Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 1:18-24)

Amo ini ang pagkatawo ni Jesu-Cristo: Si Maria nga iya iloy kalaslon na kay Jose. Pero sa wala pa sila maghiusa nasapwan ni Maria nga nagabusong na siya paagi sa Espiritu Santo.

Karon, si Jose nga mangin iya bana isa ka matarong nga tawo kag indi siya luyag nga mahuy-an si Maria sa mga tawo. Gani ginpakamaayo niya nga bulagan si Maria sa tago lang.

Samtang ginahunahuna ni Jose ang iya himuon, nagpakita sa iya sa damgo ang anghel sang Ginoo nga nagasiling, "Jose, kaliwat ni David, indi ka magkahadlok nga magpangasawa kay Maria, kay nagabusong siya paagi sa Espiritu Santo.

Magabata siya sing lalaki kag ngalanan mo siya nga Jesus, kay luwason niya ang iya katawhan sa ila mga sala."

Natabo ini agod matuman ang ginsiling sang Ginoo paagi sa propeta nga nagsiling,

"Magabusong ang isa ka ulay, kag magabata siya sing lalaki. Kag ang ini nga bata pagatawgon nga Emmanuel" (nga kon sayuron, "Ang Dios kaupod naton").

Gani pagbugtaw ni Jose gintuman niya ang ginsiling sang anghel sang Ginoo, kag ginpangasawa niya si Maria.

***

Meditation:  

Do you hold on to the promises of God at all times, especially when you are faced with uncertainty or adversity? The prophets Jeremiah and Isaiah spoke words of hope in a hopeless situation for Israel. The Davidic dynasty was corrupt and unfit for a Messianic King. Apostates like King Ahaz (2 Kings 16) and weaklings like Zedekiah (Jeremiah 38) occupied the throne of David. How could God be faithful to his promise to raise up a righteous King who would rule forever over the house of David? The prophets trusted that God could somehow “raise up a righteous shoot” from the stump of Jesse (Isaiah 2:11).  Like the prophets we are called “in hope to believe against hope” (Romans 4:18) that God can and will fulfill all his promises. 

Mary had to face an enormous challenge to her faith and trust in God and to the faith of her family and Joseph, the man she chose to marry. She was asked to assume a burden of tremendous responsibility. It had never been heard of before that a child could be born without a natural father. Mary was asked to accept this miraculous exception to the laws of nature. That required faith and trust in God and in his promises. Second, Mary was not yet married. Pregnancy outside of wedlock was not tolerated in those days. Mary was only espoused to Joseph, and such an engagement had to last for a whole year. She was asked to assume a great risk. She could have been rejected by Joseph, by her family, by all her own people. Mary knew that Joseph and her family would not understand without revelation from God. She nonetheless believed and trusted in God's promises. 

Joseph, a just and God-fearing man, did not wish to embarrass or punish his espoused wife, Mary when he discovered that she was pregnant. To all appearances she had broken their solemn pledge to be faithful and chaste to one another. Joseph, no doubt took this troubling matter to God in prayer. He was not hasty to judge or to react with hurt and anger. God rewarded him not only with guidance and consolation, but with the divine assurance that he had indeed called Joseph to be the husband of Mary and to assume a mission that would require the utmost faith, confidence, and trust in Almighty God. Joseph believed in the divine message to take Mary as his wife and to accept the child in her womb as the promised Messiah. Like Mary, Joseph is a model of faith for us. He is a faithful witness and servant of God's unfolding plan of redemption. Are you ready to believe in the promises of God, even when faced with perplexing circumstances and what seems like insurmountable problems? God has not left us alone, but has brought us his only begotten Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let us celebrate Christmas, the feast of the Incarnation, with joyful hearts and let us renew our faith and hope in God and in his redeeming work. 

"Lord Jesus, you came to save us from sin and the power of death. May I always rejoice in your salvation and trust in your plan for my life".

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 1:1-17)

Amo ini ang mga katigulangan ni Jesu-Cristo nga kaliwat ni David. Si David nga ini kaliwat ni Abraham.

Si Abraham amay ni Isaac, si Isaac amay ni Jacob, kag si Jacob amay ni Juda kag sang iya mga utod nga lalaki.

Si Juda nakapangasawa kay Tamar kag may duha sila ka anak nga si Fares kag si Zara. Si Fares amay ni Esrom, kag si Esrom amay ni Aram.

Si Aram amay ni Aminadab, si Aminadab amay ni Naason, kag si Naason amay ni Salmon.

Si Salmon nakapangasawa kay Rahab kag ang ila anak amo si Booz. Si Booz amay ni Obed kag ang iya sini iloy amo si Ruth. Si Obed amay ni Jesse, kag si Jesse amay ni Haring David.

Si Haring David amay ni Solomon kag ang iya iloy asawa anay ni Orias.

Si Solomon amay ni Roboam, si Roboam amay ni Abias, kag si Abias amay ni Asa.

Si Asa amay ni Josafat, si Josafat amay ni Joram, kag si Joram amay ni Ozias.

Si Ozias amay ni Jotam, si Jotam amay ni Acaz, kag si Acaz amay ni Esequias.

Si Esequias amay ni Manases, si Manases amay ni Amos, si Amos amay ni Josias, kag si Josias amay ni Jeconias kag sang iya mga utod nga lalaki. Sa sadto nga panahon ginbihag ang mga taga-Israel pa-Babilonia.

Amo ini ang lista sang katigulangan ni Jesus sa tapos mabihag ang mga taga-Israel pa-Babilonia: si Jeconias amay ni Salatiel, si Salatiel amay ni Zorobabel, si Zorobabel amay ni Abiud, si Abiud amay ni Eliaquim, kag si Eliaquim amay ni Azor.

Si Azor amay ni Sadoc, si Sadoc amay ni Aquim, kag si Aquim amay ni Eliud.

Si Eliud amay ni Eleazar, si Eleazar amay ni Matan, si Matan amay ni Jacob, si Jacob amay ni Jose nga bana ni Maria. Si Maria amo ang iloy ni Jesus nga ginatawag Cristo.

Gani may 14 ka mga henerasyon halin kay Abraham hasta kay David. Kag may 14 man ka mga henerasyon halin kay David hasta sa pagbihag sa mga taga-Israel pa-Babilonia. Halin sa pagbihag pa-Babilonia may 14 pa gid ka mga henerasyon hasta kay Cristo.

***

Meditation:

Do you know who your ancestors were, where they came from, and what they passed on from their generation to the next? Genealogies are very important. They give us our roots and help us to understand our heritage. Matthew's genealogy of Jesus traces his lineage from Abraham, the father of God's chosen people, through the line of David, King of Israel. Jesus the Messiah is the direct descent of Abraham and David, and the rightful heir to David's throne. God in his mercy fulfilled his promises to Abraham and to David that he would send a Savior and a King to rule over the house of Israel and to deliver them from their enemies. 

When Jacob blessed his sons he foretold that Judah would receive the promise of royalty which we see fulfilled in David (Genesis 49:10). We can also see in this blessing a foreshadowing of God's fulfillment in raising up his annointed King, Jesus the Messiah. Jesus is the fulfillment of all God's promises. He is the hope not only for the people of the Old Covenant but for all nations as well. He is the Savior of the world who redeems us from slavery to sin and Satan and makes us citizens of the kingdom of God. In him we receive adoption into a royal priesthood and holy nation as sons and daughters of the living God (see 1 Peter 1:9). Do you recognize your spiritual genealogy and do you accept God as your Father and Jesus as the sovereign King and Lord of your life?

"Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Messiah and Savior of the world, the hope of Israel and the hope of the nations. Be the ruler of my heart and the king of my home. May there be nothing in my life that is not under your wise rule and care."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 7:24-30)

Sang makahalin na ang mga ginsugo ni Juan, nagpamangkot si Jesus sa mga tawo, "Sang pagkadto ninyo kay Juan sa kamingawan, ano ang inyo ginapaabot nga makita? Nagkadto bala kamo didto agod makita ninyo ang tawo nga nagapaayon-ayon lang pareho sang kugon nga ginahapay-hapay sang hangin?

