Ang bato nga ginsikway sang mga manunokod

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 21:33-46)

Biyernes (Marso 21)

Si Jesus nagsiling, “Pamatii ninyo ang isa pa ka palaanggiran: may isa ka tag-iya sang talamnan nga nagpatanom sang ubas. Iya ini ginkudalan palibot, nagpakutkot sia sing buho para pulogaan sang ubas kag nagpatindog sia sing mataas nga balantayan. Iya ini ginpaagsahan kag nagpanglakaton.

Sang tion na sa pagpamupo sang ubas, ginpadala niya ang iya mga suloguon sa mga agsador sa pagkuha sang iya parti.

Gindakop sang mga agsador ang iya mga suloguon: ang isa ginbunal nila, ginpatay ang isa, kag ang isa pa gid ginbato nila.

Liwat iya ginpakadto ang iban niya nga mga suloguon nga madamo pa sang sa nahauna, kag amo man ang ginhimo sang mga agsador sa ila.

Sa katapusan ginpadala niya sa ila ang iya anak. Nagasiling sia, ‘Tahuron gid nila ang akon anak.’

Pero sang pagkakita sang mga agsador sang anak, nagsinilingay sila, ‘Amo ini ang manunobli. Dali kamo, patyon naton sia, kag mangin-aton ang iya palanublion!’

Gani gindakop nila sia, ginhaboy sa gwa sang talamnan sang ubas, kag ginpatay.”

Nagpamangkot si Jesus, “Karon, kon mag-abot ang tag-iya sang talamnan, ano ang iya himuon sa sadtong mga agsador?”

Nagsabat sila, “Pamatyon gid niya ining malain nga mga tawo nga wala sing luoyluoy, kag ipaagsa niya ang iya talamnan sa iban nga mga agsador nga magahatag sa iya sang iya parti sa tagsa ka patubas.”

Si Jesus nagsiling sa ila, “Wala bala ninyo mabasahi ang ginasiling sang mga Kasulatan? ‘Ang bato Nga ginsikway sang mga manunokod Nanginpamakod nga bato. Ang Ginoo amo ang naghimo sini, Daw ano ini ka makatilingala!’ ”

Si Jesus nagsiling pa gid, “Gani nagasiling ako sa inyo, ang Ginharian sang Dios kuhaon sa inyo, kag ihatag sa mga tawo nga magapatubas sang nagakaigo nga mga bunga.

Ang bisan sin-o nga mahulog sa sini nga bato mapusa, pero ang mahulogan sini nga bato madugmok subong sang yab-ok.”

Nabatian sang pangulo nga mga pari kag mga Fariseo ining mga palaanggiran ni Jesus kag nahangpan nila nga sila ang ginatumod ni Jesus.

Gani gintinguhaan nila nga dakpon sia. Ugaling nahadlok sila sa mga tawo, nga nagakabig kay Jesus subong isa ka propeta.

Prayers:

"Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits which you have given us - for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us. O most merciful redeemer, friend, and brother, may we know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, for your own sake." (prayer of St. Richard of Chichester, 13th century)

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you ever feel cut off or separated from God? Joseph was violently rejected by his brothers and sold into slavery in Egypt. His betrayal and suffering, however, resulted in redemption and reconciliation for his brothers. "Fear not, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today" (Genesis 50:19-20). Joseph prefigures Jesus who was betrayed by one of his own disciples and put to death on the cross for our redemption. Jesus came to reconcile us with an all-just and all-merciful God. His parables point to the mission he came to accomplish - to bring us the kingdom of God.

Parable of the vineyard

What is the message of the parable of the vineyard? Jesus' story about an absentee landlord and his not-so-good tenants would have made sense to his audience. The hills of Galilee were lined with numerous vineyards, and it was quite common for the owners to let out their estates to tenants. Many did it for the sole purpose of collecting rent.Why did Jesus' story about wicked tenants cause offense to the scribes and Pharisees? It contained both a prophetic message and a warning. Isaiah had spoken of the house of Israel as "the vineyard of the Lord" (Isaiah 5:7). Jesus' listeners would have likely understood this parable as referring to God's dealing with a stubborn and rebellious people.

