Luke and Acts. So we know he was a student of the word of God. These are the things that made him a great encouragement to Paul and the church.
I also think it was great that Paul encouraged the reading of the Colossians letter to the Laodiceans and vice versa. This process would have likely involved the leaders of each church joining the other church body. This would have facilitated a good working relationship and maybe even accountability between the leaders.
Luke sewed up and mended wounds for those physically injured. He also listened and encouraged and kept a record of the works of the Lord, to be remembered and celebrated.
Paul encouraged the churches to also help each other mend wounds and heal spiritually. He wanted them to grow in their faith and be a support and strength for each other.
Who can I help heal and support as they gain strength in a tough time?
Lord, thank you for your faithful servant, Doctor Luke. He ministered and loved with his gifts and also recorded and helped celebrate your spiritual victories. He was dearly loved. Help me to take after him in how I live.
