Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 19:1-10)

Nagsulod si Jesus sa Jerico kay maagi siya didto.

May isa ka tawo didto nga manggaranon nga ang iya ngalan si Zaqueo. Siya amo ang pangulo sang mga manugsukot sang buhis.

Gusto gid niya nga makita kon sin-o gid si Jesus. Pero putot si Zaqueo kag tungod sa kadamuon sang mga tawo indi siya makakita kay Jesus.

Gani nagdalagan siya sa unhan kag nagsaka sa kahoy nga sikomoro agod makita niya si Jesus, kay didto gid siya dampi maagi.

Pag-abot ni Jesus didto nagtangla siya kag nagsiling, "Zaqueo, dali-dali ka nga magpanaog, kay karon nga adlaw kinahanglan didto ako madayon sa imo balay."

Gani dali-dali nga nagpanaog si Zaqueo, kag ginbaton niya si Jesus sing malipayon gid.

Sang makita sang mga tawo nga didto nagadayon si Jesus sa balay ni Zaqueo, nagkumod sila nga nagasiling, "Ngaa dira gid siya nagadayon sa balay sinang tawo nga makasasala?"

Didto sa iya balay nagtindog si Zaqueo kag nagsiling, "Ginoo, ipanagtag ko sa mga imol ang katunga sang akon pagkabutang. Kag kon may gindayaan ako, ibalik ko sa iya ang apat ka pilo."

Nagsiling si Jesus sa iya, "Karon ginluwas ini nga pamilya, tungod nga kaliwat man siya ni Abraham.

Kay ako nga Anak sang Tawo nagkadto diri sa kalibutan sa pagpangita kag sa pagluwas sang tanan nga nagtalang."

***

Meditation:  

What would you do if Jesus knocked on your door and said, "I must stay at your house today"? Would you be excited or embarrassed? Jesus often "dropped-in" at unexpected times and he often visited the "uninvited" — the poor, the lame, and even public sinners like Zacchaeus, the tax collector! Tax collectors were despised and treated as outcasts, no doubt because they over-charged people and accumulated great wealth at the expense of others. Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector and was much hated by all the people. Why would Jesus single him out for the honor of staying at his home?  Zacchaeus needed God's merciful love and in his encounter with Jesus he found more than he imagined possible. He shows the depth of his repentance by deciding to give half of his goods to the poor and to use the other half for making restitution for fraud. Zacchaeus' testimony included more than words. His change of heart resulted in a change of life, a change that the whole community could experience as genuine. The Lord is always ready to make his home with us.  Do you make room for him in your heart, your home, and in every area of your life? 

"Lord, come and stay with me.  Fill my home with your presence and fill my heart with your praise.  Help me to show kindness and mercy to all, even to those who cause me harm."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 14:1,7-11)

Isa sadto ka Adlaw nga Inugpahuway, gin-imbitar si Jesus sang isa ka manugdumala sang mga Pariseo nga magkaon sa iya balay. Pag-abot ni Jesus didto, ginbantayan siya sang mga tawo nga nagakontra sa iya kon bala lapason niya ang Kasuguan.

Napanilagan ni Jesus nga ang mga tawo nga ginpang-imbitar nagapili sang mga pulungkuan nga para sa dungganon nga mga tawo. Gani ginlaygayan niya sila,

"Kon imbitaron ka sa punsyon sang kasal, indi mo pagpilion ang pulungkuan nga para sa dungganon nga mga tawo. Kay basi may gin-imbitar nga mas dungganon pa gid sang sa imo.

Kag ang nag-imbitar sa inyo nga duha magapalapit sa imo kag magsiling, 'Abi halin ka anay dira, kay napreparar na ini nga pulungkuan sa sini nga tawo.' Ti mahuy-an ka kag mapungko ka na lang sa pulungkuan nga para sa ordinaryo nga mga tawo.

Pero kon imbitaron ka, pilion mo ang pulungkuan nga para sa ordinaryo nga mga tawo, agod sa pag-abot sang nag-imbitar sa imo palapitan ka niya kag papungkuon sa pulungkuan nga para sa dungganon nga mga tawo. Kundi mapadunggan ka pa sa atubangan sang tanan nga ginpang-imbitar.

Kay ang bisan sin-o nga nagapataas sang iya kaugalingon paubuson, kag ang nagapaubos sang iya kaugalingon pataason."

***

Meditation:  

Who wants to be last? Isn't it only natural to desire respect and esteem from others? Jesus' parable of the guests invited to the marriage feast probes our motives for seeking honor and position. Self-promotion is most often achieved at the expense of others! Jesus' parable reinforces the teaching of Proverbs: Do not put yourself forward in the king's presence or stand in the place of the great; for it is better to be told, "Come up here," than to be put lower in the presence of the prince (Proverbs 25:6-7).

What is true humility and why should we make it a characteristic mark of our life and action? True humility is not feeling bad about yourself, or having a low opinion of yourself, or thinking of yourself as inferior to others. True humility frees us from preoccupation with ourselves, whereas a low self-opinion tends to focus our attention on ourselves. Humility is truth in self-understanding and truth in action. Viewing ourselves truthfully, with sober judgment, means seeing ourselves the way God sees us (Psalm 139:1-4). A humble person makes a realistic assessment of himself or herself without illusion or pretense to be something he or she is not. The humble regard themselves neither smaller nor larger than they truly are. True humility frees us to be our true selves and to avoid despair and pride. A humble person does not have to wear a mask or put on a facade in order to look good to others, especially to those who are not really familiar with that person. The humble are not swayed by accidentals, such as fame, reputation, success, or failure. 

Humility is the queen or foundation of all the other virtues because it enables us to view and judge ourselves correctly, the way God sees us. Humility leads to true self-knowledge, honesty, realism, strength, and dedication to give ourselves to something greater than ourselves. Humility frees us to love and serve others selflessly, for their sake, rather than our own. Paul the Apostles, gives us the  greatest example and model of humility in the person of Jesus Christ, who emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, ...who humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:7-8). The Lord Jesus gives grace to those who seek him humbly. Do you want to be a servant as Jesus served? 

"Lord Jesus, you became a servant for my sake to set me free from the tyranny of sin, selfishness, and conceit. Help me to be humble as you are humble and to love freely and graciously all whom you call me to serve."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 14:1-6)

Isa sadto ka Adlaw nga Inugpahuway, gin-imbitar si Jesus sang isa ka manugdumala sang mga Pariseo nga magkaon sa iya balay. Pag-abot ni Jesus didto, ginbantayan siya sang mga tawo nga nagakontra sa iya kon bala lapason niya ang Kasuguan.

Karon, may tawo didto nga nagapalamanog ang bug-os niya nga lawas.

Nagpamangkot si Jesus sa mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan kag sa mga Pariseo, "Ginatugot bala sang aton Kasuguan nga magpang-ayo sang mga masakiton sa Adlaw nga Inugpahuway ukon wala?"

Pero naghipos lang sila. Dayon ginkaptan ni Jesus ang tawo kag gin-ayo. Pagkatapos ginpalakat niya.

Kag nagsiling siya sa mga tawo didto, "Abi kon kamo may bata ukon baka nga mahulog sa bubon sa Adlaw nga Inugpahuway, pabay-an lang bala ninyo kay Adlaw nga Inugpahuway?"

Pero wala gid sing may nakasabat sa iya pamangkot.

***

Meditation: 

How do you approach the commandment to observe the sabbath as a day of rest? The Pharisees were convinced that Jesus was a reckless Sabbath-breaker. The gospels record seven incidents in which Jesus healed on the Sabbath – the seventh day of the week set apart for rest and worship. You would think Jesus' miracles on the Sabbath would draw admiration and gratitude from all. Unfortunately, each incident seemed to incite increasing hostility from the religious leaders who held an interpretation that went beyond God's intention for the Sabbath rest. They were certain that Jesus was a dangerous and irreligious man, a Sabbath-breaker, who must be stopped at all costs! Why did the Pharisees invite Jesus to dinner on the Sabbath, after he had already repeatedly broken their Sabbath regulations? 

