Joyful Anticipation of the Messiah

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 1:39-45)

Sa tapos sadto si Maria nanghimos kag nagdalidali sa pagkadto sa isa ka banwa sa kabakuloran sang Judea. 

Nagkadto sia sa balay ni Zacarias kag iya gin-abiabi si Elisabet. 

Sang pagkabati ni Elisabet sang pag-abiabi ni Maria, nagkibo ang bata sa iya tiyan. Napun-an si Elisabet sang Espiritu Santo, kag sa mabaskog nga tingog naghmbal, "Bulahan ikaw sa tanan nga mga babayi! Bulahan ang bata nga imo ginadala! 

Ngaa matabo ining daku nga butang sa akon, nga ang iloy sang akon Ginoo magduaw sa akon?

Kay sang pagkabati ko gid sang imo pag-abiabi, ang bata sa akon tiyan nagkibo sa kalipay. 

Bulahan ikaw nga nagtuo nga matuman sa imo ang ginsiling sang Ginoo." 

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit and give me joy in seeking you more closely. Increase my faith in all your promises, my hope in the joys of heaven, and my love for You as my All." 

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you recognize the indwelling presence of the Lord Jesus in your life? Blessed are you if you see and recognize the Lord with the "eyes of faith". The word "blessed" [makarios in Greek] literally means "happiness" or "beatitude". It describes a kind of joy which is serene and untouchable, self-contained, and independent from chance and changing circumstances of life. There is a certain paradox for those "blessed" by the Lord. Mary was given the "blessedness" of being the mother of the Son of God. That blessedness also would become a sword which pierced her heart as her Son died upon the cross. Anselm, a great teacher and Archbishop of Canterbury (1033-1109), spoke these words in a homily: "Without God's Son nothing could exist; without Mary's son, nothing could be redeemed." To be chosen by God is an awesome privilege and responsibility. Mary received both a crown of joy and a cross of sorrow. Her joy was not diminished by her sorrow because it was fueled by her faith, hope, and trust in God and his promises. Jesus promised his disciples that "no one will take your joy from you" (John 16:22). The Lord gives us a supernatural joy which enables us to bear any sorrow or pain and which neither life nor death can take away. Do you know the joy of a life given over to God in faith and trust? 

What is the significance of Mary's visit to her cousin Elizabeth before the birth of Jesus? When Elizabeth greeted Mary and recognized the Messiah in Mary's womb they were filled with the Holy Spirit and with a joyful anticipation of the fulfilment of God's promise to give a Savior. What a marvelous wonder for God to fill not only Elizabeth's heart with his Holy Spirit but the child in her womb as well. John the Baptist, even before the birth of the Messiah, pointed to his coming and leapt for joy in the womb of his mother as the Holy Spirit revealed to him the presence of the King to be born. The Holy Spirit is God's gift to us to enable us to know and experience the indwelling presence of God and the power of his kingdom. The Holy Spirit is the way in which God reigns within each of us. Do you live in the joy and knowledge of God's indwelling presence with you through his Holy Spirit?

"Madamo ang magakalipay sa iya pagkatawo"

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 1:5-25)

Sang si Herodes amo ang hari sa Judea, may isa ka pari nga ginhingalanan kay Zacarias sa linya sang pagkapari ni Abias. Ang iya asawa si Elisabet nga kaliwat man sang panimalay sang mga pari. 

Nagkabuhi sila sing matarong sa atubangan sang Dios, kag nagtuman sang tanan nga mga kasugoan kag mga pagsulondan sang Ginoo. 

Wala sila sing bata kay si Elisabet baw-as kag tigulang na sila. 

Isa ka adlaw, turno na ni Zacarias ang pag-alagad subong pari sa atubangan sang Dios sa bahin sang iya grupo. 

Suno sa kinabatasan sang mga pari, nahanabo nga natuon sa iya ang pagsunog sang insyenso sa altar. Gani nagsulod sia sa templo sang Ginoo, samtang ang madamo nga mga tawo nagapangamuyo sa gwa sa tion nga ginasunog ang insyenso. 

Dayon may nagpakita sa iya nga isa ka anghel sang Ginoo nga nagatindog sa tuo nayon sang altar sa diin ginasunog ang insyenso.