Ukon nagkadto bala kamo didto agod makita ninyo ang tawo nga nagabayo sang malahalon? Pero ang mga tawo nga nagabayo sang malahalon kag nagapagusto sang ila pangabuhi nagaestar sa mga palasyo.

Abi sugiri ninyo ako kon ngaa nagkadto kamo didto. Indi bala para makita ninyo ang propeta sang Dios? Huo, kag labaw pa gani siya sa propeta.

Kay siya amo ang ginasiling sang Dios sa Kasulatan, 'Ipadala ko ang akon manugbalita una sa imo sa pagpreparar sang imo alagyan.' "

Nagsiling pa gid si Jesus, "Sa pagkamatuod, hasta karon wala pa gid sing may natawo sa kalibutan nga maglabaw pa kay Juan. Pero karon ang bisan sin-o nga labing kubos sa mga nagapasakop sa paghari sang Dios mas labaw pa kay Juan."

Pagkabati sang mga tawo, pati sang mga manugsukot sang buhis sa mga pagpanudlo ni Jesus, nagkomporme sila sa ginapahimo sang Dios, kay ini sila nagpabautiso na kay Juan.

Pero ang mga Pariseo kag ang mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan wala nagkomporme sa katuyuan sang Dios para sa ila, kay ini sila wala magpabautiso kay Juan. 

***

Meditation:  

Who is the greatest in the kingdom of God? Jesus praised John the Baptist as the greatest person born. Who can top that as a compliment? But in the same breath Jesus says that the least in the kingdom of God is even greater than John! That sounds like a contradiction, right? Unless you understand that what Jesus was about to accomplish for our sake would supercede all that the prophets had done and foreseen. John is the last and greatest of the prophets of the old covenant. He fulfilled the essential task of all the prophets – to be fingers pointing to Christ, God's Annointed Son and Messiah. John proclaimed Jesus' mission at the River Jordan when he exclaimed, Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). John saw from a distance what Jesus would accomplish through his death on the cross – our redemption from bondage to sin and death and our adoption as sons and daughers of God and citizens of the kingdom of heaven. 

Why did Jesus say that John the Baptist was more than a prophet? John was the voice of the Consoler who is coming (John 1:23; Isaiah 40:1-3). He completed the cycle of prophets begun by Elijah (Matt. 11:13-14). What the prophets had carefully searched for and angels longed to see, now came to completion as John made the way ready for the coming of the Messiah, God's Anointed Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. With John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit begins the restoration to the human race of the "divine likeness", prefiguring what would be achieved with and in the Lord Jesus. John's baptism was for repentance – turning away from sin and taking on a new way of life according to God's word. Our baptism in Jesus Christ by water and the Spirit results in a new birth and entry into God's kingdom as his beloved sons and daughters (John 3:5). Jesus is ready to give us the fire of his Spirit that we may radiate the joy and truth of the gospel to a world in desperate need of God's light and truth. His word has power to change and transform our lives that we may be lights pointing others to Christ. Like John the Baptist, we too are called to give testimony to the light and truth of Jesus Christ. Do you point others to Christ in the way you live, work, and speak? 

"Lord, let your light burn brightly in my heart that I may know the joy and freedom of your kingdom. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and empower me to witness the truth of your gospel and to point others to Jesus Christ."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 7:18-23)

Ini tanan nga mga hitabo ginbalita kay Juan sang iya mga sumulunod.

Gani gintawag ni Juan ang duha sang iya mga sumulunod kag ginsugo niya nga magkadto sa Ginoo sa pagpamangkot, "Ikaw bala ang amon ginapaabot ukon mahulat pa kami sang iban?"

Gani nagkadto sila kay Jesus. Pag-abot nila didto madamo ang ginapang-ayo ni Jesus nga mga masakiton, bisan ang mga grabe gid nga mga balatian, kag ang mga ginagamhan sang malaot nga espiritu. Madamo man nga mga bulag ang iya ginpang-ayo. Karon, nagpamangkot kay Jesus ang duha ka sumulunod ni Juan. Siling nila, "Ginsugo kami ni Juan nga manugbautiso sa pagpamangkot sa imo kon ikaw bala ang amon ginapaabot ukon mahulat pa kami sang iban?"

Ginsabat sila ni Jesus, "Magbalik kamo kay Juan kag sugiri ninyo siya sang inyo nakita kag sang inyo nabatian. Sugiri ninyo siya nga ang mga bulag nakakita, ang mga piang nakalakat, ang mga aruon nag-ayo, ang mga bungol nakabati, ang mga patay nabanhaw, kag ang Maayong Balita ginawali sa mga imol.

Bulahan ang mga tawo nga wala nagaduhaduha sa akon." 

***

Meditation:  

How do we know that Jesus is who he claims to be, the Son of God, Messiah, and Savior of the world? Is our faith a blind leap we must take without certainty or proof? John the Baptist sends his disciples to question Jesus about his claim to be God's anointed Messiah. Did John have doubts about Jesus and his claim to divinity? Not likely, since John revealed Jesus' mission at the River Jordan when he exclaimed, Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). John saw from a distance what Jesus would accomplish through his death on the cross – our redemption from bondage to sin and death and our adoption as sons and daughers of God and citizens of the kingdom of heaven. John very likely sent his disciples to Jesus because he wanted them to hear and see firsthand for themselves the signs and proof that the Messiah had indeed come in the person of Jesus Christ. 

The miracles which Jesus performed and his message about the kingdom or reign of God directly fulfilled what the prophets had foretold (see Isaiah 29:18-19; 35:5-6; 61:1). Isaiah had prophesied that the Messiah would come in the power of the Holy Spirit to bring freedom to those oppressed by sin and evil (see Isaiah 61:1-2). Jesus came to set people free from the worst tyranny possible – the tyranny of slavery to sin and the fear of death, and the destruction of both body and soul. God's power alone can save us from emptiness and poverty of spirit, from confusion and error, and from the fear of death and hopelessness. The gospel of salvation is "good news" for us today. Do you know the joy and freedom of the gospel? 

"Lord Jesus, you are the fulfillment of all our hopes and desires. Your Spirit brings us grace, truth, life, and freedom. Fill me with the joy of the gospel and inflame my heart with love and zeal for you and for your will".

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 21:28-32)

Nagsiling liwat si Jesus sa ila, "Suno sa inyo hunahuna, ano ang buot silingon sini? May isa ka tawo nga may duha ka anak nga lalaki. Ginkadtuan niya ang magulang kag ginsilingan, 'Toto, magkadto ka karon sa aton talamnan sang ubas kag mag-obra.'

Nagsabat siya, 'Indi ako!' Pero sang ulihi nagbaylo ang iya hunahuna kag nagkadto siya sa ila talamnan kag nag-obra.

Nagkadto man ang amay sa manghod kag ginsilingan man niya siya pareho sang iya ginsiling sa magulang. Nagsabat ang manghod, 'Huo, tay,' pero wala siya nagtuman.

Ti, diin sa duha ang nagtuman sang sugo sang iya amay?" Nagsabat sila, "Ang magulang." Nagsiling si Jesus sa ila, "Sa pagkamatuod, nauna pa sa inyo nga nagapasakop sa paghari sang Dios ang mga manugsukot sang buhis kag ang mga babayi nga nagbaligya sang ila dungog.

Kay si Juan nga manugbautiso nagkadto diri kag nagtudlo sa inyo sang husto nga paagi agod mangin matarong kamo sa atubangan sang Dios, pero wala kamo nagpati sa iya. Ang mga manugsukot sang buhis kag ang mga babayi nga nagbaligya sang ila dungog nagpati sa iya. Kag bisan nakita ninyo ini, wala gid kamo nagbag-o sang inyo hunahuna kag nagpati sa iya." 

***

Meditation: 

Jesus asks us a simple question: What do you think? Who will inherit the kingdom of heaven? Scripture warns that the proud and the haughty will fall, but the humble and lowly will be raised up. Pride leads to sin and rebellion. Humility leads to repentance and submission to the will of God. The prophets of Israel warned their people that unfaithfulness and disobedience would lead to their downfall – they would be scattered among the nations and lose everything that was once precious to them – their temple and holy city Jerusalem, their royal priesthood, their unity as a holy nation, and their covenant relationship with God as his chosen ones would be damaged as well. Israel suffered disgrace and lost hope of mercy and restoration. The prophet Zephaniah reminded his people that God would bring healing, pardon, and restoration to those who turned back to him with repentance and trust. 