Luke, a physican and keen observer of the human condition, notes the disposition of the Pharisees as they bring Jesus into their table fellowship. Body language often communicates more truthfully than words. Luke says the scribes and Pharisees were watching Jesus, no doubt with great suspicion. They wanted to catch Jesus in the act of breaking the Sabbath ritual so they might accuse him of breaking God's law and find some way to discredit him. Jesus' attention and affection quickly turned to a person who had a physical ailment called dropsy. How did such a pitiable person get into this dinner party? In the hot arid climate of Palestine, homes were open and people freely dropped in without much fuss or attention. For the religious minded it was considered uncharitable to exclude beggars. And if a rabbi came to dinner, it would be expected for him to speak a few words. So, famous rabbis obviously drew crowds of bystanders wherever they went. 

Jesus already knew that his hosts wanted to catch him in the act of breaking their Sabbath rituals. So when Jesus gave his defense for healing on the Sabbath, they treated him with cold silence. They were ensnared in their own legalism and could not understand or see the purpose of God in allowing a work of healing to take precedence over rest. Why did God give the commandment to keep holy the Sabbath and enjoined his people to refrain from work on that day? The "Sabbath rest" was meant to be a time to remember and celebrate God's goodness and the goodness of his works, both in creation and redemption. It was a day set apart for the praise of God, his work of creation, and his saving actions on our behalf. It was intended to bring everyday work to a halt and to provide needed rest and refreshment. It was not, however, intended to put a stop to love of God and love of neighbor. The law of love supercedes the law of rest! Jesus shows the fallacy of the Pharisees' legalism by pointing to God's intention for the Sabbath: to do good and to heal. God's word has power to heal and to set us free from ignorance, error, intolerance, and prejudice. Do you honor the Lord's Day with appropriate rest and worship, and do you treat your neighbor with love and compassion at all times? 

"Lord Jesus, may I always honor you, both  in my work and in my rest, and in the way I treat my neighbor. Fill me with your love and keep me free from a critical and intolerant spirit that I may always seek the good of my neighbor in every situation."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 6:12-19)

Sa sadto nga panahon nagtaklad si Jesus sa bukid agod magpangamuyo. Kag nagpangamuyo siya didto sa sulod sang isa gid ka gab-i.

Pagkaaga gintawag niya ang iya mga sumulunod, kag nagpili siya sa ila sang dose, kag gintawag niya sila nga mga apostoles.

Ang ila mga ngalan amo si Simon (nga ginhingalanan ni Jesus nga Pedro), si Andres nga iya utod, si Santiago, si Juan, si Felipe, si Bartolome, si Mateo, si Tomas, si Santiago nga anak ni Alfeo, si Simon (nga sang una rebelde sa gobyerno sang Roma), si Judas nga anak sang isa pa ka Santiago, kag si Judas Iscariote nga amo ang nagluib kay Jesus.

Pagkatapos nga nakapili na siya sang iya mga apostoles, nagdulhog sila sa patag. Nagtilipon didto ang iya mga sumulunod kag ang madamo nga mga tawo nga halin sa mga banwa nga sakop sang Judea kag sa siyudad sang Jerusalem. May mga tawo man didto nga halin pa sa siyudad sang Tiro kag Sidon nga malapit sa dagat.

Nagkadto sila didto agod magpamati sa mga ginatudlo ni Jesus kag magpabulong sang ila mga masakit. Ang mga tawo nga ginapaantos sang malaot nga mga espiritu gin-ayo man niya.

Kag ang tanan nga mga tawo didto nagatinguha gid nga makatandog sa iya, kay may gahom nga nagaguwa sa iya nga nagaayo sa ila tanan.

***

Meditation:  

What is God's call on your life? When Jesus embarked on his mission he chose twelve men to be his friends and apostles. In the choice of the twelve, we see a characteristic feature of God's work: Jesus chose very ordinary people. They were non-professionals, who had no wealth or position. They were chosen from the common people who did ordinary things, had no special education, and no social advantages. Jesus wanted ordinary people who could take an assignment and do it extraordinarily well. He chose these men, not for what they were, but for what they would be capable of becoming under his direction and power. When the Lord calls us to serve, we must not shrug back because we think that we have little or nothing to offer. The Lord takes what ordinary people, like us, can offer and uses it for greatness in his kingdom. Is there anything holding you back from giving yourself unreservedly to God? 

Wherever Jesus went the people came to him because they had heard all the things he did. They were hungry for God and desired healing from their afflictions. In faith they pressed upon Jesus to touch him. As they did so power came from Jesus and they were healed. Even demons trembled in the presence of Jesus and left at his rebuke. Jesus offers freedom from the power of sin and oppression to all who seek him with expectant faith. When you hear God's word and consider all that Jesus did, how do you respond? With doubt or with expectant faith? With skepticism or with confident trust? Ask the Lord to increase your faith in his saving power and grace. 

"Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Son of God and the Savior of the world. Inflame my heart with a burning love for you and with an expectant faith in your saving power. Take my life and all that I have as an offering of love for you, who are my All."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 13:22-30)

Sang nagapakadto si Jesus sa Jerusalem, nagapanudlo siya sa mga baryo kag mga banwa nga iya ginaagihan.

Karon, may nagpamangkot sa iya, "Ginoo, diutay lang bala ang maluwas?" Nagsabat si Jesus paagi sa isa ka paanggid.

"Magtinguha gid kamo sa pagsulod sa makitid nga puwertahan. Kay ang matuod, madamo ang gusto nga magsulod, pero indi sila makasulod.

Kon nakapanirado na ang tagbalay magatindog gid lang kamo sa guwa kag magapanuktok nga nagasiling, 'Ginoo, pasudla kami.' Pero sabton niya kamo, 'Wala ako makakilala sa inyo.'

Dayon magasiling kamo, 'Indi bala nga nag-upod kita sa pagkaon, kag nagtudlo ka sa mga kalye sang amon banwa?'

Pero magasabat siya sa inyo, 'Wala gid ako makakilala sa inyo. Palayo kamo sa akon, tanan kamo nga nagahimo sang malain!'

Magahibi kamo kag magabagrot ang inyo mga ngipon kon makita ninyo si Abraham, Isaac, Jacob kag ang tanan nga mga propeta

Kag makita ninyo ang mga indi Judio nga naghalin sa tanan nga bahin sang kalibutan nga magapungko kag magakaon sa ginharian sang Dios.

May mga tawo nga kubos karon, pero sa ulihi mangin dungganon. Kag may mga dungganon karon, pero sa ulihi mangin kubos."

***

Meditation:  

What does the image of a door say to us about the kingdom of God? Jesus' story about the door being shut to those who come too late suggests they had offended their host and deserved to be excluded. It was customary for teachers in Jesus' time to close the door on tardy students and not allow them back for a whole week in order to teach them a lesson in discipline and faithfulness. Jesus told this story in response to the question of who will make it to heaven. Many rabbis held that all Israel would be saved, except for a few blatant sinners who excluded themselves! After all, they were specially chosen by God when he established a covenant with them. 

Jesus doesn't directly answer the question, however; but his response is nonetheless unsettling on two counts. First, Jesus surprised his listeners by saying that one's membership as a covenanted people does not automatically mean entry into the kingdom of God. Second, Jesus asserts that many from the gentile nations would enter God's kingdom. God's invitation is open to Jew and Gentile alike. But Jesus warns that we can be excluded if we do not strive to enter by the narrow door.  What did Jesus mean by this expression? The door which Jesus had in mind was himself. I am the door; if any one enters by me, he will be saved (John 10:9).  Jesus opens the way for us to enter into God's kingdom through the cross where he has laid down his life as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. If we want to enter and remain citizens of God's kingdom, then we must follow Jesus in the way of the cross. The word strive can also be translated agony. To enter the kingdom of God one must struggle against the forces of temptation to sin and whatever would hinder us from doing the will of God (even apathy, indifference, and compromise). 

The good news is that we do not struggle alone. God is with us and his grace is sufficient! As we strive side by side  for the faith of the gospel (Philippians 1:27) Jesus assures us of complete victory! Do you trust in God's grace and help, especially in times of testing and temptation? 

"Lord Jesus, help me to always trust in your saving grace, especially when I am tempted and put to the test. Help me to be faithful to you and give me the courage and strength to resist temptation, especially the temptation to compromise or to be indifferent to your word."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 13:18-21)

Nagpadayon pa gid si Jesus sa paghambal, "Sa ano ko bala ipaanggid ang paghari sang Dios?

