September 23, 2026 - Luke 24

John tells the story of Lazarus’ death and Jesus’ words of comfort to Martha:  “I am the resurrection and the life.  Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die” (John 11:25-26).  The closing chapters of the Gospels, as here in Luke, tell about Jesus’ death and resurrection.  Then, they each report the final words of the resurrected Jesus to his disciples.  Here, in Luke:  “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.  You are witnesses of these things” (24:46-48).  Someone has observed, “Last words are important words.”  It is important to note that in each of the Gospels, and in Acts 1, Jesus leaves his disciples with instructions as to what they were to do.

O for a thousand tongues to sing

my great Redeemer's praise,

the glories of my God and King,

the triumphs of his grace!

My gracious Master and my God,

assist me to proclaim,

to spread thro’ all the earth abroad

the honors of your name.

Jesus! the name that charms our fears,

that bids our sorrows cease,

‘tis music in the sinner’s ears,

‘tis life and health and peace.   -- Charles Wesley (1739)