How bland would be our theological picture of Jesus without the colorful contributions of Luke's Gospel such as the birth announcements of John and Jesus, the Christmas scene of swaddling clothes, manger, shepherds and angels, Jesus' beloved parables of the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, his last words from the cross, and his resurrection appearance on the Emmaus Road. Luke's lovable Jesus is the epitome of compassion and gentleness.

Michael Patella's excellent exploration of this Gospel mines the motifs of diabolical force, the great reversal of rich and poor, the schism of those who reject Jesus' teaching, and the essential Christian response of joy. Study of this commentary will give joy to the reader.