Ang paghari sang Dios pareho sa binhi sang mustasa nga ginpanggas sang isa ka tawo sa iya hardin. Nagtubo ini kag nagdako nga daw sa kahoy ang iya kataason, kag ginpugaran sang mga pispis ang iya mga sanga."

Pagkatapos sadto naghambal liwat si Jesus parte sa paghari sang Dios. Siling niya, "Sa ano ko pa gid bala ipaanggid ang paghari sang Dios?

Pareho ini sa inugpahabok nga ginmiksla sang babayi sa isa ka labador nga harina nga iya masahon, kag naghabok dayon ang bug-os nga linamas."

***

Meditation: 

What can mustard seeds and leaven teach us about the kingdom of God? The tiny mustard seed literally grew to be a tree which attracted numerous birds because they loved the little black mustard seed it produced. God's kingdom works in a similar fashion. It starts from the smallest beginnings in the hearts of men and women who are receptive to God's word. And it works unseen and causes a transformation from within. Leaven is another powerful agent of change. A lump of dough left to itself remains just what it is, a lump of dough. But when the leaven is added to it a transformation takes place which produces rich and wholesome bread when heated – the staple of life for humans. The kingdom of God produces a transformation in those who receive the new life which Jesus Christ offers. When we yield to Jesus Christ, our lives are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. Paul the Apostle says, "we have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us" (2 Corinthians 4:7). Do you believe in the transforming power of the Holy Spirit? 

"Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit and transform me into the Christ-like holiness you desire. Increase my zeal for your kingdom and instill in me a holy desire to live for your greater glory."

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

Sang isa ka Adlaw nga Inugpahuway, nagkadto si Jesus sa simbahan sang mga Judio kag nagpanudlo.

May babayi didto nga nangin buktot tungod nga ginapamasakit siya sang malaot nga espiritu. Sa sulod sang 18 ka tuig indi gid siya makatadlong sang iya lawas.

Sang makita siya ni Jesus, gintawag niya siya kag ginsilingan, "Tyay, maayo ka na sa imo masakit."

Dayon gintungtong niya ang iya mga kamot sa babayi, kag sa gilayon nagtadlong ang iya likod kag nagdayaw siya sa Dios.

Pero naakig gid ang manugdumala sang simbahan, tungod kay nagpang-ayo si Jesus sa Adlaw nga Inugpahuway. Nagsiling siya sa mga tawo, "Sa isa ka semana may anom ka adlaw para mag-obra. Sa sina nga mga adlaw magkadto kamo diri sa pagpabulong, pero indi sa Adlaw nga Inugpahuway."

Nagsabat ang Ginoo sa iya, "Hipokrito kamo! Indi bala nga kon may baka kamo ukon kabayo, ginahubaran ninyo kag ginaguyod sa mga palaimnan bisan sa Adlaw nga Inugpahuway?

Kon ginahimo ninyo ina sa sapat, ngaa indi ko paghimuon ang maayo sa sini nga babayi nga isa man sang mga kaliwat ni Abraham? Gin-gapos siya ni Satanas sa sulod sang 18 ka tuig, gani dapat nga hilwayon siya sa gahom ni Satanas bisan sa Adlaw nga Inugpahuway."

Sa sabat nga ini ni Jesus nahuy-an ang mga nagakontra sa iya. Sa pihak nga bahin, nalipay gid ang mga tawo tungod sa makatilingala nga mga butang nga iya ginpanghimo.

***

Meditation: 

Is there anything that keeps you bound up or oppressed? Infirmity, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, can befall us for a variety of reasons and God can use it for some purpose that we do not understand. When Jesus encountered an elderly woman who was spent of her strength and unable to stand upright, he gave her words of faith and freedom and he restored her to health. She must have suffered much, both physically and spiritually for eighteen years, since Jesus remarked that Satan had bound her. How can Satan do this? The scriptures indicate that Satan can act in the world with malice and can cause injuries of a spiritual nature, and indirectly even of a physical nature. Satan's power, however, is not infinite. He cannot prevent the building up of God's kingdom or reign in our lives. Jesus demonstrates the power and authority of God's kingdom in releasing people who are oppressed by physical and emotional sickness, by personal weakness and sin, and by the harrassment of the evil one in their lives. It took only one word from Jesus to release this woman instantly of her infirmity. Do you believe in the power of Jesus to release you from affliction and oppression? 

The Jewish leaders were indignant that Jesus would perform such a miraculous work on the Sabbath, the holy day of rest. They were so caught up in their ritual observance of the Sabbath that they lost sight of God's mercy and goodness. Jesus healed on the Sabbath because God does not rest from showing his mercy and love, ever. God's word has power to change us, spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Is there anything that keeps you bound up or that weighs you down? Let the Lord speak his word to you and give you freedom.

"Lord Jesus, you grant freedom to those who seek you. Give me freedom to walk in your way of love and to praise and worship you always. Show me how I can bring your mercy and healing love to those in need around me."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 18:9-14)

May mga tawo didto nga nagasalig nga sila gid lang ang matarong kag nagatamay sila sa iban. Gani ginsugiran sila ni Jesus sining paanggid:

"May duha ka tawo nga nagkadto sa templo sa pagpangamuyo. Ang isa Pariseo kag ang isa manugsukot sang buhis.

Ang Pariseo nagtindog didto kag nagpangamuyo sa iya kaugalingon sing subong sini, 'Dios ko, nagapasalamat ako sa imo nga indi ako pareho sang iban nga mga tawo nga kawatan, dayaon, kag babahedor. Kag salamat nga indi man ako pareho sa sini nga manugsukot sang buhis.

Kaduha ako magpuasa kada semana, kag ginahatag ko ang ikanapulo sang tanan ko nga kinitaan.'

Ang manugsukot sang buhis nagtindog sa malayo kag indi gani siya magtangla sa langit, kundi ginapukpok niya ang iya dughan sa paghinulsol nga nagasiling, 'Dios ko, kaluoyi ako nga makasasala!'

Sa pagkamatuod, ining tawo nagpauli sa iya balay nga ginpakamatarong sang Dios sang sa isa. Kay ang bisan sin-o nga nagapakataas sang iya kaugalingon paubuson sang Dios, pero ang nagapaubos sang iya kaugalingon pagapataason."

***

Meditation:  

What kind of prayer is pleasing to God? Jesus told a vivid story of two people who went to the house of God to pray. Why did the Lord accept one person’s prayer and reject the other’s prayer? Luke gives us a hint: despising one’s neighbor closes the door to God’s heart. Contempt is more than being mean-minded. It springs from the assumption that one is qualified to sit in the seat of judgment and to ascertain who is good and just. Jesus' story caused offense for those who regarded "tax collectors" as unworthy of God's grace and favor. How could Jesus put down a "religious leader" and raise up a "public sinner"? Jesus' parable speaks about the nature of prayer and our relationship with God. It does this by contrasting two very different attitudes towards prayer. The Pharisee, who represented those who take pride in their religious practices, exalted himself at the expense of others. Absorbed with his own sense of self-satisfaction and self-congratulation he mainly prayed with himself. His prayer consisted of prideful boasts of what he did and of disdain for those he despised. The Pharisee tried to justify himself; but only God can justify. The tax collector, who represented those despised by religious people, humbled himself before God and begged for mercy.  His prayer was heard by God because he had remorse for his sins. He sought God with humility rather than with pride. 

This parable presents both an opportunity and a warning. Pride leads to illusion and self-deception. Humility helps us to see ourselves as we really are and it inclines us to God's grace and mercy. God dwells with the humble of heart who recognize their own sinfulness and who acknowledge God's mercy and saving grace. I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and humble spirit (Isaiah 57:15). God cannot hear us if we despise others. Do you humbly seek God's mercy and do you show mercy to others, especially those you find difficult to love and to forgive? 

"Lord, may your love direct all my thoughts and actions that I may do what is pleasing to you. Show me where I lack charity and forgiveness toward my neighbor and help me to be generous in giving to others what you have so generously given to me."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 13:1-9)

May mga tawo didto nga nagbalita kay Jesus parte sa mga taga-Galilea nga ginpapatay ni Pilato sang nagahalad sila sang mga sapat.

Nagsiling si Jesus sa mga nagbalita sa iya, "Siguro nagahunahuna kamo nga natabo yadto sa ila tungod nga mas makasasala sila sang sa iban nga mga taga-Galilea.