This parable speaks to us today as well. It richly conveys some important truths about God and the way he deals with his people. First, it tells us of God's generosity and trust. The vineyard is well equipped with everything the tenants need. The owner went away and left the vineyard in the hands of the tenants. God, likewise trusts us enough to give us freedom to run life as we choose. This parable also tells us of God's patience and justice. Not once, but many times he forgives the tenants their debts. But while the tenants take advantage of the owner's patience, his judgment and justice prevail in the end.

Gift of the kingdom

Jesus foretold both his death on the cross and his ultimate triumph. He knew he would be rejected and be killed, but he also knew that would not be the end. After rejection would come glory - the glory of his resurrection and ascension to the right hand of the Father in heaven. The Lord blesses his people today with the gift of his kingdom. And he promises that we will bear much fruit if we abide in him (see John 15:1-11). He entrusts his gifts and grace to each of us and he gives us work to do in his vineyard - the body of Christ. He promises that our labor will not be in vain if we persevere with faith to the end (see 1 Corinthians 15:58). We can expect trials and even persecution. But in the end we will see triumph. Do you serve the Lord Jesus with joyful hope and confidence in his victory and gift of abundant life?

Lazaro gindala sa luyo gid ni Abraham

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 16:19-31)

Huwebes (Marso 20)

“May isa anay ka manggaranon nga tawo nga nagabayu sing malahalon kag nagapatuyang sa iya pagkaon adlaw-adlaw.

May isa man ka imol nga tawo nga ginhingalanan kay Lazaro nga puno sang katol. Ini sia pirme lang ginadala sa puwertahan sang balay sadtong manggaranon nga tawo kag nagahandom sia nga makakaon sang nagakadagdag nga mga pagkaon gikan sa lamisa sang manggaranon. Bisan pa ang mga ido nagapalapit kag nagadilap sang iya katol.

Ang imol nga tawo napatay kag gindala sang mga anghel sa luyo gid ni Abraham. Ang manggaranon nga tawo napatay man kag ginlubong.

Nag-antos sia didto sa Hades kag sang pagtangla niya nakita niya sa malayo si Abraham kag si Lazaro sa iya gid luyo.

Gani nagpanawag sia, ‘Amay nga Abraham! Kaluoyi ako, kag ipadala si Lazaro sa pagtum-oy sang iya tudlo sa tubig kag pabugnawan ang akon dila, kay tama ang akon pag-antos sa sini nga kalayo.’

Pero si Abraham nagsabat, ‘Dumdoma, anak ko, nga sang nagakabuhi pa ikaw, imo ang tanan nga maayo nga mga butang, samtang ang kay Lazaro iya ang malain nga mga butang. Pero karon nagakalipay sia diri, samtang ikaw imo nagakasakit.

Wala labot sina, sa gin-utlan naton may daku nga kadadalman, gani ang luyag magkadto dira halin diri indi makatabok, kag wala man sing may makatabok halin dira pakari diri.’

Ang manggaranon nga tawo nagsiling, ‘Amay, kon amo ina, nagapakiluoy ako sa imo nga ipadala mo si Lazaro sa balay sang akon amay, sa diin may lima pa ako ka mga utod nga lalaki. Pakadtoa sia didto sa pagpaandam sa ila agod nga sila indi man magkadto sa sining duog sang pag-antos.’

Si Abraham nagsabat, ‘Didto man si Moises kag ang mga propeta sa pagpaandam sa imo mga utod nga lalaki. Papamatia ang imo mga utod sa ginahambal nila.’

Ang manggaranon nga tawo nagsabat, ‘Amay nga Abraham, kulang pa ina. Kon may isa nga mabanhaw kag magkadto sa ila, ti, magabiya sila sa ila mga sala.’

Pero si Abraham nagsiling, ‘Kon indi sila magpamati kay Moises kag sa mga propeta, indi man ina sila magpamati bisan pa may isa nga mabanhaw.’ ”

Prayers: 

"Lord Jesus, you are my joy and my treasure. Make me rich in the things of heaven and give me a generous heart that I may freely share with others the spiritual and material treasures you have given to me."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

What sustains you when trials and affliction come your way? The prophet Jeremiah tells us that whoever relies on God will not be disappointed or be in want when everything around them dries up or disappears (Jeremiah 17:7-8). God will not only be their consolation, but their inexhaustible source of hope and joy as well.