Sang pagkakita ni Zacarias sa anghel natublag sia kag hinadlukan gid. 

Pero ang anghel nagsiling sa iya, "Zacarias, indi ka magkahadlok! Ginapamatian sang Dios ang imo pangamuyo kag si Elisabet nga imo asawa magaanak sing isa ka bata nga lalaki. Pagahingalanan mo sia kay Juan. 

Magamalipayon kag masinadyahon ka tungod sa iya, kag madamo ang magakalipay sa iya pagkatawo! 

Kay mangindaku sia sa atubangan sang Ginoo. Indi sia mag-inom sing bino ukon ilimnon nga makahulobog. Mapun-an sia sang Espiritu Santo halin sa iya pagkatawo. 

Pabalikon niya ang madamo nga mga tawo sang Israel sa Ginoo nga ila Dios. 

Magauna sia sa iya nga may kusog kag gahom kaangay kay Elias nga propeta. Pabalikon niya ang maayo nga kaangtanan sang mga ginikanan kag mga kaanakan. Palisuon niya ang mga di-masinulondon sa panghunahona sang mga matarong. Amanon niya ang mga tawo para sa Ginoo." 

Si Zacarias nagsiling sa anghel, "Ano ang pagkahibalo ko kon matuod ini? Tigulang na ako kag subong man ang akon asawa." 

Ang anghel nagsabat sa iya, "Ako si Gabriel nga nagatindog sa atubangan sang Dios. Ginpadala niya ako sa paghambal kag sa pagsugid sa imo sining maayong balita. 

Pero tungod kay wala ka magpati sang akon ginsugid sa imo nga matuman sa nagakaigo nga tion, magaapa ka tubtob sa adlaw nga matuman ining ginsiling ko." 

Sa pihak nga bahin, ang mga tawo naghinulat kay Zacarias. Natingala sila nga nadugayan sia sa sulod sang templo. 

Sang paggwa niya indi na sia makahambal. Gani nahangpan nila nga nakakita sia sing palanan-awon sa templo. Nagsinyas na lang sia sa ila kay indi na sia makahambal. 

Sang matapos niya ang iya turno sa pag-alagad sa templo nagpauli sia. 

Sang ulihi ang iya asawa nga si Elisabet nagbusong kag wala sia magguwagowa sa ila balay sa sulod sang lima ka bulan. 

Nagsiling sia, "Sa sining paagi ginbuligan gid man ako sang Ginoo kag ginkuha niya ang akon kahuloy-an sa atubangan sang mga tawo." 

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, you bring hope and restoration to your people. Restore and strengthen Christian family life today. Help me to love and serve my family. May your love rule in all my relationships and remove any barriers to peace and harmony."  

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:
Do you believe that God will fulfill all his promises just as he said? Advent is a time to renew our hope and confidence in God’s faithfulness to the covenant he made with his people. In preparing the way for a Savior, we see the wondrous miracle of two barren couples who conceive and bear sons – Samson in the Old Testament (Judges 13) and John the Baptist in the New Testament (Luke 1:5ff) – who are called by God to bring hope and deliverance at a time of spiritual darkness and difficulty for the people of God. 

Zechariah was a godly man who was tuned to God’s voice. He was born into a priestly family and it was his privilege to be chosen to enter the inner court of the temple to offer sacrifice to God. Luke records that the people wondered at Zechariah’s delay and were amazed that he was speechless when he withdrew from the inner sanctuary. They rightly perceived that he had a special encounter with God. God’s angelic messenger greeted Zechariah with a blessing beyond his expectations. “Your prayer is heard! You will have a son! And his mission will be great for all of Israel. ” Now that seemed like a lot for Zechariah to take in all at once. Could God really do a miracle for his barren wife, Elizabeth? The angel somewhat wisely put Zechariah in his place before God’s mighty action. He became speechless until the day the infant was dedicated to the Lord and given the name, John. When God draws us into his presence, he wants us to be still and quiet before him so we can listen to his voice as he speaks to our hearts and reveals his mind to us. Do you listen attentively to the Lord and do you ponder his word in your heart with trust and confidence?