Pero indi! Pero sugiran ko kamo, kon indi kamo maghinulsol kag magtalikod sa inyo mga sala, kamo tanan mapatay man.

Ti, ano karon yadtong 18 ka mga tawo nga natumbahan sang tori sa Siloam kag nagkalamatay. Siguro nagahunahuna man kamo nga sila ang pinakamalaot sa tanan nga mga taga-Jerusalem.

Pero indi! Pero sugiran ko kamo, kon indi kamo maghinulsol kag magtalikod sa inyo mga sala, kamo tanan mapatay man."

Dayon ginsugiran sila ni Jesus sang isa ka paanggid, "May isa ka tawo nga may gintanom nga higera[a] sa iya talamnan. Ginkadtuan niya ini nga tanom kag gintan-aw kon bala may bunga, pero wala gid siya sing may nakita.

Gani ginhambalan niya ang nagaatipan sang iya talamnan, 'Tatlo na ka tuig ang akon pagbalik-balik diri nga nagatan-aw kon may bunga na ang higera, pero wala gid makapamunga. Maayo pa tapson mo na lang ina. Ginakuha lang niya ang abuno sang duta.'

Pero nagsiling ang manug-atipan, 'Sir, pabay-an ta lang anay sa sini nga tuig kay kutkutan ko ang iya palibot kag abunuhan.

Basi pa lang nga magpamunga sa madason nga tuig. Pero kon indi pa gid siya magpamunga amo na ina ang pagtapas ta.'"

***

Meditation:  

What can a calamity, such as a political blood-bath or a natural disaster, teach us about God's kingdom and the consequences of bad choices and sinful actions? Jesus used two such occasions to address the issue of sin and judgment with his Jewish audience. Pilate, who was the Roman governor of Jerusalem at the time, ordered his troops to slaughter a group of Galileans who had come up to Jerusalem to offer sacrifice in the Temple. We do not know what these Galileans did to incite Pilate's wrath, nor why Pilate chose to attack them in the holiest of places for the Jews, in their temple at Jerusalem. For the Jews, this was political barbarity and sacrilige at its worst! The second incident which Jesus addressed was a natural disaster, a tower in Jerusalem which unexpectely collasped, killing 18 people. The Jews often associated such calamities and disasters as a consequence of sin. Scripture does warn that sin can result in calamity! Though the righteous fall seven times, and rise again; the wicked are overthrown by calamity (Proverbs 24:16). 

The real danger and calamity which Jesus points out is that an unexpected disaster or a sudden death does not give us time to repent of our sins and to prepare ourselves to meet the Judge of heaven and earth. The Book of Job reminds us that misfortune and calamity can befall both the righteous and the unrighteous alike. Jesus gives a clear warning - take responsibility for your actions and moral choices and put sin to death today before it can destroy your heart, mind, soul, and body as well. Unrepentant sin is like a cancer which corrupts us from within. If it is not eliminated through repentance - asking God for forgiveness and for his healing grace, it leads to a spiritual death which is far worse than physical destruction. 

Jesus' parable of the barren fig trees illustrated his warning about the consequences of allowing sin and corruption to take root in our hearts and minds. Fig trees were a common and important source of food for the people of Palestine. A fig tree normally matured within three years, producing plentiful fruit. If it failed, it was cut down to make room for more healthy trees. A decaying fig tree and its bad fruit came to symbolize for the Jews the consequence of spiritual corruption caused by evil deeds and unrepentant sin. The unfruitful fig tree symbolized the outcome of Israel's unresponsiveness to the word of God. The prophets depicted the desolation and calamity of Israel, due to her unfaithfulness to God, as a languishing fig tree (see Joel 1:7,12; Habakuk 3:17; and Jeremiah 8:13). Jeremiah likened good and evil rulers and members of Israel with figs that were good for eating and figs that were rotten and useless (Jeremiah 24:2-8). Jesus' parable depicts the patience of God, but it also contains a warning that we should not presume upon patience and mercy. God's judgment will come – sooner or later – in due course. 

Why does God judge his people? He judges to purify and cleanse us of all sin that we might grow in his holiness and righteousness. And he disciplines us for our own good, to inspire a godly fear and reverence for him and his word. God is patient, but for those who persistently and stubbornly rebel against him and refuse to repent, there is the consequence that they will lose their soul to hell. Are God's judgments unjust or unloving? When God's judgments are revealed in the earth, the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness (Isaiah 26:9). To pronounce God's judgment on sin is much less harsh than what will happen if those who sin are not warned to repent. 

God, in his mercy, gives us time to get right with him, but that time is now. We must not assume that there is no hurry. A sudden and unexpected death leaves one no time to prepare to settle one's accounts when he or she must stand before the Lord on the day of judgment. Jesus warns us that we must be ready at all times. Tolerating sinful habits and excusing unrepentant sin will result in bad fruit and eventual destruction. The Lord in his mercy gives us both grace and time to turn away from sin, but that time is right now. If we delay, even for a day, we may discover that grace has passed us by and our time is up. Do you hunger for the Lord's righteousness and holiness? 

"Lord Jesus, increase my hunger for you that I may grow in righteousness and holiness. May I not squander the grace of the present moment to say "yes" to you and to your will and plan for my life."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 12:54-59)

Dayon nagsiling si Jesus sa mga tawo, "Kon makita ninyo ang gal-om sa nakatundan nagasiling kamo nga magaulan, kag amo gani ang matabo.

Kag kon maghuyop na ang habagat nagasiling kamo nga magainit, kag amo man ang matabo.

Mga hipokrito! Makahibalo kamo magpakot kon ano ang matabo paagi sa inyo pagtan-aw sa duta kag sa langit, pero ngaa indi kamo makapakot sang mga nagakalatabo karon?"

"Ngaa wala gid ninyo ginabinagbinag kon ano ang husto?

Kon may mag-akusar sa imo, tinguhai gid sa pagpakighusay samtang nagapakadto pa lang kamo sa korte. Kay basi piliton gid niya ikaw nga dalhon sa huwis kag itugyan ka dayon sang huwis sa pulis agod prisohon.

Kag indi ka gid makaguwa kon indi mo anay mabayaran ang tanan mo nga multa."

***

Meditation:

How good are you at reading warning signs? Jesus expects his disciples to accurately read the signs of the times! Farmers and seafarers know the importance of spotting weather conditions for safe travel and planting. A lot of effort is made today, with the help of science and technology, to discern potential natural dangers, such as tropical storms, hurricanes, floods, tornados, earth quakes, and erupting volcanoes, so that people can be warned to take shelter before disaster hits. Our need for accurately discerning spiritual danger is even more necessary if we want to avoid a spiritual crisis or a moral disaster. Jesus used a vivid illustration to point out the urgency of getting right with God before it is too late. If you got into serious trouble with your neighbor and did something that could get you severely penalized (like being thrown into jail and loosing everything you owned), would you not try to settle the case out-of-court to avoid the worst consequences? 

None of us has the power and strength of will for overcoming sin and evil on our own. We stand in constant need of God's grace, help, strength, and protection. That is why scripture uses vivid language to describe God as our rock, refuge, fortress, and mighty defense. We are also vulnerable to Satan's lies and deceptions as well as our own spiritual blindspots for recognizing sin and moral weakness in our own lives. That is why we need God's help and discernment for distinguishing between truth and error, right and wrong, good and evil. Fortunately the Lord Jesus, who is a just judge, is also a merciful advocate who pleads for us at the right hand of the Father in heaven. The light of Jesus Christ reveals what is in our hearts and his grace frees us from the tyranny of sinful habits, hurtful desires, and harmful addictions. God's call is urgent and his grace is available for total freedom and transformation in Christ. If we want to turn away from sin the Lord is ready to give us the grace and help we need to choose for his way of love and holiness. Are you ready for his saving grace and healing action in your life? 

"Lord Jesus, flood my heart with your love and free me for all that would keep me from doing your will. Transform my mind that I may discern what is right and have the courage to choose what is good and pleasing to you."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 12:49-53)

Nagsiling pa gid si Jesus sa ila, "Nagkadto ako diri sa kalibutan sa pagsilot sa mga tawo. Ang ila silot mangin pareho sang kalayo, kag luyag ko nga magdabdab na ini.