Jesus shocked the self-righteous Jews, who outwardly practiced the external rituals of their religion while inwardly harboring evil thoughts and intentions, by declaring that the tax collectors and harlots would enter the kingdom of God before them. Jesus illustrated his point with a simple story of two imperfect sons. The father amply provided for his sons everthing they needed – food, clothing, and shelter. He thought they would be grateful to work for him in exchange for his generous provision and care for them. He expected them to show their gratitude and respect through their obedience and diligence in tending his vineyard. Although the "rebellious" son told his father to his face that he would not work for him, he afterwards changed his mind and did what his father commanded him to do. The "good" son said he would work for his father, but didn't carry through. He did his own will contrary to his father's will. Now who was really the good son? Both sons disobeyed their father; but one repented and then did what the father told him. 

Jesus makes his point clear: Good intentions are not enough. And promises don't count unless they are performed. God wants to change our hearts so that we will show by our actions that we respect his will and do it. God offers each of us the greatest treasure possible – unending peace, joy, happiness, and life with him in his kingdom. We can lose that treasure if we refuse the grace God offers us to follow in his way of truth, love, and righteousness. Jesus encourages us to think – to think about the consequences of our choices, especially the choices and decisions that will count not just for now but for eternity as well. The choices we make now will affect and shape our future, both our future on earth as well as in the life of the age to come. Are you ready to obey your heavenly Father and to choose for his kingdom of righteousness and peace? 

"Lord Jesus, change my heart that I may desire to do whatever is pleasing to you. Help me to respect your will and give me the strength, joy, and perseverance to carry it out wholeheartedly."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 21:23-27)

Nagsulod liwat si Jesus sa templo kag nagpanudlo sa mga tawo. May manugdumala didto nga mga pari kag mga manugdumala sang mga Judio nga nagpalapit sa iya kag nagpamangkot, "Ano bala ang imo awtoridad sa paghimo sang mga butang nga imo ginahimo diri sa templo? Sin-o ang naghatag sa imo sang sini nga awtoridad?"

Nagsabat si Jesus sa ila, "Mamangkot man ako sa inyo. Kag kon masabat ninyo ini, sabton ko man kamo kon ano ang akon awtoridad sa paghimo sini nga mga butang.

Kay sin-o bala naghalin ang awtoridad ni Juan sa pagbautiso, sa Dios bala ukon sa tawo?" Nagbinaisay sila kon ano ang ila isabat. Siling nila, "Kon magsiling kita nga 'Halin sa Dios,' masiling siya, 'Ti ngaa wala kamo nagpati kay Juan?'

Pero kon magsiling kita nga 'Halin sa tawo,' delikado kita sa mga tawo kay nagapati sila nga si Juan propeta sang Dios."

Gani nagsabat sila kay Jesus, "Wala kami makahibalo." Dayon nagsiling si Jesus sa ila, "Ti indi ko man kamo pagsugiran kon kay sin-o awtoridad ginahimo ko ini nga mga butang." 

***

Meditation: 

Are you willing to take a stand for the truth, even when it might cost you personally because of opposition or disapproval from others? When we fear the disapproval or rejection of our friends we are tempted to be evasive and to bluff our way to avoid confrontation or trouble. Jesus told his disciples that the truth would make them free - free to think and act according to what they know is right, honest, and good, rather than yield to deception, lies, and evil (John 8:32). 

When the Israelites began to enter the promised land, after their wilderness sojourn of forty years, they met stiff resistance and opposition from the people around them. Balak, one of the local rulers in Canaan, employed the services of Balaam, a prophet of Baal, to put a curse upon the Israelites. Balak wanted to scare the Israelites away through fear and ill omen. Balaam, however, prophesied blessing and protection to the Israelites rather than cursing and destruction. He yielded to the Spirit of truth rather than to the spirit of falsehood. He spoke the word of God contrary to the words which King Balak wanted him to speak. Balaam even prophesied that a star would one day announce the coming of the Messiah King from the house of Jacob. This king would destroy all the enemies of God's people and establish a kingdom of peace (Numbers 24:17). 

When the prophet John the Baptist began to preach a message of repentance in preparation for the coming of the Messiah, the religious leaders and rulers in Palestine resisted his word and persecuted him as well. Jesus met resistance, opposition, and fierce hostility from the religious rulers as well. Why did the religious leaders oppose Jesus and reject his claim to divine authority? Their view of religion did not match with God's word because their hearts were set on personal gain rather than truth and submission to God's plan and design for their lives. They openly questioned Jesus to discredit his claim to be the Messiah. If Jesus says his authority is divine they will charge him with blasphemy. If he has done this on his own authority they might well arrest him as a mad zealot before he could do more damage. Jesus, seeing through their trap, poses a question to them and makes their answer a condition for his answer. Did they accept the work of John the Baptist as divine or human? If they accepted John's work as divine, they would be compelled to accept Jesus as the Messiah. They dodged the question because they were unwilling to face the truth. They did not accept the Baptist and they would not accept Jesus as their Messiah. 

The coming of God's kingdom or reign on the earth inevitably leads to conflict – a conflict of allegiance to God's will or my will, God's justice or the world's way of playing fair, God's standard of absolute moral truth or truth relative to what I want to believe is good and useful for the time being. How do you respond to Jesus' claim to be not only the Messiah, but the source of everlasting life and truth as well? Do you submit to his word and stake your life on the coming of his kingdom? Jesus promises that those who seek to live according to God's truth will find true joy, freedom, and happiness both now and forever. 

"Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let your light shine in my heart and in my mind that I may grow in understanding the truth of your word and find joy and freedom in living according to it."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 11:2-11)

Sang yara pa si Juan nga manugbautiso sa sulod sang prisohan, nabatian niya ang parte sa mga ginhimo ni Cristo, gani ginpakadto niya kay Cristo ang iya mga sumulunod agod magpamangkot.

Nagsiling sila kay Jesus, "Sugiri kami, ikaw bala ang amon ginapaabot ukon mahulat pa kami sang iban?"

Ginsabat sila ni Jesus, "Magbalik kamo kay Juan kag sugiri ninyo siya sang inyo nakita kag nabatian.

Sugiri ninyo siya nga ang mga bulag nakakita, ang mga piang nakalakat, ang mga aruon nag-ayo, ang mga bungol nakabati, ang mga patay nabanhaw, kag ang Maayong Balita ginawali sa mga imol.

Bulahan ang mga tawo nga wala nagaduha-duha sa akon."

Sang makahalin na ang mga sumulunod ni Juan, nagpamangkot si Jesus sa mga tawo, "Sang pagkadto ninyo kay Juan sa kamingawan, ano ang inyo ginapaabot nga makita? Nagkadto bala kamo didto agod makita ninyo ang tawo nga nagapaayon-ayon lang pareho sang kugon nga ginahapay-hapay sang hangin?

Ukon nagkadto bala kamo didto agod makita ninyo ang tawo nga nagabayo sang malahalon? Pero ang nagabayo sang malahalon nagaestar sa mga palasyo.

Abi sugiri ninyo ako kon ngaa nagkadto kamo didto. Indi bala para makita ninyo ang propeta sang Dios? Huo, kag labaw pa gani siya sa propeta.

Kay siya amo ang ginasiling sang Dios sa Kasulatan, 'Ipadala ko ang akon manugbalita una sa imo sa pagpreparar sang imo alagyan.' "

Nagsiling pa gid si Jesus, "Sa pagkamatuod, hasta karon wala pa gid sing may natawo sa kalibutan nga maglabaw pa kay Juan. Pero karon ang bisan sin-o nga labing kubos sa mga nagapasakop sa paghari sang Dios mas labaw pa kay Juan.