Jesus' parable about the afflictions of the poor man Lazarus brings home a similar point. In this story Jesus paints a dramatic scene of contrasts - riches and poverty, heaven and hell, compassion and indifference, inclusion and exclusion. We also see an abrupt and dramatic reversal of fortune. Lazarus was not only poor, but sick and unable to fend for himself. He was "laid" at the gates of the rich man's house. The dogs which licked his sores probably also stole the little bread he got for himself. Dogs in the ancient world symbolized contempt. Enduring the torment of these savage dogs only added to the poor man's miseries and sufferings. The rich man treated the beggar with contempt and indifference, until he found his fortunes reversed at the end of his life! In God's economy, those who hold on possessively to what they have, lose it all in the end, while those who share generously receive back many times more than they gave way.

The name Lazarus means God is my help. Despite a life of misfortune and suffering, Lazarus did not lose hope in God. His eyes were set on a treasure stored up for him in heaven. The rich man, however, could not see beyond his material wealth and possessions. He not only had every thing he needed, he selfishly spent all he had on himself. He was too absorbed in what he possessed to notice the needs of those around him. He lost sight of God and the treasure of heaven because he was preoccupied with seeking happiness in material things. He served wealth rather than God. In the end the rich man became a beggar!

Do you know the joy and freedom of possessing God as your true and lasting treasure? Those who put their hope and security in heaven will not be disappointed (see Hebrews 6:19).

Gintuman ni Jose ang ginsiling sang anghel sang Ginoo

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 1:16, 18-21, 24)

Miyerkules (Marso 19)

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

Amo ini ang pagkatawo ni Jesu-Cristo. Ang iya iloy nga si Maria kalasalon na kay Jose, pero sa wala pa sila makasal nasapwan ni Maria nga nagabusong na sia sa gahom sang Espiritu Santo.

Si Jose nga kalasalon sa iya isa ka tawo nga nagahimo sing matarong, pero indi sia luyag nga mahuy-an si Maria sa mga tawo. Gani ginpakamaayo niya ang pagbiya sa iya sa tago lang.

Samtang ginabinagbinag ni Jose ini nga butang, ang isa ka anghel sang Ginoo nagpakita sa iya sa damgo nga nagasiling, "Jose, kaliwat ni David, indi ka magkahadlok sa pagpangasawa kay Maria, kay ang Espiritu Santo amo ang naglalang sang ginabusong niya.

Magaanak sia sing lalaki, kag pagahingalanan mo sia nga Jesus, kay magaluwas sia sang iya mga tawo sa ila mga sala."

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

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, you came to free us from the power of sin, fear, and death, and to heal and restore us to wholeness of life. May I always trust in your saving help, guidance, wisdom, and plan for my life".

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Are you prepared to obey the Lord in everything? Faith in God's word and obedience to his commands go hand in hand. Joseph, like Mary, is a model of faith and justice. Matthew tells us that Joseph was a “just man”. John Chrysostom (347-407 AD), a gifted preacher and bishop of Constantinople, comments on the great virtue we see in Joseph which qualified him to be a worthy guardian and foster father for the child Jesus:

“The concept of 'just' here signifies the man who possesses all the virtues. By 'justice' one at times understands only one virtue in particular, as in the phrase: the one who is not avaricious (greedy) is just. But 'justice' also refers to virtue in general. And it is in this sense, above all, that scripture uses the word ‘justice’. For example, it refers to: a just man and true (cf. Job 1:1), or the two were just (cf. Luke 1:6). Joseph, then, being just, that is to say good and charitable...”

Joseph's faith was put to the test when he discovered that his espoused wife Mary was pregnant. Joseph, being a just and God-fearing man, did not wish to embarrass, punish, or expose Mary to harm. To all outward appearances she had broken their solemn pledge to be faithful and chaste to one another. Joseph, no doubt took this troubling matter to God in prayer. He was not hasty to judge or to react with hurt and anger. God rewarded him not only with guidance and consolation, but with the divine assurance that he had indeed called Joseph to be the husband of Mary and to assume a mission that would require the utmost faith, confidence, and trust in Almighty God. Joseph believed in the divine message to take Mary as his wife and to accept the child in her womb as the promised Messiah, who is both the only begotten Son of God and son of Mary conceived by the Holy Spirit.