Pero sa wala pa ini matabo madamo anay nga mga pag-antos ang akon maagihan. Kag indi gid ako mapahamtang samtang wala pa ini matapos.

"Nagahunahuna bala kamo nga nagkadto ako diri sa kalibutan agod mangin maayo ang relasyon sang isa kag isa? Ang matuod, nagkadto ako diri agod magbinahin-bahin ang mga tawo.

Kay halin karon, tungod sa akon, may lima ka tawo sa pamilya nga magabinahin-bahin. Ang tatlo kontra sa duha kag ang duha kontra sa tatlo.

Ang amay kag ang iya anak nga lalaki magakontrahanay. Ang iloy kag ang iya anak nga babayi magakontrahanay, kag ang ugangan nga babayi kag ang iya umagad nga babayi magakontrahanay."

***

Meditation: 

Do you want to be on fire for God? Jesus shocked his disciples when he declared that he would cast fire and cause division rather than peace upon the earth. What kind of fire did Jesus have in mind here? Fire in biblical times was associated with God and with his action in the world and 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 (Deut. 4:24), righteous judgment (Zechariah 13:9), and his wrath against sin (Isaiah 66:15-16). It is also used of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 3:11 and Acts 2:3). God's fire both purifies and cleanses, and it inspires a reverent fear of God and of his word in us. 

 

Jesus’ sharp statement that he would cause division rather than peace within families must have shocked his disciples.Was he exaggerating? Jesus used a typical Hebrew (Semetic) hyperbole to drive home an important lesson. We often do the same when we want to emphasize something very strongly. Jesus’ hyperbole, however, did contain a real warning that the gospel message does have consequences for our lives. It has the power to heal, restore, and unite those who believe its message. But the consequence of ignoring or rejecting the gospel can lead to many hurtful desires and seduction by the world. 

When Jesus spoke about division he likely had in mind the prophecy of Micah: a man's enemies are the men of his own household (Micah 7:6). The essence of Christianity is loyalty to Jesus Christ, a loyalty that takes precedence over every other relationship. The love of God compels us to choose who will be first in our lives. To place any relationship (or anything else) above God is a form of idolatry. Jesus challenges his disciples to examine who they love first and foremost. A true disciple loves God above all else and is willing to forsake all for Jesus Christ. Jesus insists that his disciples give him the loyalty which is only due to God, a loyalty which is higher than spouse or kin. It is possible that family and friends can become our enemies, if the thought of them keeps us from doing what we know God wants us to do. Does the love of Jesus Christ compel you to put God first in all you do (2 Corinthians 5:14)? 

"Lord Jesus, may your love consume me and transform my life that I may truly desire nothing more than life with you. Make me strong in love and fidelity that nothing may hinder me from doing your will."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 12:39-48)

Tandai ninyo ini: kon mahibaluan sang tagbalay kon san-o maabot ang makawat, bantayan gid niya agod indi makasulod ang makawat sa iya balay.

Gani magbantay gid kamo, kay sa oras nga wala ninyo ginapaabot, ako nga Anak sang Tawo magaabot."

Nagpamangkot si Pedro, "Ginoo, para bala kay sin-o ang paanggid nga ina, sa amon bala nga imo mga sumulunod ukon sa tanan?"

Ginsabat siya ni Jesus paagi sa isa ka paanggid, "Indi bala nga kon sin-o ang masaligan kag maalam nga suluguon amo ang ginapili sang agalon nga magdumala sa iya kaupod nga mga suluguon? Siya ang nagahatag sa ila sang ila pagkaon sa husto nga oras.

Bulahan yadto nga suluguon nga sa pagbalik sang iya agalon maabtan siya nga nagahimo sang iya buluhaton.

Sigurado gid nga padumalahon siya sang iya agalon sa iya tanan nga pagkabutang.

Pero kaluluoy ang suluguon nga sa paglakat sang iya agalon magahunahuna siya nga madugay pa siya magbalik, gani magasugod siya sa pagpamintas sa iya kaupod nga mga suluguon, lalaki kag babayi man, kag magapagusto siya sang kaon, inom kag pahubog.

Magaabot ang iya agalon sa oras nga wala gid niya ginahunahuna, kag grabe ang silot nga iya agumon. Ibutang siya upod sa mga tawo nga indi gid masaligan.

"Ang suluguon nga nakahibalo kon ano ang luyag sang iya agalon pero wala nagatuman, madamo nga hanot ang iya pagaagumon.

Kag ang suluguon nga wala nakahibalo kon ano ang luyag sang iya agalon kag nakahimo sang mga butang nga indi maayo hanuton man, pero diutay lang. Kay ang bisan sin-o nga ginhatagan sang madamo, madamo man ang ginapaabot sa iya. Mas madamo ang ginapaabot sa tawo nga gintugyanan sing madamo."

***

Meditation: 

What lesson can a thief in the night teach us about the kingdom of God? Jesus loved to tell stories, many which ended with a dramatic and unexpected change of circumstances. Can you imagine a thief calling ahead to tell his victim when he would strike? The intruder strikes when he is least expected and under the cover of darkness and secrecy. Should we be surprised to see a thief making off with a great treasure left unguarded?

What does this say about the treasure which God has entrusted to you and me? When God offers us his kingdom he gives us a priceless treasure (see the parable of the treasure hidden in a field and the pearl of great price in Matthew 13:44-46). What is this treasure of immeasurable value? The Lord Jesus himself is our treasure (Job 22:22-23) and the kingdom he offers us is a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). The Lord offers us a relationship with God the Father as his sons and daughters and the promise of eternal life as well. This treasure is of far greater value that any earthly treasure because nothing can diminish its insurpassable worth or destroy it. But it's possible to lose this great treasure if we do not guard it with our heart, mind, soul, and strength. We can lose heaven and eternal friendship with God if we allow Satan – the deceiver and father of lies – to rob us of our faith and make us deny God's word of truth! The Lord Jesus fortunately does not leave us on our own – he stands watch with us to guide, direct, and keep us from the snares of the evil one. Do you keep vigilant watch over the treasure which God has entrusted to you?

Jesus ends his teaching on watchfulness and vigilance with another parable about a master and his servants (similr to the parable in Matthew 24:.45-49). The storyline is similar. There is an element of surprise – the master suddenly returns home unexpectedly, probably from a long journey. He rewards the dutiful servant for his faithfulness to his master. He has performed his service with diligence and has done all that the master required of him. The master punishes the other servant who behaved wickedly. This servant was not only irresponsible – he was frequently absent from work and spent his master's money by throwing endless parties with his friends. The wicked servant also abused his fellow workers with physical force and violence – probably to make them do the work he was supposed to do for his master. The master not only strips him of his job and a secure place to live, but removes him from the joy and fellowship of the people he lived and worked with. The wicked servant is cast into a prison of like-minded rebels, trouble-makers, thieves, and murderers. Can you imagine a place of endless quarreling, strife, hatred, envy, jealousy, and constant abuse and fighting? Should we be surprised to see the master acting with such swift judgment? After all the master is only giving back to the wicked servant what he has given to others through his abusive and irresponsible behavior. The master rewards the faithful servant with promotion, honor, and friendship, and he punishes the unfaithful servant – who stole from his master and used his position to abuse others – by removing him from his position of trust. The Lord has entrusted each one of us with his gifts and grace – the grace to love God with faithfulness, trust, and obedience – and the grace to love our neighbor as ourself. Do you want to be faithful and reliable as the Lord is faithful and trustworthy?

The Lord loves faithfulness and richly rewards those who are faithful to him. What is faithfulness? It's keeping one's word, promise, and commitments no matter how tough or difficult it gets. Faithfulness is a key character trait of God and one that he expects of us. Fortunately God gives the grace and strength to remain faithful. He also rewards faithfulness. The joy and privilege of being a son or daughter of God carries with it an awesome responsibility. The Lord expects us to make good use of the gifts and graces he gives to us. The more he gives, the more he requires. The temptation while the Master is away is to put off for tomorrow what we know the Master expects us to do today. How can we grow in faithfulness? God's grace shows us the way. When we are faithful in the little tasks and promises we make, we learn to be faithful in the bigger and more important responsibilities and tasks entrusted to us.

