redemptive history as they established a community gathered around temple and law. This temple sustained them through the dark days of oppression under the Persians, Greeks, and eventually Romans. It is not surprising that the early chapters of Luke highlight members of the faithful community gathered around the temple: Zechariah (Luke 1:5–25), Joseph and Mary (2:21–24), Simeon (2:25–35), Anna (2:36–39), and even Jesus (2:41–50). From this community would come not only the Messiah but also an entire