***

Meditation: 

Why did Jesus praise John the Baptist as the greatest person born of a woman and then in the same breath say that those who enter God's kingdom will be greater than John (Matthew 11:11)?  John is the last and greatest of the prophets of the old covenant. He fulfilled the essential task of all the prophets – to be fingers pointing to Christ, God's Annointed Son and Messiah. John prepared the way for the Messiah and he pointed others to Jesus the Messiah at the River Jordan when he exclaimed, Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29)  John saw from a distant what Jesus would accomplish through his death on the cross – our redemption from bondage to sin and death and our adoption as sons and daughers of God and citizens of the kingdom of heaven. Jesus knew that what the Father had sent him to accomplish for our sake would supercede all that the prophets had done and foreseen in the past. Jesus offers us not only pardon and healing. He gives us abundant life and the promise of unending joy with him in his kingdom. 

When King Herod tried to silence John by throwing him into prison, John sent his disciples to Jesus after John had heard the reports about Jesus performing signs and wonders and speaking to people about the coming of God's kingdom. John wanted his disciples to hear and see firsthand what Jesus was doing to bring the kingdom of God to those who were receptive and ready to receive his message. Jesus confirmed for John that the miracles and healings which he performed were in direct fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies announced by Isaiah some 700 years previously. Isaiah had prophesied that when the Messiah would come to save his people he would "open the eyes of the blind and the ears of the deaf, the lame would leap, and the tongue of the dumb sing for joy" (Isaiah 35:5).  Jesus' miracles are a demonstration of the power of God's kingdom at work  in the midst of his people. When God acts to save his people he turns their sorrow and weeping into joy and singing, and their fear and weakness into strength and hope. 

When Jesus had answered the disciples of John, he in turn asked them a question. "Why did you go out in the wilderness to see John the Baptist?" "Did you go because you were hungry for the word of the Lord?" Jesus said that John was more than a spokesman for God. John was the faithful witness and friend of the bridegroom who pointed others to the presence of the Messiah in their midst. Jesus contrasted John with the image of a reed shaken by the wind. Unlike a reed which is weak and spineless and can be easily crushed or bruised, John stood as a pillar of strength and truth in the face of opposition and persecultion. No demonic force could weaken or crush John in his unswerving trust in God and his word. The Lord Jesus offers us the same assurance of faith and strength of hope and courage to stand against every force that would try to rob us of our faith and trust in God. Where do you place your trust and hope? In the things that fade or pass away, or in the abiding word of God which never fails and in his everlasting kingdom which will never perish? 

"Lord Jesus, strengthen my trust in your word and my hope in the saving power of your kingdom. Free me from everything that would hold me back from pursuing your kingdom and your will for my life."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 17:10-13)

Pagkatapos, nagpamangkot sa iya ang iya mga sumulunod, "Ngaa bala nagasiling ang mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan nga kinahanglan mag-abot anay si Elias sa wala pa mag-abot ang Cristo?"

Nagsabat si Jesus sa ila, "Husto ina, kinahanglan nga mag-abot anay si Elias agod ipreparar niya ang tanan nga mga butang.

Pero sugiran ko kamo, si Elias nag-abot na. Ugaling wala lang siya nakilala sang mga tawo kag ginhimo nila ang ila gusto sa iya. Kag amo man ang ila himuon sa akon nga Anak sang Tawo. Paantuson man nila ako."

Dayon nahangpan sang iya mga sumulunod nga si Juan nga manugbautiso amo ang iya ginatumod.

***

Meditation: 

God gives signs to show what he is about to do. John the Baptist is one such sign, who pointed to Jesus and prepared the way for his coming.  John fulfilled the essential task of all the prophets: to be fingers pointing to Christ. John is the last and greatest prophet of the old kingdom, the old covenant. The Jews expected that when the Messiah would come, Elijah would appear to announce his presence. John fills the role of Elijah and prepares the way for the coming of Christ by preaching a baptism of repentance and renewal. As watchful servants, we, too must prepare for the Lord's coming again by turning away from sin and from everything that would keep us from pursuing his will. Are you eager to do God's will and are you prepared to meet the Lord Jesus when he returns in glory? 

"Lord Jesus, stir my zeal for your righteousness and for your kingdom. Free me from complacency and from compromising with the ways of sin and worldliness that I may be wholeheartedly devoted to you and to your kingdom."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 11:16-19)

"Karon, sa ano ko bala ipaanggid ang mga tawo sa sini nga tiyempo? Pareho sila sang mga bata nga nagapungko sa plasa nga nagahampang. Ang isa ka grupo nagasiling sa isa,

'Gintukaran namon kamo sang sunata nga para sa kasal, pero wala kamo magsaot. Ginkantahan namon kamo sang kanta nga para sa patay, pero wala man kamo maghibi.'

Ang mga tawo sa sini nga tiyempo pareho man sa ila, kay sang pag-abot ni Juan, nakita nila nga nagapuasa siya kag wala nagainom sang bino, gani nagasiling sila nga may malaot siya nga espiritu.

Kag ako nga Anak sang Tawo, pag-abot ko, nakita nila nga nagakaon kag nagainom, gani nagasiling sila nga palakaon ako kag palainom. Nagasiling pa gid sila nga abyan ako sang mga manugsukot sang buhis kag sang iban pa nga makasasala. Pero indi bali, ang mga tawo nga nagasunod sa kabubut-on sang Dios nagapamatuod nga husto ang ginapahimo sang Dios."

***

Meditation:

Do you seek God's way of peace and wisdom for your life? The prophets remind us that God’s kingdom is open to those who are teachable and receptive to the word of God. Through their obedience to God's word and commandments, they receive not only wisdom and peace for themselves, but they, in turn become a blessing to their children and their offspring as well. Jesus warns the generation of his day to heed God's word before it is too late. He compares teachers and scholars, and those who have been taught, with stubborn playmates who refuse to follow any sort of direction or instruction. Jesus’ parable about disappointed playmates challenge us to examine whether we are selective to only hear what we want to hear. The children in Jesus' parable react with dismay because they cannot get anyone to follow their instruction. They complain that if they play their music at weddings, no one will dance or sing; and if they play at funerals, it is the same. This refrain echoes the words of Ecclesiastes 3:4 – "there is a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance." Are you in tune with the message of God's kingdom? And do you obey it without reservation? Jesus' message of the kingdom of God is good news to those who will listen and it produces true joy and spiritual freedom for them; but it is also a warning for those who refuse to obey. 

Why did the message of John the Baptist and the message of Jesus meet with deaf ears and resistance? It was out of jealously and spiritual blindness that the scribes and Pharisees attributed John the Baptist's austerities to the devil and they attributed Jesus' table fellowship with sinners as evidence that he must be a false messiah. They succeeded in frustrating God's plan for their lives because they had closed their hearts to the message of  John the Baptist and now to Jesus' message. What can make us spiritually dull and slow to hear God's voice? Like the generation of Jesus' time, our age is marked by indifference and contempt, especially in regards to the things of heaven. Indifference dulls our ears to God's voice and to the good news of the gospel. Only the humble of heart can find joy and favor in God's sight. Is you life in tune with Jesus's message of hope and salvation? And do you know the joy of obedience to God word? 

"Lord Jesus, open my ears to hear the good news of your kingdom and set my heart free to love and serve you joyfully. May nothing keep me from following you wholeheartedly."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 11:11-15)

Nagsiling pa gid si Jesus, "Sa pagkamatuod, hasta karon wala pa gid sing may natawo sa kalibutan nga maglabaw pa kay Juan. Pero karon ang bisan sin-o nga labing kubos sa mga nagapasakop sa paghari sang Dios mas labaw pa kay Juan.

Halin sang pagwali ni Juan hasta karon, nagapamilit ang mga tawo nga masakop sila sa paghari sang Dios.

Kay sa wala pa mag-abot si Juan, ang tanan nga mga propeta kag ang Kasuguan nagatudlo na parte sa paghari sang Dios.

Kag kon patihon ninyo ang ila mga mensahi, si Juan amo si Elias nga gintagna nga magaabot.

Dapat intiendihon gid ninyo ining inyong nabatian.