Joseph was a worthy successor to the great patriarchs of the old covenant – Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Joseph followed the call of God through the mysterious circumstances that surrounded the coming of Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah who fulfilled all the promises made to Abraham and his offspring. God entrusted this silent, humble man with the unique privilege of raising, protecting, teaching, and training Jesus as a growing child. Joseph accepted his role of fatherly care with faith, trust, and obedience to the will of God. He is a model for all who are entrusted with the care, instruction, and protection of the young. Joseph is a faithful witness and servant of God's unfolding plan of redemption. Are you ready to put your trust in the Lord to give you his help and guidance in fulfilling your responsibilities? God gives strength and guidance to those who seek his help, especially when we face trials, doubts, fears, perplexing circumstances, and what seems like insurmountable problems and challenges in our personal lives. God our heavenly Father has not left us alone, but has given us his only begotten Son Jesus as our savior, teacher, lord, and healer. Where do you need God's help and guidance? Ask the Lord to increase your faith and trust in his promises and in his guiding hand in your life.

"Ang nagapaubos sang iya kaugalingon pagapakataason"

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 23:1-12)

Martes (Marso 18)

Dayon si Jesus naghambal sa madamo nga mga tawo kag sa iya mga gintuton-an, “Ang mga manunodlo sang Kasugoan kag ang mga Fariseo, amo ang mga awtoridad sa pagsaysay sang Kasugoan ni Moises.

Gani tumana kag sunda ninyo ang ila ginasiling sa inyo, pero indi kamo mag-ilog sang ila ginahimo, kay lain ang ila ginahambal kag lain man ang ila ginahimo.

Nagaaman sila sang mabug-at nga dalal-on kag ginapapas-an nila ini sa mga tawo, pero wala man gani sila nagabulig.

Ang tanan nila nga ginahimo pakitakita lang sa mga tawo. Dalagku ang mga sulodlan sang mga dinalan sang kasulatan nga ginabugkos nila sa ila mga agtang kag sa ila mga butkon kag malaba ang mga sidsid sang ila bayu!

Luyag sila magpungko sa pinasulabi nga mga pulongkoan sa mga punsyon kag sa nahauna nga mga pulongkoan sa mga sinagoga.

Luyag sila nga abiabihon sing matinahuron sa mga merkado, kag tawgon nga ‘Manunodlo.’ 

Pero kamo inyo indi dapat magpatawag nga ‘Manunodlo,’ kay kamo tanan mag-ulotod, kag isa lamang ang inyo Manunodlo.

Indi kamo magtawag bisan kay sin-o nga tawo diri sa duta nga ‘Amay,’ kay isa lamang ang inyo amay sa langit.

Kag indi man kamo magpatawag nga ‘Pangulo,’ kay isa lamang ang inyo pangulo nga amo ang Cristo.

Ang labing daku sa inyo dapat manginsuloguon ninyo.

Ang nagapakataas sang iya kaugalingon pagapaubson, kag ang nagapaubos sang iya kaugalingon pagapakataason.”

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, you became a servant for my sake to set me free from the tyranny of selfish pride and self-concern. Teach me to be humble as you are humble and to love others generously with selfless service and kindness."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Who doesn’t desire the praise and respect of others? We want others to see us at our best with all of our strengths and achievements – rather than at our worst with all of our faults and shortcomings. God sees us as we truly are – sinners and beggars always in need of his mercy, help, and guidance. The prophet Isaiah warned both the rulers and the people of Sodom and Gomorrah to listen to God's teaching so they could learn to do good and to cease from evil (Isaiah 110,17). Jesus warned the scribes and Pharisees, the teachers and rulers of Israel, to teach and serve their people with humility and sincerity rather than with pride and self-promotion. They went to great lengths to draw attention to their religious status and practices. In a way they wanted to be good models of observant Jews. "See how well we observe all the ritual rules and regulations of our religion!" In their misguided zeal for religion they sought recognition and honor for themselves rather than for God. They made the practice of their faith a burden rather than a joy for the people they were supposed to serve. True respect for God inclines us to humble ourselves and to submit to his teaching. We cannot be taught by God unless we first learn to listen to his word and then obey his instruction.