The Lord Jesus calls us to be vigilant in watching for his return and to be ready to meet him when he calls us to himself. The Lord gives us his Holy Spirit so that we may have the wisdom, help, and strength we need to turn away from sin to embrace God's way of love, justice, and holiness. The Lord's warning of judgment causes dismay for those who are unprepared, but it brings joyful hope to those who eagerly wait for his return in glory. God's judgment is good news for those who are ready to meet him. Their reward is God himself, the source of all truth, beauty, goodness, love and everlasting life.

“Lord Jesus, you have captured my heart and it is yours. Take it that I may have you alone as my treasure and joy. Make me strong in faith, steadfast in hope, and generous in love that I may seek to please you in all things and bring you glory.”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 12:35-38)

Nagsiling pa gid si Jesus sa ila, "Magpreparar kamo sa tanan nga tion agod indi kamo makibot sa pagbalik sang inyo Ginoo. Sunda ninyo ang mga suluguon nga nagahulat sa pagbalik sang ila agalon nga nagtambong sa punsyon. Nagabantay sila kag wala nila ginapatay ang ila mga suga. Gani bisan ano nga oras mag-abot ang ila agalon, kon magpanuktok, mabuksan nila dayon ang puwertahan.

Bulahan yadto nga mga suluguon nga sa pag-abot sang ila agalon nagabugtaw sila kag nakapreparar. Ang matuod, papungkuon niya yadto nga mga suluguon sa iya lamisa kag siya mismo ang magaserbi sa ila.

Bulahan gid sila kon maabtan sila nga nakapreparar sa iya pag-abot bisan sa tungang gab-i ukon kaagahon. 

***

Meditation: 

Are you ever caught off guard when someone shows up unexpectely to get something from you or to see how you are doing? The Boy Scouts have as their motto, Be Prepared! Jesus' master-servant parables seem to extol the virtue of preparedness. But there is something deeper and even more important behind it. There is an element of surprise in the story of the master returning home at a late hour after attending a marriage feast. Will the master catch his servant sleeping rather than keeping watchful guard? And what about the reward promised for those who faithfully perform their duty, day in and day out, no matter what the circumstances?  The image Jesus uses here is a great wedding feast in which the master honors his guests by seating them himself and personally waiting on them. What a great reversal – the master becomes a servant to show his respect and honor for his beloved guests! 

This parable contains a lesson in faithfulness and a warning against sloth.Why is faithfulness so important to God? For one, it's the foundation for any lasting and meaningful relationship. Faithfulness or fidelity allows us to persevere in living out an unswerving commitment. The Lord is committed to us in a bond of unbreakable love and fidelity. That is what covenant means – keeping one's word, promise, and commitment no matter how tough or difficult it gets. Faithfulness is a key character trait of God and one that he expects of us. Fortunately God gives the grace and strength to be faithful. He also rewards faithfulness. Why is fidelity, commitment, and faithfulness so difficult today? Many today in western society extol freedom over fidelity and don't want to be bound to an unknown or uncertain future. It's regarded as inconvenient and a burden to the pursuit of the individual's interests. We badly need to recover this virtue, not only for our own sake, but for the sake of future generations as well. If we want to pass on the faith then we need to first be faithful models for our young people. 

Faithfulness demands consistency, a determination to stay the course and see the task to its completion. Cal Ripken, an American baseball player for the Baltimore Orioles, is a sports hero and a legend to many simply because he always showed up for the game and gave his best. He didn't miss one game in 16 years of playing baseball! That's a total of 2,632 consecutive games. Only one other baseball player in history has come close to that record. In 1983 he hurt his hand sliding on artificial turf and was unable to grip the bat at first; he somehow gritted his teeth and got five hits that night, two of them home runs. 

God loves faithfulness. That is why we can always expect God to give us what he promises. In turn, God expects us to be faithful to him and to one another. How can we grow in faithfulness? God's grace shows us the way. When we are faithful in the little tasks and promises we make, we learn to be faithful in the bigger and more important responsibilities and tasks entrusted to us. Our reward is the Lord Jesus himself who shares with us his joy and friendship – "well done good and faithful servant ..enter into the joy of your Master" (Matthew 25:21). 

"Lord Jesus, you are faithful even when I fail. Help me to persevere in faithfulness and not shrink back in the face of challenges or difficulties. May I never forget your presence with me and may I always be ready to receive you when you call me to your home."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 10:1-9)

Pagkatapos sadto, nagpili ang Ginoo sang 72 pa gid ka mga tawo kag ginpadala niya sila sing tagduha-duha sa mga banwa nga iya pagakadtuan.

Nagsiling siya sa ila, "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.

Lakat kamo! Pero mag-andam kamo, kay pareho kamo sang mga karnero nga akon ginapadala sa mapintas nga mga sapat.

Indi kamo magdala sang kahita, bag, ukon sandalyas. Indi man kamo magdulog sa dalan kag magpanamyaw sa inyo masugata.

Kon magsulod kamo sa isa ka balay, magsiling kamo, 'Kabay nga bendisyunan sang Dios ini nga pamilya.'

Kag kon bagay sila nga magbaton sa inyo pagbendisyon, bendisyunan sila sang Dios. Pero kon indi, indi man sila pagbendisyunan sang Dios.

Magdayon kamo sa una nga balay nga nagabaton sa inyo, kag indi kamo magsaylo-saylo sang inyo dalayunan. Batuna ninyo ang ila ginapakaon sa inyo, kay ang nagapangabudlay dapat lang nga suhulan.

Kag kon diin kamo nga lugar magkadto nga ang mga tawo magabaton sa inyo, kauna ninyo ang bisan ano nga ila ginapakaon sa inyo.

Ayuha ninyo ang mga nagamasakit kag sugiri ninyo sila nga tion na karon nga ang Dios magahari sa ila.

***

Meditation: 

What kind of harvest does the Lord want us to reap today? When Jesus commissioned seventy of his disciples to go on mission, he gave them a vision of a great harvest for the kingdom of God. Jesus frequently used the image of a harvest to convey the coming of God’s reign on earth. The harvest is the fruition of labor and growth – beginning with the sowing of seeds, then growth, and finally fruit for the harvest. In like manner, the word of God is sown in the hearts of receptive men and women who hear his word and who accept it with trust and obedience. The harvest Jesus had in mind was not only the people of Israel, but all the peoples (or nations) of the world. John the Evangelist tells us that  "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). 

What does Jesus mean when he says his disciples must be "lambs in the midst of wolves"? The prophet Isaiah foretold a time when wolves and lambs will dwell in peace (Isaiah 11:6 and 65:25). This certainly refers to the second coming of Christ when all will be united under the Lordship of Jesus after he has put down his enemies and established the reign of God over the heavens and the earth. In the meantime, the disciples must expect opposition and persecution from those who who would oppose the gospel. Jesus came as our sacrificial lamb to atone for the sin of the world. We, in turn, must be willing to sacrifice our lives in humble service of our Lord and Master. 

What is the significance of Jesus appointing seventy disciples to the ministry of the word? Seventy was a significant number in biblical times. Moses chose seventy elders to help him in the task of leading the people through the wilderness. The Jewish Sanhedrin, the governing council for the nation of Israel, was composed of seventy members. In Jesus’ times seventy was held to be the number of nations throughout the world. Jesus commissioned the seventy to a two-fold task: to speak in his name and to act with his power. Jesus gave them instructions for how they were to carry out their ministry. They must go and serve as people without guile, full of charity and peace, and simplicity. They must give their full attention to the proclamation of God’s kingdom and not be diverted by other lesser things. They must  travel light – only take what was essential and leave behind whatever would distract them – in order to concentrate on the task of speaking the word of the God. They must do their work, not for what they can get out of it, but for what they can give freely to others, without expecting reward or payment. “Poverty of spirit” frees us from greed and preoccupation with possessions and makes ample room for God’s provision. The Lord wants his disciples to be dependent on him and not on themselves. 

God gives us his word that we may have abundant life in him. He wills to work through and in each of us for his glory. God shares his word with us and he commissions us to speak it boldly and simply to others. Do you witness the truth and joy of the gospel by word and example to those around you? 

“Lord Jesus, may the joy and truth of the gospel transform my life that I may witness it to those around me. Grant that I may spread your truth and your light wherever I go.”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 18:1-8)

Ginsugiran pa gid ni Jesus ang iya mga sumulunod sang isa ka paanggid agod tudluan sila sa pagpangamuyo permi kag indi magdula sing paglaom.