*** 

Meditation:  

Who is the greatest in the kingdom of God? Jesus praised John the Baptist as the greatest person born. Who can top that as a compliment? But in the same breath Jesus says that the least in the kingdom of God is even greater than John! That sounds like a contradiction, right? Unless you understand that what Jesus was about to accomplish for our sake would supercede all that the prophets had done and foreseen. John is the last and greatest of the prophets of the old covenant. He fulfilled the essential task of all the prophets: to be fingers pointing to Christ, God's Annointed Son and Messiah. John proclaimed Jesus' mission at the Jordan River when he exclaimed, "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world" (John 1:29). John saw from a distance what Jesus would accomplish through his death on the cross – our redemption from bondage to sin and death and our adoption as sons and daughers of God and citizens of the kingdom of heaven. 

John the Baptist bridges the Old and New Testaments. He is the last of the Old Testament prophets who point the way to the Messiah. He is the first of the New Testament witnesses and martyrs. He is the herald who prepares the way for Jesus the Messiah. Jesus confirms that John has fulfilled the promise that Elijah would return to herald the coming of the Messiah (Malachi 4:5). Jesus declares that John is nothing less that the great herald whose privilege it was to announce the coming of the Messiah. Jesus equates the coming of his kingdom with violence. John himself suffered violence for announcing that the kingdom of God was near. He was thrown into prison and then beheaded. Since John's martyrdom to the present times the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence and persecution at the hands of violent men. The blood of the martyrs throughout the ages bear witness to this fact. The martyrs witness to the truth – the truth and love of Jesus Christ who shed his blood to redeem us from slavery to sin and Satan and the fear of death. The Lord Jesus gives us the power of his Holy Spirit to overcome fear with faith, despair with hope, and every form of hatred, violence, jealousy, and prejudice with love and charity towards all – even those who seek to destroy and kill. 

God may call some of us to be martyrs for our faith in Christ. But for most of us our call is to be dry martyrs who bear testimony to the joy of the gospel in the midst of daily challenges, contradictions, temptations and adversities which come our way as we follow the Lord Jesus. What attracts others to the gospel?  When they see Christians loving their enemies, being joyful in suffering, patient in adversity, pardoning injuries, and showing comfort and compassion to the hopeless and the helpless. Jesus tells us that we do not need to fear our adversaries. He will give us sufficient grace, strength, and wisdom to face any trial and to answer any challenge to our faith. Are you eager to witness to the joy and freedom of the gospel? 

"Lord Jesus,  by your cross you have redeemed the world. Fill me with joy and confidence and make me a bold witness of your saving truth that others may know the joy and freedom of the gospel."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 1:26-38)

Sang anom na ka bulan ang pagbusong ni Elisabet, ginsugo liwat sang Dios ang anghel nga si Gabriel nga magkadto sa Nazaret, nga isa sang mga banwa sa Galilea.

Ginpadala siya didto sa isa ka ulay nga babayi nga ang iya ngalan si Maria. Si Maria kalaslon na kay Jose, nga isa sang mga kaliwat ni Haring David.

Pag-abot sang anghel kay Maria, nagsiling siya, "Maria, magkalipay ka, kay ang Ginoo kaupod mo kag ginpakamaayo niya ikaw."

Pagkabati sini ni Maria naglibog gid ang iya ulo, kag ginhunahuna niya kon ano bala ang kahulugan sini.

Gani nagsiling ang anghel sa iya, "Maria indi ka magkahadlok. Dako nga dungog ang ginhatag sang Dios sa imo.

Magabusong ka kag magabata sang lalaki, kag ngalanan mo siya nga Jesus.

Mangin bantog siya kag kilalahon nga Anak sang Labing Mataas nga Dios. Ihatag sa iya sang Ginoong Dios ang ginharian sang iya katigulangan nga si David.

Magahari siya sa mga kaliwat ni Jacob hasta kon san-o; ang iya ginharian magapadayon sa wala sang katapusan."

Nagsiling si Maria sa anghel, "Paano bala ang pagkahimo sini, kay ulay pa ako?"

Nagsabat ang anghel, "Magaabot sa imo ang Espiritu Santo, kag magalikop sa imo ang gahom sang Labing Mataas nga Dios. Gani ang balaan nga bata nga matawo sa imo kilalahon nga Anak sang Dios.

Tan-awa bala ang imo paryente nga si Elisabet. Nagsiling ang iban nga indi na siya makabata kay tigulang na gid siya. Pero karon anom na ka bulan ang iya ginabusong, tungod kay sa Dios, ang tanan sarang mahimo."

Gani nagsiling si Maria, "Alagad lang ako sang Ginoo, kabay pa nga matuman sa akon ang imo ginsiling." Dayon naghalin ang anghel.

***

Meditation: 

Do you want to live a grace-filled life? The angel Gabriel salutes Mary as "full of grace".  To become the mother of the Savior, Mary was enriched by God with gifts to enable her to assume this awesome role. There is a venerable tradition among many Christians, dating back to the early church,  for honoring Mary as the spotless virgin who bore the Son of God in her womb. A number of early church fathers link Mary's obedience to this singular grace of God.  "Being obedient she became the cause of salvation for herself and for the whole human race"  (Irenaeus, 2nd century). "The knot of Eve's disobedience was united by Mary's obedience: what the virgin Eve bound through her disbelief, Mary loosened by her faith" (Ireneaus, 2nd century). 

What is the key that can unlock the power and grace of God’s kingdom in our personal lives? Faith and obedience for sure! When Adam and Eve disobeyed God, they immediately experienced the consequence of their action – separation from the God who loved them. God in his mercy promised them a Redeemer who would pay the price for their sin and the sin of the world. We see the marvelous unfolding of God's plan of redemption in the events leading up to the Incarnation, the birth of the Messiah. Mary's prompt response of "yes" to the divine message is a model of faith for all believers. Mary believed God's promises even when they seemed impossible. She was full of grace because she trusted that what God said was true and would be fulfilled. She was willing and eager to do God's will, even if it seemed difficult or costly. God gives us grace and he expects us to respond with the same willingness, obedience, and heart-felt trust as Mary did. When God commands he also gives the grace, strength, and means to respond. We can either yield to his grace or resist and go our own way. Do you believe in God's promises and do you yield to his grace? 

"Heavenly Father, you offer us abundant grace, mercy, and forgiveness through your Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ. Help me to live a grace-filled life as Mary did by believing in your promises and by giving you my unqualified "yes" to your will and to your plan for my life."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 18:12-14)

"Kon ang isa ka tawo may 100 ka mga karnero kag nadula ang isa, ano bala ang iya himuon? Sigurado gid nga bayaan niya ang 99 nga nagapanghalab sa mga bakulod kag pangitaon niya ang karnero nga nadula.

Kag kon iya ini makita malipay gid siya. Ang matuod, mas dako ang iya kalipay sa isa nga nadula nga iya nakita sang sa 99 nga wala nadula.

Amo man ina ang balatyagon sang inyo Amay sa langit. Indi gid niya luyag nga madula ang bisan isa lang ka gamay nga bata."

***

Meditation:  

Do you know what it's like to lose your bearings and to be hopelessly adrift in a sea of uncertainty? To be alone, lost, and disoriented without a sense of direction is one of the worst fears we can encounter. What we would give to have a guide who would show us the way to safety and security, the way to home and family. Scripture comforts us with the assurance that God will not rest until we find our way home to him. The scriptures use the image of a shepherd who cares for his sheep to describe what God is like. God promised that he would personally shepherd his people and lead them to safety (Isaiah 40:11). That is why God sent his only begotten son as the Messiah King who would not only restore peace and righteousness to the land, but who would also shepherd and care for his people with love and compassion. Jesus describes himself as the good shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep (John 10:11). 

What can we learn from the lesson of Jesus' parable about a lost sheep? This parable gives us a glimpse of the heart of a true shepherd, and the joy of a community reunited with its lost members. Shepherds not only had to watch over their sheep by day and by night; they also had to protect them from wolves and lions who preyed upon them, and from dangerous terrain and storms. Shepherds often had large flocks, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or thousands.  It was common to inspect and count the sheep at the end of the day. You can imagine the surprise and grief of the shepherd who discovers that one of his sheep is missing! Does he wait until the next day to go looking for it? Or does he ask a neighboring shepherd if he might have seen the stray sheep? No, he goes immediately in search of this lost sheep. Delay for even one night could mean disaster leading to death. Sheep by nature are very social creatures. An isolated sheep can quickly become bewildered, disoriented, and even neurotic. Easy prey for wolves and lions! 