Was Jesus against calling anyone a rabbi, the Jewish title for a teacher of God's word (Matthew 23:7-8), or a father? – the law of Moses commanded fathers to teach their children to obey God's instructions (Deuteronomy 6:7)? Or was he just directing this sharp rebuke to the scribes and Pharisees? Jesus seemed to be warning both his disciples and the religious leaders about the temptation to seek titles and honors to increase one's own reputation and admiration by others. The scriptures give ample warning about the danger of self-seeking pride: Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbes 16:18). God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; Proverbs 3:24). Origen, a Christian teacher and bible scholar writing in the 3rd century, reminds those who teach and lead to remember that "you have one teacher, and you are all brothers to each other...Whoever ministers with the divine word does not put himself forward to be called teacher, for he knows that when he performs well it is Christ who is within him. He should only call himself servant according to the command of Christ, saying, Whoever is greater among you, let him be the servant of all."

Respect for God and for his ways inclines us to Godly humility and simplicity of heart. What is true humility and why should we embrace it? 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 oneself without illusion or pretense to be something one is not. A truly humble person regards oneself neither smaller nor larger than one truly is. True humility frees us to be ourselves as God sees us and to avoid despair and pride. A humble person does not want to wear a mask or put on a facade in order to look good to others. Such a person is not swayed by accidentals, such as fame, reputation, success, or failure. Do you know the joy of Christ-like humility and simplicity of heart?

Humility is the queen or foundation of all the other virtues because it enables us to see and judge correctly, the way God sees. Humility helps us to be teachable so we can acquire true knowledge, wisdom, and an honest view of reality. It directs our energy, zeal, and ambition 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 Apostle gives us the greatest example and model of humility in the person of Jesus Christ, who emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and ...who humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:7-8). Do you want to be a servant as Jesus served and loved others? The Lord gives grace to those who humbly seek him.

"Magpatawad kamo, kag ang Dios magapatawad man sa inyo"

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 6:36-38)

Lunes (Marso 17)

Magmaluloy-on kamo, subong nga ang inyo Amay maluloy-on.”

“Indi kamo magpanghukom, kag ang Dios indi man maghukom sa inyo. Indi kamo magpangkondenar sang iban, kag ang Dios indi man magkondenar sa inyo. Magpatawad kamo, kag ang Dios magapatawad man sa inyo.

Magpanghatag kamo sa iban, agod ang Dios magahatag man sa inyo. Ang ihatag sa inyo nasukob sing maayo, nadasok, nauyog kag nagaawas. Kay ang ginagamit ninyo nga talaksan para sa iban amo man ang talaksan sang Dios para sa inyo.”

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, your love brings freedom, pardon, and joy. Transform my heart with your love that nothing may make me lose my temper, ruffle my peace, take away my joy, or make me bitter towards anyone."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you pray for God's mercy and pardon for yourself and for those you know who need his mercy? Do you promptly forgive those who wrong you, or do you allow resentment and ill-will to grow in your heart? Daniel was ‘shamefaced’ before God because he recognized that many of God's people had been unfaithful to God's commands and to his covenant with them (see Daniel 9:4-10). He acknowklowledged the sins and failings of his own people, and he pleaded with God for compassion and pardon. When we are confronted with our own sins and personal failings we experience guilt and shame. This can often either lead us to cast off pride and make-belief or it can lead us to lose our inhibitions and fall into more shameless deeds! If we are utterly honest and humble before God, we will admit our own sins and ask for his mercy and forgiveness. The Lord gives help and strength to those who choose to do what is right and to turn away from whatever would lead them into hurtful and sinful desires. Do you know the joy and freedom of heartfelt repentance, forgiveness, and a clean conscience?

What makes true disciples of Jesus Christ different from those who do not know the Lord Jesus and what makes Christianity distinct from any other religion? It is grace – treating others not as they deserve, but as God wishes them to be treated – with loving-kindness, forebearance, and mercy. God shows his goodness to the unjust as well as to the just. His love embraces saint and sinner alike. God always seeks what is best for each one of us and he teaches us to seek the greatest good of others, even those who hate and abuse us. Our love for others, even those who are ungrateful and unkind towards us, must be marked by the same kindness and mercy which God has shown to us. It is easier to show kindness and mercy when we can expect to benefit from doing so. How much harder when we can expect nothing in return. Our prayer for those who do us ill both breaks the power of revenge and releases the power of love to do good in the face of evil.

