Theophilos

"Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things which have been accomplished among us, just as they were delivered to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and minsters of the word, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilos, that you may know the truth concerning the things of which you have been informed." (Luke 1:1-4)

Those words, which begin the Gospel According to Luke, also act as the springboard for the imagination of Canadian author and artist, Michael D. O'Brien, for his recent novel Theophilos, a fictional account regarding the man to whom St. Luke addressed his Gospel narrative.

In the novel, which makes excellent use of the historical settings of Crete and Judea in the late first century, Theophilos is a physician and agnostic, and the uncle/stepfather of "Loukas" (St. Luke). Out of concern for Loukas, Theophilos sets out on a journey to "save" his nephew/son from the clutches of the followers of the "Christos." Along the way, Theophilos comes into contact with many individuals connected with the early Christian community and develops a new appreciation for the nascent Christian faith.

I was particularly impressed with the unique mixture of history and fiction that Mr. O'Brien used to bring so many ancient figures to life. From well-known biblical figures, such as Lazarus and the woman at the well, to secular figures, such as the Roman historian Josephus, Mr. O'Brien presents a vast array of characters, each providing a different perspective on the impact (or perceived lack thereof) of Jesus.

Interestingly, although the novel is set nearly 2,000 years ago, the struggles of Theophilos as he comes to grips with the reality of Jesus are timeless. Many of the (ultimately futile) arguments that Theophilos puts forth against Christ and his followers are the same protestations that modern men and women put forth as they struggle to justify their own inability to deal with the truth of Christ.

Simply put, the novel is magnificent. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone looking for a thought-provoking, entertaining, moving and, ultimately, enlightening read.