The shepherd's grief and anxiety is turned to joy when he finds the lost sheep and restores it to the fold. The shepherd  searches until what he has lost is found. His persistence pays off. What was new in Jesus' teaching was the insistence that sinners must be sought out time and time again.  How easy to forget and be distracted with other matters while the lost become prey for devouring wolves of the soul. The Apostle Peter reminds us that the "devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking some one to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). God does not rejoice in the loss of anyone, but desires that we be saved and restored to friendship with him. That is why the whole community of heaven rejoices when one sinner is found and restored to fellowship with God. God is on a rescue mission today to save us from the destructive forces of sin and evil. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, watches over every step we take. Do you listen to his voice and heed his wise counsel? Do you follow the path he has set for you – a path that leads to life rather than death? 

"Lord Jesus, nothing escapes your watchful gaze and care. May I always walk in the light of your truth and never stray from your loving presence."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 5:17-26)

Isa ka adlaw sang si Jesus nagapanudlo, may mga Pariseo kag mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan nga nagapungko malapit sa iya. Ini nga mga tawo naghalin pa sa nagkalain-lain nga mga baryo sang Galilea kag Judea, kag pati sa Jerusalem. Yara kay Jesus ang gahom sang Ginoo sa pag-ayo sang mga masakiton.

May mga tawo nga nag-abot nga nagatuwang sang isa ka tawo nga paralitiko. Ginhimulatan nila nga dalhon siya kay Jesus sa sulod sang balay.

Pero tungod sa kadamuon sang mga tawo wala gid sila sing may maagihan pasulod. Gani nagsaka sila sa atop sang balay kag gin-guhaban nila ang atop. Pagkatapos, gintunton nila ang paralitiko nga yara sa higdaan sa atubangan ni Jesus.

Sang makita ni Jesus ang ila pagtuo, nagsiling siya sa paralitiko, "Ang imo mga sala ginpatawad na."

Ang mga Pariseo kag ang mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan naghunahuna sa ila kaugalingon, "Sin-o gid bala ang ini nga tawo nga nagahambal sing mga butang nga kontra sa Dios? Wala sang bisan sin-o nga makapatawad sang mga sala kundi ang Dios lang."

Nahibaluan ni Jesus ang ila ginahunahuna, gani nagsiling siya sa ila, "Ngaa bala nagahunahuna kamo sang subong sina?

Diin bala ang mas mahapos, ang magsiling 'Ginpatawad na ang imo mga sala,' ukon ang magsiling 'Magtindog ka kag maglakat'?

Karon pamatud-an ko sa inyo paagi sa pag-ayo sa sini nga paralitiko nga ako nga Anak sang Tawo may gahom diri sa duta sa pagpatawad sang mga sala." Dayon nagsiling siya sa paralitiko, "Magtindog ka, dalha ang imo hiligdaan kag magpauli!"

Sa gilayon nagbangon ang paralitiko sa atubangan nila. Dayon gindala niya ang iya hiligdaan kag nagpauli nga nagadayaw sa Dios.

Natingala gid ang tanan nga mga tawo didto. Gindayaw nila ang Dios nga may kahadlok. Siling nila, "Makatilingala nga mga butang ang aton nakita karon."

***

Meditation:

Is there anything in your life that keeps you from receiving the blessings of God's kingdom? The prophets fortold that when the Messiah came to usher in God's kingdom the blind would see, the deaf hear, and the lame walk (Isaiah 35:5-6). Jesus not only brought physical healing, but healing of mind, heart, and soul as well. Jesus came to bring us the abundant life of God's kingdom (John 10:10). But that new life and transformation can be stifled by unbelief, indifference, and sinful pride. Sin cripples us far more than any physical ailment can. Sin is the work of the kingdom of darkness and it holds us in eternal bondage. There is only one solution and that is the healing, cleansing power of Jesus' forgiveness. 

Jesus' treatment of sinners upset the religious teachers of the day. When a cripple was brought to Jesus because of the faith of his friends, Jesus did the unthinkable. He first forgave the man his sins. The scribes regarded this as blasphemy because they understood that only God had authority to forgive sins and to unbind a man or woman from their burden of guilt. Jesus claimed an authority which only God could rightfully give. Jesus not only proved that his authority came from God, he showed the great power of God's redeeming love and mercy by healing the cripple of his physical ailment. This man had been crippled not only physically, but spiritually as well. Jesus freed him from his burden of guilt and restored his body as well. The Lord is ever ready to bring us healing of body, mind, and soul. His grace brings us freedom from the power of sin and from bondage to harmful desires and addictions. Do you allow anything to keep you from Jesus' healing power?

"Lord Jesus, through your merciful love and forgiveness you bring healing and restoration to body, soul, and mind. May your healing power and love touch every area of my life – my innermost thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and memories. Pardon my offences and transform me in the power of your Holy Spirit that I may walk confidently in your truth and righteousness."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 3:1-12)

Karon, nag-abot ang tion nga si Juan nga manugbautiso nagkadto sa kamingawan didto sa Judea, kag nagsugod siya sa pagwali sa mga tawo. Nagsiling siya, "Maghinulsol kamo kag bayai na ninyo ang inyo mga sala, kay ang paghari sang Dios malapit na!"

Si Juan amo ang ginhambal ni propeta Isaias sang nagsiling siya, "May magawali sing mabaskog sa kamingawan. Magasiling siya sa mga tawo, 'Ipreparar ninyo ang alagyan para sa Ginoo, tadlunga ang dalan nga iya pagaagihan.' "

Ang bayo ni Juan nahimo halin sa bulbol sang kamelyo kag ang iya paha panit. Ang iya pagkaon apan kag dugos.

Madamo gid nga mga tawo halin sa Jerusalem kag sa mga banwa sang Judea kag sa mga banwa nga malapit sa Suba sang Jordan ang nagkadto sa iya.

Gintuad nila ang ila mga sala kag ginbautisohan sila ni Juan sa Suba sang Jordan.

Nakita ni Juan nga madamo nga mga Pariseo kag mga Saduceo ang nagkadto sa pagpabautiso. Nagsiling siya sa ila, "Kamo nga mga kaliwat sang mga man-og! Sin-o ang nagsiling sa inyo nga makapalagyo kamo sa silot sang Dios nga madali na lang mag-abot?

Kon matuod nga naghinulsol na kamo sa inyo mga sala, pamatud-i ninyo ini sa inyo mga binuhatan.

Indi kamo magsiling nga indi kamo pagsilutan tungod kay kamo mga kaliwat ni Abraham. Kay bisan ang mga bato nga ini sarang mahimo sang Dios nga mga anak ni Abraham.

Tandai ninyo ini: ang wasay handa na sa pagtapas sa puno sang mga kahoy. Ang tagsa ka kahoy nga wala nagapamunga sang maayo nga bunga pagatapson kag ihaboy sa kalayo.

"Ako nagabautiso sa inyo sa tubig sa pagpakilala nga nagahinulsol na kamo sa inyo mga sala, pero ang masunod sa akon mas gamhanan pa sang sa akon kag indi gani ako takos nga mangin iya suluguon. Siya magabautiso sa inyo sa Espiritu Santo kag sa kalayo.

Pareho siya sa tawo nga nagapahangin sang iya inani agod painon ang tinggas sa upa. Ang tinggas ibutang niya sa bodega, pero ang upa sunugon niya sa kalayo nga indi gid mapatay." suluguon: sa literal, indi gani ako takos nga magbitbit sang iya sandalyas.

***

Meditation: 

What kind of Messiah did God promise to send to his people and how would he bring God's kingdom to them? The prophet Isaiah forsaw the day when God would raise up a Messianic King long after King David’s throne had been overthrown and vacant for centuries. God promised that he would raise up a new king from the stump of Jesse, the father of David (Isaiah 11:1). This messianic king would rule forever because the Spirit of God would rest upon him and remain with him (Isaiah 11:2). Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would be equipped with the gifts of the Spirit – with wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and fear of the Lord (Isaiah 11:2 – for an explanation of the gifts see this helpful article). This king would establish the kingdom of God, not by force of human will and military power, but by offering his life as the atoning sacrifice for the sin of the world. Through his death on the cross, Jesus, the true Messiah King, would defeat Satan, overcome death, and win pardon and reconcilliation for sinners. God's plan of redemption included not only the Jewish people but all the nations of the earth as well. Through his death and resurrection Jesus makes us citizens of heaven and friends of God. The Lord Jesus wants us to live in joyful hope and confident expectation that he will come again to fully establish his kingdom of righteousness and peace.