How can we possibly love those who cause us grief, ill-will, and harm? With God all things are possible. He gives power and grace to those who trust in his love and who seek his help and wisdom. The Lord is ready to work in and through us by his Holy Spirit, both to purify our minds and hearts and to guide us in choosing what is good and loving. Paul the Apostle reminds us that "God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit which has been given to us" (Romans 5:5) God's love conquers all, even our hurts, injuries, fears, and prejudices. Only the cross of Jesus Christ and his victory over sin can free us from the tyranny of malice, hatred, revenge, and resentment, and give us the courage to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Such love and grace has power to heal, restore, and transform us into the image of Christ. Do you know the power of Christ's redeeming love and mercy?

Pamati sa hinigugma nga Anak sang Amay

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 17:1-9)

Domingo (Marso 16)

Sang makaligad ang anom ka adlaw gindala ni Jesus si Pedro kag ang mag-utod nga si Santiago kag si Juan sa isa ka mataas nga bukid nga silahanon lang.

Samtang nagatulok sila, nagbalhin ang dagway ni Jesus. Ang iya guya nagsilaw subong sang adlaw, kag ang iya bayu nagputi subong sang kapawa.

Dayon nakita sang tatlo ka mga gintuton-an si Moises kag si Elias nga nagapakighambal kay Jesus.

Gani si Pedro nagsiling kay Jesus, “Ginoo, maayo gid nga yari kita diri. Kon luyag mo, mahimo ako sing tatlo ka tolda, isa para sa imo, isa para kay Moises, kag ang isa para kay Elias.” 

Sang nagahambal pa sia, ginlikupan sila sang masilaw nga panganod, kag gikan sa panganod may isa ka tingog nga nagasiling, “Ini amo ang akon hinigugma nga Anak nga nahamut-an ko gid. Pamatii ninyo sia!”

Sang pagkabati sini sang mga gintuton-an, hinadlukan gid sila kag naghapa sila sa duta.

Ginpalapitan sila ni Jesus kag gintandog nga nagasiling, “Tindog kamo kag indi magkahadlok!”

Sang pagtangla nila, wala sila sing iban nga nakita, kundi si Jesus lamang.

Sang pagdulhog nila sa bukid, nagpaandam si Jesus sa ila nga nagasiling, “Indi kamo magpanugid bisan kay sin-o sang inyo nakita, tubtob nga ang Anak sang Tawo mabanhaw.” 

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, keep me always alert to you, to your word, your action, and your daily presence in my life. Let me see your glory."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Are you prepared to see the glory of the Lord and to share in his glory as well? God made a promise to Abraham that he would make him a channel of great blessing not only to his own family and future descendants but to all the families of the earth as well (Genesis 12:3)! The condition for the fulfillment of this promise was simple and straightforward - "Go from your family and country to the land that I will show you" (Genesis 12:1). Abraham not only believed in God's promise, he promptly obeyed and did as the Lord commanded him. God chose Abraham as his instrument of blessing - that through him and his descendants would come the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ who would reaveal the glory and blessing of God's kingdom and bring salvation for all who would call upon his name.

The Lord Jesus is the fulfillment of all the promises made to Abraham and to his spiritual descendants. In all that Jesus did and said he sought to please his Father and to bring him glory. LikeAbraham, he was ready to part with anything that might stand in the way of doing the will of God. He knew that the success of his mission would depend on his willingness to embrace his Father's will not matter what it might cost him. He had prophesied three times to his disciples that he would undergo suffering and death on a cross to fulfill that mission. As the time draws near for Jesus's ultimate sacrifice, he takes three of his beloved disciples to top of a high mountain. Just as Moses and Elijah were led to the mountain of God to discern their ultimate call and mission, so Jesus now appears with Moses and Elijah on the highest mountain overlooking the summit of the promised land. Matthew's gospel tells us that Jesus was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light (Matthew 17:2).