Nagsiling siya, "May isa ka huwis sa isa ka siyudad nga wala nagakahadlok sa Dios kag bali wala lang sa iya ang iya isigkatawo.

Kag didto man sa sina nga siyudad may isa ka balo nga babayi nga permi nagabalik-balik sa huwis sa pagpabulig sa iya sang iya kaso.

Sang premiro indi magbulig ang huwis. Pero sang ulihi tungod nga sige ang pagbalik-balik sang balo kag ginatublag siya permi, naghunahuna siya nga bisan wala siya nagakahadlok sa Dios kag bali wala lang sa iya ang iya isigkatawo, magabulig na lang siya agod indi na siya matak-an sa pagbalik-balik sang balo."

Dayon nagsiling si Ginoong Jesus sa ila, "Ti nakita ninyo ang ginhimo sang huwis nga indi gani matarong?

Ang Dios pa ayhan! Indi gid mahimo nga indi siya magbulig sa kaso sang mga pinili niya nga nagapanawag sa iya sa adlaw kag gab-i. Sigurado gid nga indi niya sila pagpabay-an.

Ang matuod, buligan niya sila gilayon. Pero kon magbalik na ako nga Anak sang Tawo diri sa kalibutan, may makita ayhan ako nga mga tawo nga nagatuo?" 

***

Meditation: 

What can a shameless and unjust judge pitted against a crusty and pestering woman teach us about justice and vindication in the kingdom of God?  Jesus tells a story that is all too true — a defenseless widow is taken advantaged of and refused her rights. Through sheer persistence she wears down an unscrupulous judge until he gives her justice. Persistence pays off, and that's especially true for those who trust in God. Jesus illustrates how God as our Judge is much quicker to bring us his justice, blessing, and help when we need it. But we can easily lose heart and forget to ask our Heavenly Father for his grace and help.  Jesus told this parable to give fresh hope and confidence to his disciples. In this present life we can expect trials and adversity, but we are not without hope in God. The Last Judgment will reveal that God's justice triumphs over all the injustices perpetrated by his creatures and that God's love is stronger than death (Song of Songs 8:6). The just can look forward with hope to that day when they will receive their reward. 

Jesus ends his parable with a probing question for us. Will you and I have faith — the faith that perseveres to the end — of time when Jesus returns in glory to judge the living and the dead?  Faith is an entirely free gift that God makes to us.  If we want to live, grow, and persevere in the faith until the end, then we must nourish it with the word of God and ask the Lord to increase it (Luke 17:5). When trials and setbacks disappoint you, where do you place your hope? Do you pray with expectant faith and confidence in God's merciful care and providence for you? 

"Lord, give me faith to believe your promises and give me perseverance and hope to withstand trials and adversities. Help me to trust in your unfailing love and to find joy and contentment in you alone."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 12:8-12)

Nagsiling pa gid si Jesus sa ila, "Ang bisan sin-o nga nagasugid sa mga tawo nga ako iya Ginoo, ako nga Anak sang Tawo magakilala man sa iya sa atubangan sang mga anghel sang Dios.

Pero ang nagapanginwala sa akon sa atubangan sang mga tawo, ipanginwala ko man sa atubangan sang mga anghel sang Dios.

Ang bisan sin-o nga maghambal sang malain batok sa akon nga Anak sang Tawo mapatawad; pero ang maghambal sang malain batok sa Espiritu Santo indi gid mapatawad.

"Kon tungod sa inyo pagtuo pagadalhon kamo sa simbahan sang mga Judio ukon sa mga manugdumala sang banwa agod imbistigaron, indi kamo magpalibog kon ano ang inyo isabat.

Kay sa sina nga tion tudluan kamo sang Espiritu Santo kon ano ang inyo dapat ihambal."

***

Meditation:  

What is the unforgivable sin which Jesus warns us to avoid? Jesus knows that his disciples will be tested and he assures them that the Holy Spirit will give them what they need in their time of adversity. He warns them, however, that it's possible to reject the grace of God and to fall into apostasy (giving up the faith) out of cowardice or disbelief. The scriptural expression to deny someone means to disown them. Jesus also speaks against blaspheming the Holy Spirit. What is blasphemy and why is it reprehensible? Blasphemy consists in uttering against God, inwardly or outwardly, words of hatred, reproach, or defiance. It's contrary to the respect due God and his holy name. Jesus speaks of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit as the unforgivable sin. Jesus spoke about this sin immediately after the scribes and Pharisees had attributed his miracles to the work of the devil instead of to God. 

A sin can only be unforgivable if repentance is impossible. If someone repeatedly closes his heart to God and shuts his ears to his voice, he comes to a point where he can no longer recognize God even when God makes himself known. Such a person ends up perceiving evil as good and good as evil (Isaiah 5:20). To fear such a sin, however, signals that one is not dead to God and is conscious of the need for God's grace and mercy. There are no limits to the mercy of God, but anyone who refuses to accept God's mercy by repenting of wrongdoing, rejects the forgiveness of their sins and the salvation offered by the Holy Spirit. God gives grace and help to all who humbly call upon him. Giving up on God and refusing to turn away from sin and disbelief results from pride and the loss of hope in God. 

What is the basis of our hope and confidence in God? John the Evangelist tells us that "God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Jesus' death on the cross won for us our salvation and adoption as the children of God. The love and mercy of Jesus Christ, the forgiveness of sins, and the gift of the Holy Spirit are freely given to those who acknowledge Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Is your hope securely placed in Christ and his victory on the cross? 

"Lord Jesus, you are my hope and salvation. May I trust you at all times and rely on your grace in times of testing and temptation. Let the fire of your Holy Spirit burn in my heart and fill me with a consuming love for you."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 11:47-54)

Sang nagdugok ang linibo-libo nga mga tawo kay Jesus kag nagaginutok sila, nagsiling si Jesus sa iya mga sumulunod, "Mag-andam kamo, kay basi malatnan kamo sang batasan sang mga Pariseo nga pulos pakita-kita lang.

Pero wala sang tinago nga indi mahibaluan sa ulihi.

Gani, bisan ano ang inyo ginahambal sa madulom, mabatian sa masanag, kag ang inyo ginahutik sa sirado nga kuwarto, mahibaluan sang tanan."

"Mga abyan, indi kamo magkahadlok sa mga tawo nga makapatay lang sang inyo lawas, kag pagkatapos wala na sila sing mahimo pa sa inyo.

Sugiran ko kamo kon sin-o ang inyo kahadlukan: kahadlukan ninyo ang Dios, kay pagkatapos nga mapatay niya ang lawas sang tawo may gahom pa gid siya sa paghaboy sang iya kalag sa impiyerno. Amo gani nga ginapaandaman ko kamo nga ang Dios dapat ninyo kahadlukan.

Indi bala nga barato lang ang gamay nga pispis? Pero wala sang isa sa ila nga ginakalimtan sang Dios.

Gani labi pa gid kamo, kay bisan ang inyo mga buhok naisip niya tanan. Gani indi kamo magkahadlok, kay mas mahal pa kamo sang sa mga pispis."

***

Meditation: 

What does leaven have to do with hypocrisy? To the Jews leaven was a sign of evil. It was a piece of dough from left-over bread which fermented.  Fermentation was associated with decay and rotting – the state of foul-smelling decomposition. Why did Jesus warn his disciples to avoid the ways of the Pharisees? The Pharisees wanted everyone to recognize that they were pious and good Jews because they meticulously and scrupulously performed their religious duties. Jesus turned the table on them by declaring that outward appearace doesn't always match the inward intentions of the heart. Anyone can display outward signs of goodness while inwardly harboring evil thoughts and intentions. The word hypocrite means actor – someone who pretends to be what he or she is not. But who can truly be good, but God alone? Hypocrisy thrives on making a good appearance and masking what they don't want others to see. The good news is that God's light exposes the darkness of evil and sin in our hearts, even the sin which is unknown to us. And God's light transforms our hearts and minds and enables us to overcome hatred with love, pride with humility, and pretense with integrity and truthfulness. God gives grace to the humble and contrite of heart to enable us to overcome the leaven of insincerity and hypocrisy in our lives. 