Why did John the Baptist prophesy that when the Messiah would come, he would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire (Matthew 3:11)? Fire in biblical times was often associated with God's presence and with his action in the lives of his people. God sometimes manifested his presence by use of fire, such as the burning bush which was not consumed when God spoke to Moses (Exodus 3:2). The image of fire was also used to symbolize God's glory (Ezekiel 1:4, 13), his protective presence (2 Kings 6:17), his holiness (Deuteronomy 4:24), righteous judgment (Zechariah 13:9), and his wrath against sin (Isaiah 66:15-16).Fire was also used as a sign of the Holy Spirit's power and presence (Matthew 3:11). When the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Petecost, tongues of fire appeared over the heads of the apostles and disciples of Jesus (Acts 2:3). The fire of the Holy Spirit purifies and cleanses us of sin, and it inspires a reverent fear of God and of his word in us. Do you want to be on fire for God and for the return of the Lord Jesus when he comes again in his glory?

John the Baptist's life was fueled by one burning passion – to point others to Jesus Christ and to the coming of his kingdom. Who is John the Baptist and what is the significance of his message for our lives? Scripture tells us that John was filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother's womb (Luke 1:15, 41) by Christ himself, whom Mary had just conceived by the Holy Spirit. When Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth John lept in her womb as they were filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:41). The fire of the Spirit dwelt in John and made him the forerunner of the coming Messiah. John was led by the Spirit into the wilderness prior to his ministry where he was tested and grew in the word of God. John's clothing was reminiscent of the prophet Elijah (see Kings 1:8). John broke the prophetic silence of the previous centuries when he began to speak the word of God to the people of Israel. His message was similar to the message of the Old Testament prophets who chided the people of God for their unfaithfuless and who tried to awaken true repentance in them. Among a people unconcerned with the things of God, it was his work to awaken their interest, unsettle them from their complacency, and arouse in them enough good will to recognize and receive Christ when he came. Are you eager to hear God's word and to be changed by it through the power of the Holy Spirit?

Jesus tells us that John the Baptist was more than a prophet (Luke 7:26). John was the voice of the Consoler who is coming (John 1:23; Isaiah 40:1-3). He completed the cycle of prophets begun by Elijah (Matthew 11:13-14). What the prophets had carefully searched for and angels longed to see, now came to completion as John made the way ready for the coming of the Messiah, God's Annointed Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. With John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit begins the restoration to the human race of the "divine likeness", prefiguring what would be achieved with and in the Lord Jesus. John's baptism was for repentance – turning away from sin and taking on a new way of life according to God's word. Our baptism in Jesus Christ by water and the Spirit results in a new birth and entry into God's kingdom as his beloved sons and daughters (John 3:5). Jesus is ready to give us the fire of his Spirit that we may radiate the joy and truth of the gospel to a world in desparate need of God's light and truth. His word has power to change and transform our lives that we may be lights pointing others to Christ. Like John the Baptist, we too are called to give testimony to the light and truth of Jesus Christ. Do you point others to Christ in the way you live, work, and speak?

"Lord, let your light burn brightly in my heart that I may know the joy and freedom of your kingdom. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and empower me to witness the truth of your gospel and to point others to Jesus Christ."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 9:35-10:1.6-8)

Naglibot si Jesus sa mga banwa kag mga baryo, kag nagpanudlo siya sa mga simbahan sang mga Judio. Ginwali niya ang Maayong Balita parte sa paghari sang Dios, kag ginpang-ayo niya ang mga tawo nga may nagkalain-lain nga mga balatian.

Pagkakita niya sa madamo nga mga tawo, naluoy gid siya sa ila tungod nga madamo ang ila mga palaligban pero wala sing may nagabulig sa ila. Kaangay sila sang mga karnero nga wala sing manugbantay.

Gani nagsiling siya sa iya mga sumulunod, "Malapad ang alanihon, pero diutay gid lang ang manug-ani.

Gani magpangamuyo kamo sa Ginoo nga magpadala siya sang mga manug-ani sa iya alanihon." mga tawo nga naaman sa pagbaton sang Maayong Balita. Kaangay sila sang alanihon nga husto na gid anihon.

Gintawag ni Jesus ang iya dose ka mga sumulunod kag ginhatagan niya sila sing gahom sa pagtabog sang malaot nga mga espiritu. Ginhatagan man niya sila sang gahom sa pag-ayo sang bisan ano nga klase sang balatian.

Kundi kadtui ninyo ang mga kaliwat ni Israel. Kaangay sila sang mga karnero nga nagtalang.

Ibantala ninyo sa ila nga tion na ini nga ang Dios magahari sa mga tawo.

Ayuha ninyo ang mga masakiton, banhawa ninyo ang mga patay, ayuha ninyo ang mga aruon, kag tabuga ninyo ang malaot nga mga espiritu. Nakabaton kamo sa Dios nga wala sing bayad, gani maghatag man kamo nga wala sing bayad.

***

Meditation:  

Who doesn't want a life of good health, peace, and well-being? Isaiah foretold that God's kingdom would overcome sorrow and adversity and bring true peace and prosperity to God's people. Jesus understood his mission to bring the kingdom in all its fulness to us. The core of the gospel message is quite simple: the kingdom or reign of God is imminent! What is the kingdom of God?  It's the power of God at work in that society of men and women who trust in God and who honor him as their King and Lord.  In the Lord's prayer we dare to ask God to reign fully in our lives and in our world: "May your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 5:10 ). Jesus' preaching of God's kingdom was accompanied by signs and wonders. People were healed not only spiritually, but physically as well. Do you believe in the power of God's kingdom for your life? Let his word transform your mind and heart that he may reign supreme in every area of your life. 

 Jesus commissioned his disciples to carry on the works which he did – to speak God's word and to bring his healing power to the weary and oppressed. Jesus said to his disciples: Freely you have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8). What they had received from Jesus (all free of charge) they must now pass on to others without expecting any kind of payment or reward. They must show by their attitude that their first interest is God, not material gain. Jesus' words are just as relevant today. The kingdom of heaven is available to those who are ready to receive it. We cannot buy heaven; but if we accept the love and mercy of Jesus we already possess heaven in our hearts! The Lord brings his kingdom or heavenly reign to those who receive him with faith and obedience. When the Lord returns in his glory he will fully restore his kingdom of everlasting peace and justice. Do you pray and watch with confident hope for God's kingdom to come in all its fullness? 

"Lord Jesus, rouse my spirit from complacency and stir my faith to see you act today. Give me boldness to live and proclaim the message of the kingdom of heaven and to be a prophetic sign of that kingdom to this generation."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 9:27-31)

Paghalin ni Jesus sa sadto nga lugar, may duha ka bulag nga nagsunod sa iya nga nagasinggit, "Kaliwat ni David, kaluoyi kami!"

Sang pag-abot ni Jesus sa balay nga iya ginadayunan, nagpalapit sa iya yadtong duha ka bulag. Ginpamangkot niya sila, "Nagatuo bala kamo nga sarang ko kamo maayo?" Nagsabat sila, "Huo, nagatuo kami."

Gintandog dayon ni Jesus ang ila mga mata kag nagsiling, "Suno sa inyo pagtuo pagahimuon ina sa inyo."

Sa gilayon nag-ayo ang ila mga mata kag nakakita na sila. Ginpaandaman sila ni Jesus nga indi gid sila magpanugid bisan kay sin-o.

Pero naglakat sila kag ginpanugid nila sa bug-os nga lugar kon ano ang ginhimo ni Jesus sa ila.