Why did Jesus appear in dazzling light with Moses and Elijah? The book of Exodus tells us that when Moses had met with God on Mount Sinai the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God (Exodus 34:29). Paul the Apostle wrote that the Israelites could not look at Moses' face because of its brightness (2 Corinthians 3:7). After Elijah, the geatest of the prophets, had destroyed priests and idols of Baal, he took refuge on mountain of God at Sinai. There God showd Elijah his glory in great thunder, wirlwind, and fire, and then spok with him in a still quiet voice: In so many words God questioned Elijah, "What are you doing here?" And then directed him to go and fulfill the mission which he sent to accomplish for the sake of God's name. Jesus, likewise, appears in glory with Moses and Elijah, as if to confirm with them that he, too, is ready to fulfill the mission which he Father has sent him to accomplish.

Jesus went to the mountain knowing full well what awaited him in Jerusalem - his betrayal, rejection and crucifixion. Jesus very likely discussed this momentous decision to go to the cross with Moses and Elijah. God the Father also spoke with Jesus and gave his approval: This is my beloved Son; listen to him. The Father glorified his son because he was faithful and willing to obey him in everything. The cloud which overshadowed Jesus and his apostles fulfilled the dream of the Jews that when the Messiah came the cloud of God's presence would fill the temple again (see Exodus 16:10, 19:9, 33:9; 1 Kings 8:10; 2 Maccabees 2:8).

The Lord Jesus not only wants us to see his glory - he wants to share this glory with us. And Jesus shows us the way to the Father's glory - "follow me" - "obey my words." Take the path I have chosen for you and you will receive the blessing of my Father's kingdom - your name, too, will be written in heaven." Jesus fulfilled his mission on Calvary where he died for our sins so that Paradise and everlasting life would be restored to us. He embraced the cross to win a crown of glory that awaits each one of us, if we, too, will follow in his footsteps.

Origen (185-254 AD), a noted early church bible scholar and teacher, explains the significance of Jesus' transfiguration for our lives:

"When he is transfigured, his face also shines as the sun that he may be manifested to the children of light who have put off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light, and are no longer the children of darkness or night but have become the sons of day, and walk honestly as in the day. Being manifest, he will shine unto them not simply as the sun, but as demonstrated to be the sun of righteousness."

Luke's gospel tells us that while Jesus was transfigured, Peter, James, and John were asleep (Luke 9:32)! Upon awakening they discovered Jesus in glory along with Moses and Elijah. How much do we miss of God's glory and action because we are asleep spiritually? There are many things which can keep our minds asleep to the things of God: Mental lethargy and the "unexamined life" can keep us from thinking things through and facing our doubts and questions. The life of ease can also hinder us from considering the challenging or disturbing demands of Christ. Prejudice can make us blind to something new the Lord may have for us. Even sorrow can be a block until we can see past it to the glory of God. Are you spiritually awake? Peter, James, and John were privileged witnesses of the glory of Christ. We, too, as disciples of Christ are called to be witnesses of his glory. We all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being changed into his likeness from one degree of glory to another; for this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18). The Lord wants to reveal his glory to us, his beloved disciples. Do you seek his presence with faith and reverence?

Higugmaa kag magpangamuyo para sa imo mga kaaway

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 5:43-48)

Sabado (Marso 15)

"Inyo man nabatian ang ginsiling, 'Higugmaa ang imo mga abyan, kag dumti ang imo mga kaaway.'

Pero karon nagasiling ako sa inyo: higugmaa ang inyo mga kaaway, kag magpangamuyo kamo para sa mga nagahingabot sa inyo, agod mangin-anak kamo sang inyo Amay nga yara sa langit. Kay wala sing kapin kag kulang ang pagpasilak niya sang iya adlaw sa mga malain kag mga maayo, kag pareho man lang ang iya paghatag sing ulan sa mga matarong kag di-matarong. 

Ti ngaa gid abi nga ang Dios maghatag sa inyo sing balos kon ang inyo ginahigugma amo man lang ang mga tawo nga nagahigugma sa inyo? Bisan ang mga manugsukot sang buhis nagahimo man sina! 

Kag kon ang ginabugno ninyo ang inyo man lang mga amigo, pinasahi gid bala ina? Bisan ang mga pagano nagahimo man sina! 

Gani, magmanginhimpit kamo, subong nga ang inyo Amay sa langit himpit."