In the annunciation of the birth of John the Baptist, the angel explains to Zechariah the role his son is to play in preparing the way for the Messiah. John will be great in the sight of God. He will live as a Nazarite (see Numbers 6) – a person set apart for the Lord. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even within his mother's womb. And he shall be sent to the people of God, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of fathers and children to God and one another, by turning the "disobedient to the wisdom of the just." The name John means "the Lord is gracious". When God acts to save us he graciously fills us with his Holy Spirit and makes our faith "alive" to his promises. Do you pray that "the hearts of parents and children may be turned to God and one another"?

"Ang bisan sin-o nga labing kubos sa mga nagapasakop sa paghari sang Dios mas labaw pa kay Juan"

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. 

Prayers:

"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." 

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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?

"Ang mga bulag nakakita kag ang Maayong Balita ginawali sa mga imol"

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." 

Prayers:

"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".  

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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?

"Nauna pa sa inyo nga nagapasakop sa paghari sang Dios ang mga manugsukot sang buhis kag ang mga babayi nga nagbaligya sang ila dungog"

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." 

Prayers:

"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."  

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:
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?

"Kay sin-o bala naghalin ang awtoridad ni Juan sa pagbautiso, sa Dios bala ukon sa tawo?"

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." 

Prayers:

"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."  

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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.

"Kinahanglan nga mag-abot anay si Elias, agod ipreparar niya ang tanan nga mga butang"

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. 

Prayers:

"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." 

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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?

"Kay sa Dios wala sing bisan ano nga indi mahimo"

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

Sa ikan-om nga bulang sang pagbusong ni Elisabet ginpadala sang Dios si Gabriel nga anghel didto sa banwa sang Galilea nga ginatawag Nazaret. 

Ang anghel may dala nga mensahi para sa isa ka ulay nga dalaga nga kalasalon sa isa ka tawo nga ginhingalanan kay Jose nga kaliwat ni Haring David. Ang ngalan sang dalaga amo si Maria. 

Ang anghel nagpakita sa iya kag nagsiling, "Magkalipay ka! Ikaw nga labing nahamut-an, ang Ginoo yara sa imo!" 

Sang pagkabati ni Maria sang ginsiling sang anghel natublag gid sia, kag nagpalibog kon ano ang kahulogan sang ginhambal sang anghel. 

Nagsiling ang anghel sa iya, "Indi ka magkahadlok, Maria, kay nahamut-an ka sang Dios. 

Yari karon, magabusong ka kag magaanak sang isa ka bata nga lalaki, kag pagahingalanan mo sia kay Jesus. 

Mangindaku sia kag pagatawgon nga Anak sang Labing Makagagahom nga Dios. Ang Ginoong Dios magahimo sa iya nga hari subong sang iya amay nga si David, kag manginhari sia sing dayon sa mga kaliwat ni Jacob kag ang iya ginharian wala sing katapusan." 

Si Maria nagsabat sa anghel, "Ano ang pagkahimo sini, kay ulay ako nga babayi?" 

Ang anghel nagsabat, "Ang Espiritu Santo magakaunsad sa imo, kag ang gahom sang Dios magalikop sa imo. Tungod sini ang balaan nga bata nga matawo sa imo pagatawgon nga Anak sang Dios. 

Dumdoma bala ang imo paryente nga si Elisabet. Bisan tigulang na sia kag baw-as, nagabusong na sing anom ka bulan sang isa ka bata nga lalaki. 

Kay sa Dios wala sing bisan ano nga indi mahimo." 

Si Maria nagsiling, "Alagad ako sang Ginoo. Kabay nga matuman ini sa akon suno sa imo ginsiling." Kag ang anghel nagbiya sa iya. 

Prayers:

"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."  

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:
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?

"Magsunod kamo kag Makapahuway kamo"

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 11:28-30)

"Palapit kamo sa akon, tanan kamo nga ginabudlayan kag ginabug-atan kag papahuwayon ko kamo. 

Magsunod kamo kag magpatudlo sa akon kay malulo ako kag mabuot. Makapahuway kamo, kay ang akon mga sugo mahapos nga tumanon kag mamag-an lang ang akon ginapahimo." 

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, inflame my heart with love for you and for your ways and help me to exchange the yoke of rebellion for the sweet yoke of submission to your holy and loving word. Set me free from the folly of my own sinful ignorance and rebellious pride that I may I wholly desire what is good and in accord with your will." 