What does fear have to do with the kingdom of God? Fear is a powerful force. It can lead us to panic and flight or it can spur us to faith and action. The fear of God is the antidote to the fear of losing one's life. "I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. ..O fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him have no want! ..Come, O sons, listen to me, I will teach you the fear of the Lord." (Psalm 34:4,9,11) What is godly fear? It is reverence for the One who made us in love and who sustains us in mercy and kindness. The greatest injury or loss which we can experience is not physical but spiritual – the loss of one's soul to the power of hell. A healthy fear of God leads to spiritual maturity, wisdom and right judgment and it frees us from the tyranny of sinful pride, deceit and cowardice – especially in the face of evil and spiritual deception. Do you trust in God's grace and mercy and do you submit to his word? 

"Lord Jesus, may the light of your word free my heart from the deception of sin and consume me with a burning love for your truth and righteousness."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 11:47-54)

Kaluluoy kamo! Nagapahimo kamo sang mga lulubngan sang mga propeta nga ginpamatay sang inyo mga katigulangan.

Gani nagapamatuod kamo kag nagakomporme man sang ila mga ginhimo. Kay sila ang nagpamatay sang mga propeta kag kamo ang nagapahimo sang ila mga lulubngan.

Amo gani nga suno sa kaalam sang Dios nagsiling siya, 'Magapadala ako sa ila sang mga propeta kag mga apostoles; ang iban sang akon ipadala pagapatyon nila, kag ang iban hingabuton nila.'

Gani kamo nga mga tawo sa karon pagasilutan man sang Dios tungod sang ila pagpamatay sang mga propeta sang una, halin pa sang pagtuga sang kalibutan--halin kay Abel hasta kay Zacarias nga ginpatay sa tunga sang altar kag sang Templo. Huo, nagasiling ako sa inyo, kamo nga mga tawo sa karon silutan gid tungod sang ila mga ginhimo.

"Kaluluoy kamo nga mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan! Kay ginatago ninyo ang yabi sa pag-intiendi sang kamatuoran. Indi lang nga wala kamo nagasunod sa kamatuoran, kundi ginabalabagan pa ninyo ang iban nga gusto magsunod."

Pagkatapos nga naghalin si Jesus sa balay, ang mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan kag ang mga Pariseo nagsugod na nga magdumot gid sa iya. Sige ang ila pamangkot sa iya parte sa nagkalain-lain nga mga butang sa pagdakop-dakop sa iya mga pulong.

***

Meditation: 

Do you believe God's word and obey it? God sent his prophets to open the ears of his people to hear and understand God's word and intention for their lives. God's wisdom is personified in the voice of the prophets, a voice that usually brought rejection and martyrdom because they spoke for God rather than for human approval and favor. Jesus chastised many of the religious leaders of his day for being double-minded and for demanding from others standards which they refused to satisfy. They professed admiration for the prophets by building their tombs while at the same time they opposed their message and closed their ears to the word of God. 

What does Jesus mean when he says they have taken away the key of knowledge? The religious lawyers and scribes held the "office of the keys" since they were the official interpreters of the scriptures. Unfortunately their interpretation of the scriptures became so distorted and difficult to understand that others were "shut off" to the scriptures. They not only shut themselves to heaven; they also hindered others from understanding God's word. Through pride and envy, they rejected not only the prophets of old, but God's final prophet, the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus is the "key of David" (see Isaiah 22:22; Revelations 3:7) who opens heaven to those who accept him as Lord and Savior. He is the "Wisdom of God" and source of everlasting life. Only the humble of heart – those who thirst for God and acknowledge his word as true – can truly understand this wisdom. [See Psalm 119:99ff: "I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation."] God is ever ready to speak his word to us and to give us true wisdom and understanding. Do you hunger for the wisdom which comes from above? 

"Lord Jesus, may your word take root in my heart and transform all my thoughts and actions. Give me wisdom and understanding that I may know your will for my life and have the courage to live according to it."

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 11:42-46)

"Kaluluoy kamo nga mga Pariseo! Ginahatag ninyo ang inyo ikanapulo bisan halin pa sa inyo mga panakot, pero ginapatumbayaan ninyo ang paghimo sang matarong sa inyo isigkatawo kag ang paghigugma sa Dios. Dapat ginhimo ninyo ini nga wala ginapatumbayai ang paghatag sang inyo ikanapulo.

"Kaluluoy kamo nga mga Pariseo! Kay kon yara kamo sa mga simbahan, gusto gid ninyo magpungko sa mga pulungkuan nga para sa mga dungganon. Kag sa mga lugar nga madamo sang tawo, gusto gid ninyo nga magtahod sila sa inyo.

Kaluluoy kamo! Pareho kamo sang lulubngan nga wala sang tanda kag ginatapakan lang sang mga tawo nga wala kahibalo nga lulubngan gali yadto." Gani ang buot silingon sini nga bersikulo, ang mga Pariseo pareho sang mga lulubngan nga nagapahigko sa mga tawo. Ginalatnan nila ang mga tawo sang ila ginahimo nga malain.

Nagsiling ang isa ka manunudlo sang Kasuguan, "Manunudlo, sa imo panghambal ginainsultuhan mo man kami."

Nagsabat si Jesus, "Kamo nga mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan, kaluluoy man kamo! Kay ginapabug-atan ninyo ang mga tawo sa madamo nga mga pagsulundan nga ginadugang ninyo sa Kasuguan, pero kamo mismo wala gani nagatuman.

***

Meditation:

Why does Jesus single out the teachers and lawyers for some rather strong words of rebuke? The word woe can also be translated as alas. It is as much an expression of sorrowful pity as it is of anger. Why did Jesus lament and issue such a stern rebuke? Jesus was angry with the religious leaders because they failed to listen to God's word and they misled the people they were supposed to guide in the ways of God. The scribes devoted their lives to the study of the Law of Moses and regarded themselves as legal experts in it. They divided the ten commandments and precepts into thousands of tiny rules and regulations. They were so exacting in their interpretations and in trying to live them out, that they had little time for anything else. By the time they finished compiling their interpretations it took no less than fifty volumes to contain them! In their misguided zeal, they required unnecessary and burdensome rules which obscured the more important matters of religion, such as love of God and love of neighbor. They were leading people to Pharisaism rather than to God. 

Jesus used the example of tithing to show how far they had missed the mark. God had commanded a tithe of the first fruits of one's labor as an expression of thanksgiving and honor for his providential care for his people (Deuteronomy 14:22; Leviticus 27:30). The scribes, however, went to extreme lengths to tithe on insignificant things (such as tiny plants) with great mathematical accuracy. They were very attentive to minute matters of little importance, but they neglected to care for the needy and the weak. Jesus admonished them because their hearts were not right. They were filled with pride and contempt for others. They put unnecessary burdens on others while neglecting to show charity, especially to the weak and the poor. They meticulously went through the correct motions of conventional religion while forgetting the realities. 

Why does Jesus also compare them with "unmarked graves"? According to Numbers 19:16, contact with a grave made a person ritually unclean for seven days.  Jesus turns the table on the Pharisees by declaring that those who come into contact with them and listen to their self-made instruction are likewise defiled by their false doctrine. They infect others with wrong ideas of God and of his intentions. Since the Pharisees are "unmarked", other people do not recognize the decay within and do not realize the danger of spiritual contamination. The Pharisees must have taken Jesus' accusation as a double insult: They are not only spiritually unclean themselves because they reject the word of God, but they also contaminate others with their dangerous "leaven" as well (see Luke 12:1). 

What was the point of Jesus' lesson? The essence of God's commandments is love – love of the supreme good – God himself and love of our neighbor who is made in the image and likeness of God. God is love (1 John 4:8) and everything he does flows from his love for us. God's love is unconditional and is wholly directed towards the good of others. True love both embraces and lifts the burdens of others. Paul the Apostle reminds us that "God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit which has been given us" (Romans 5:5). Do you help your neighbors carry their burdens? God gives each of us sufficient grace for each day to love as he loves and to lift the burdens of others that they, too, may experience the grace and love of Jesus Christ. 

"Lord Jesus, inflame my heart with your love that I may always pursue what matters most – love of you my God and love of my neighbor whom you made in your image and likeness. Give me wisdom and courage to always show kindness, mercy, and justice to all whom I meet."