***

Meditation: 

Are there any blind-spots in your life that keep you from recognizing God's power and mercy? When two blind men heard that Jesus was passing their way, they followed him and begged for his mercy. The word mercy literally means "sorrowful at heart". But mercy is something more than compassion, or heartfelt sorrow at another's misfortune. Compassion empathizes with the sufferer. But mercy goes further; it removes suffering. A merciful person shares in another's misfortune and suffering as if it were their own. When two blind men approached Jesus, he questioned their earnestness. "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" Jesus put them to the test, not to rebuff them, but to strengthen their faith and trust in God's mercy. He touched their eyes, both to identify with their affliction and to awaken faith in them. Their faith grew as they responded to his word with confident hope. Jesus restored their sight – both physically and spiritually to the reality of God's kingdom. Faith opens the way for us to see the power of God’s kingdom and to experience his healing presence in our lives. 

In Jesus we see the fulness of God's mercy and the power of his kingdom – power to save from death and destruction, to forgive sins and lift the burden of guilt, and to heal infirmities and release the oppressed. Jesus never refused to bring God's mercy to those who earnestly sought it. How can we seek and obtain God's mercy? God gives mercy to the lowly in heart – to those who recognize their need for God and for his forgiveness and healing power. 

God wants to change and transform our lives to set us free to live as his sons and daughters and citizens of his kingdom. Faith is key to this transformation. How can we grow in faith? Faith is a gift freely given by God to help us know God personally, to understand his truth, and to live in the power of his love. For faith to be effective it must be linked with trust and obedience – an active submission to God and a willingness to do whatever he commands. The Lord Jesus wants us to live in the confident expectation that he will fulfill his promises to us and bring us into the fulness of his kingdom – a kingdom of  righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Do you know the peace and joy of God's kingdom? 

"Lord Jesus, help me to draw near to you with faith and trust in your saving power and mercy. Free me from doubt and unbelief that I may approach you confidently and pray boldly with expectant faith. Let your kingdom come and may your will be done in me."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 7:21.24-27)

"Madamo nga mga tawo ang nagatawag sa akon nga, 'Ginoo,' pero wala nagakahulugan nga makasakop sila sa paghari sang Dios. Ang mga tawo lamang nga nagatuman sang kabubut-on sang akon Amay sa langit amo ang makasakop sa iya paghari.

"Gani ang bisan sin-o nga nagapamati kag nagatuman sang akon mga pagpanudlo, kaangay siya sa tawo nga maalam nga nagpatindog sang iya balay sa pundasyon nga bato.

Kag bisan mag-ulan sing tudo kag magbaha, kag magwas-was ang mabaskog nga hangin sa balay, indi ini maguba tungod nga ginpatindog ini sa mapag-on nga pundasyon.

Pero ang tawo nga nakabati sang akon mga pagpanudlo, ugaling wala nagatuman, pareho siya sa tawo nga buang-buang nga nagpatindog sang iya balay sa balas.

Kag kon mag-ulan sing tudo kag magbaha, kag magwas-was ang mabaskog nga hangin sa balay, matumba ang iya balay, kag magarinagamak hasta mawasak."

***

Meditation:  

What’s the best security against disaster and destruction? In the ancient world a strong city, an impregnable fortress, and a secure house were built on solid rock because they could withstand the forces of nature and foe alike. Isaiah speaks of God as an “everlasting rock” (Isaiah 26:4). He is the rock of refuge and deliverance (Psalm 18:2) and the rock in whom there is no wrong (Psalm 92:15). Scripture warns that destruction will surely come to those who place their security in something other than God and his kingdom. Jesus’ parables invite us to stake our lives on the coming of his kingdom or face the consequences of being unprepared when the day of testing and destruction will surely come. 

When Jesus told the story of the builders he likely had the following proverb in mind: "When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm for ever" (Proverbs 10:25). What's the significance of the story for us? The kind of foundation we build our lives upon will determine whether we can survive the storms that are sure to come. Builders usually lay their foundations when the weather and soil conditions are at their best. It takes foresight to know how a foundation will stand up against adverse conditions. Building a house on a flood plain, such as a dry river-bed, is a sure bet for disaster! Jesus prefaced his story with a warning: We may fool humans with our speech, but God cannot be deceived. He sees the heart as it truly is – with its motives, intentions, desires, and choices (Psalm 139:2). 

There is only one way in which a person's sincerity can be proved, and that is by one's practice.  Fine words can never replace good deeds. Our character is revealed in the choices we make, especially when we are tested. Do you cheat on an exam or on your income taxes, especially when it will cost you?  Do you lie, or cover-up, when disclosing the truth will cause you  injury or embarrassment? A true person is honest and reliable before God, one's neighbor and oneself.  His or her word can be counted on. If you heed God's word and live according to it then you need not fear when storms assail you. God will be your rock and your refuge. Is your life built upon the sure "rock" of Jesus Christ and do you listen to his word as if your life depended on it? 

"Lord Jesus, your are my Rock and my Refuge. Help me to conform my life according to your word that I may stand firm in times of trouble and find hope in your promises."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 15:29-37)

Naghalin didto si Jesus kag naglakat sa higad sang Linaw sang Galilea. Sang ulihi nagtaklad siya sa bukid kag nagpungko didto.

Madamo nga mga tawo ang nagpalapit sa iya. Gindala nila ang mga piang, ang mga pingkaw, ang mga bulag, ang mga apa kag madamo pa gid nga mga masakiton. Ginpamutang sila sa tiilan ni Jesus kag ginpang-ayo niya sila tanan.

Natingala gid ang mga tawo kay nakita nila nga ang mga apa makahambal na, maayo na ang kamot sang mga pingkaw, ang mga piang makalakat na kag ang mga bulag makakita na. Kag gindayaw nila ang Dios sang Israel.

Gintawag ni Jesus ang iya mga sumulunod kag nagsiling sa ila, "Naluoy gid ako sa sina nga mga tawo. Tatlo na ka adlaw nga nagaupod-upod sila sa akon kag wala na sila sing kalan-on. Indi ko gusto nga magpauli sila nga wala kakaon kay basi kon malipong sila sa dalan."

Nagsiling ang iya mga sumulunod sa iya. "Diin bala kita makakuha sang pagkaon para sa sining madamo nga mga tawo diri sa kamingawan?"

Nagpamangkot si Jesus sa ila, "Pila ka bilog ang inyo tinapay dira?" Nagsabat sila, "Pito ka tinapay kag pila lang ka isda nga magagmay."

Dayon ginpapungko ni Jesus ang mga tawo.

Ginkuha niya ang pito ka tinapay kag ang mga isda kag nagpasalamat sa Dios. Pagkatapos, ginpamihak-pihak niya ini kag ginhatag sa iya mga sumulunod. Kag sila amo ang nagpanagtag sa mga tawo.

Nakakaon sila tanan kag nagkalabusog. Pagkatapos, gintipon nila ang tinapay nga sobra, kag napuno ang pito ka alat.

***

Meditation:  

What can satisfy the deepest hunger and longing of the human heart? Isaiah prophesied that God would provide a heavenly banquet for all peoples and would destroy death once and for all (Isaiah 2:6-8).  Jesus came to fulfill that promise. Jesus' miracles are both a sign of God’s kingdom and a demonstration of God’s power. They also show the magnitude of God’s mercy. 

When the disciples were confronted by Jesus with the task of feeding four thousand people many miles away from any source of food, they exclaimed: Where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them? The Israelites were confronted with the same dilemma when they fled Egypt and found themselves in a barren wilderness. Like the miraculous provision of manna in the wilderness, Jesus, himself provides bread in abundance for the hungry crowd who came out into the desert to seek him. The gospel records that all were satisfied and they took up what was leftover. 

In the multiplication of the loaves and fishes we see a sign and a symbol of what God always does. God knows our needs and he cares. When God gives, he gives in abundance. The gospel account records that the leftovers from the miraculous meal was more than seven times the amount they began with. Seven is a symbol of completion and wholeness. When God gives, he gives until we are satisfied. When God works for his people he gives abundantly – more than we could deserve and more than we need. He nourishes us with his life-giving word and with the bread of heaven. In the kingdom of heaven God will feast us at his banquet table. Are you satisfied with God's provision for you? And do you long with expectant hope for the coming of his kingdom in all its fulness? 

Lord, you alone can satisfy the longing and hunger in our hearts. May I thirst for your kingdom and find joy in your presence. Give me the true bread of heaven and nourish me with your life-giving word."