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

What kind of yoke does Jesus have in mind for us? And how can it be good for us? The Jews used the image of a yoke to express submission to God. They spoke of the yoke of the law, the yoke of the commandments, the yoke of the kingdom, the yoke of God. Jesus says his yoke is "easy". The Greek word for "easy" can also mean "well-fitting". Yokes were tailor-made to fit the oxen well. We are commanded to put on the "sweet yoke of Jesus" and to live the "heavenly way of life and happiness". Oxen were yoked two by two. Jesus invites each one of us to be yoked with him, to unite our life with him, our will with his will, our heart with his heart. Jesus also says his "burden is light". There's a story of a man who once met a boy carrying a smaller crippled lad on his back. "That's a heavy load you are carrying there," exclaimed the man. "He ain't heavy; he's my brother!" responded the boy. No burden is too heavy when it's given in love and carried in love. When we yoke our lives with Jesus, he also carries our burdens with us and gives us his strength to follow in his way of love. Do you know the joy of resting in Jesus' presence and walking daily with him along the path he has for you? 

In the Advent season we celebrate the coming of the Messianic King who ushers in the reign of God. The prophets foretold that the Messiah would establish God's kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy. Those who put their trust in God and in the coming of his kingdom receive the blessings of that kingdom – peace with God and strength for living his way of love and holiness (Isaiah 40). Jesus fulfills all the Messianic hopes and promises of God's kingdom. That is why he taught his disciples to pray, "thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). In his kingdom sins are not only forgiven but removed, and eternal life is poured out for all its citizens. This is not a political kingdom, but a spiritual one. The yoke of Christ's kingdom, his kingly rule and way of life, liberates us from the burden of guilt and disobedience. Only Jesus can lift the burden of sin and the weight of hopelessness from us. Jesus used the analogy of a yoke to explain how we can exchange the burden of sin and despair for a yoke of glory, freedom, and joy with him. The yoke which Jesus invites us to embrace is his way of grace, power, and freedom to live in love, peace, and joy as God's sons and daughters. Do you trust in God's love and submit to his will for your life?

"Amo ina ang balatyagon sang inyo Amay sa langit nga indi gid niya luyag nga madula ang bisan isa"

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." 

Prayers:

"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." 

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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?

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

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." 

Prayers:

"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." 

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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?

"Ipreparar ninyo ang alagyan para sa Ginoo"

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Marcos 1:1-8)

Amo ini ang Maayong Balita parte kay Jesu-Cristo nga Anak sang Dios. 

Nagsugod ini sang matuman ang ginsulat ni Isaias nga propeta parte sa ginhambal sang Dios sa iya Anak nga nagasiling, "Ipadala ko ang akon manugbalita una sa imo sa pagpreparar sang imo alagyan. 

Ini nga manugbalita amo ang magawali sing mabaskog sa kamingawan. Magasiling siya sa mga tawo, 'Ipreparar ninyo ang alagyan para sa Ginoo, tadlunga ang dalan nga iya pagaagihan.' " 

Kag natuman ini sang pag-abot ni Juan nga manugbautiso sa kamingawan. Madamo nga mga tawo ang nagkadto didto sa iya nga halin sa tanan nga banwa sang Judea, kag madamo pa gid ang halin sa Jerusalem. Nagwali si Juan sa ila nga nagasiling, "Maghinulsol kamo sa inyo mga sala kag magpabautiso, kag ang Dios magapatawad sa inyo." Nagtuad sila sang ila mga sala kag ginbautisohan niya sila sa Suba sang Jordan. 

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

Amo ini ang iya ginapahibalo: "May magaabot nga nagasunod sa akon nga mas gamhanan pa sang sa akon kag indi gani ako takos nga mangin iya suluguon."

Nagsiling pa gid siya, "Ako nagabautiso sa inyo sa tubig, pero siya magabautiso sa inyo sa Espiritu Santo." 

Prayers:

"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." 

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel: 

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?

"Sa tion nga ini magahari ang Dios sa mga tawo"

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. 

Prayers:

"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."  

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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?

"Sin-o ang makasakop sila sa paghari sang Dios?"

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." 

Prayers:

"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."  

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

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?