Prayers:

"Give us, Lord, a humble, quiet, peaceable, patient, tender and charitable mind, and in all our thoughts, words and deeds a taste of the Holy Spirit. Give us, Lord, a lively faith, a firm hope, a fervent charity, and love of you. Take from us all lukewarmness in meditation, dullness in prayer. Give us fervor and delight in thinking of you and your grace, your tender compassion towards me. The things we pray for, good Lord, give us grace to labor for: through Jesus Christ our Lord. " (Prayer of Thomas More, 1478-1535)

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you know the love that conquers every fear, sin, and selfish desire? God renews his love for us each and every day. His love has the power to free us from every form of evil - selfishness, greed, anger, hatred, jealously and envy. 'the distinctive feature of Jesus' life and the life of those transformed by his redeeming love? It's grace - treating others, not as they deserve, but as God wishes them to be treated - with loving-kindness and mercy. Jesus is God's grace incarnate. His love is unconditional and is wholly directed towards our good. God is good to all, the just and the unjust. His love embraces saint and sinner alike. That's why Jesus willingly went to the cross for our sake, to free us from the power of sin, ignorance, and prejudice. God's grace sets us free from everything that would keep us from him and his love. How can we possibly love as God loves and overcome evil with good? With God all things are possible. He gives grace in abundance through the gift of the Holy Spirit, who converts our hearts and minds and teaches us how to live according to God's truth and love.

Was Jesus exaggerating when he said we must be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect? The original meaning of "perfect" in Aramaic is "completeness" or "wholeness" - not lacking in what is essential. God gives us every good gift in Jesus Christ so that we may not lack anything we need to carry out his will and to live as his sons and daughters. He knows our frailty and sinfulness better than we do. And he assures us of his grace and help to follow in his ways. In the cross of Jesus we see the way of perfect love. Do you want to grow in the knowledge, wisdom, and love of God? Ask the Holy Spirit to set your heart on fire with the love of God.

Indi magkaakig, magpakighusay ka

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 5:20-26)

Biyernes (Marso 14)

Gani ginasingganan ko kamo, nga sarang lang kamo makasulod sa Ginharian sang langit kon ang inyo katutom sa pagtuman sang ginapaabot sang Dios sa inyo maglabaw sa katutom sang mga manunodlo sang Kasugoan kag sang mga Fariseo."

"Inyo nabatian ang ginsiling sang una sa inyo mga katigulangan, 'Indi ka magpatay sang tawo. Ang bisan sin-o nga makapatay pagadalhon sa hukmanan.'

Pero karon nagasiling ako sa inyo nga ang bisan sin-o nga nagakaakig sa iya utod, pagadalhon sa hukmanan; kag ang bisan sin-o nga nagapakalain sa iya utod, sa pagsiling sa iya, 'Hoy, waay ka pulos!' pagadalhon sa Pinakamataas nga Hukmanan; kag ang bisan sin-o nga nagasiling sa iya utod, 'Hoy, buang!' may katalagman nga magpa-impiyerno.

Gani kon nagadala ikaw sang imo dulot sa Dios kag madumdoman mo nga ang imo utod may aligutgot sa imo, bayai anay ang imo dulot sa atubangan sang altar kag magpakighusay sa imo utod, kag ugaling magbalik ka kag maghalad sang imo dulot sa Dios.

"Kon may tawo nga magsumbong sa imo sa hukmanan, magpakighusay ka sa iya samtang may tion pa kag wala pa kamo makakadto sa hukmanan, kay kon didto na kamo, iya ikaw itugyan sa hukom kag ang hukom magatugyan sa imo sa gwardya, kag isulod ka sa bilangguan.

Nagasiling ako sa imo, magapabilin ka didto tubtob mabayaran mo ang tanan mo nga multa." 

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, my heart is cold. Make it warm, compassionate, and forgiving towards all, even those who do me harm. May I only think and say what is pleasing to you and be of kind service to all I meet."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you allow sin or anger to master your life? The first person to hate his brother was Cain. God warned Cain: 'Why are you angry? ..Sin in couching at the door; it's desire is for you, but you must master it (Genesis 4:6-7). Sin doesn't just happen; it first grows as a seed in one's heart. Unless it is mastered, by God's grace, it grows like a weed and chokes the life out of us. Jesus addressed the issue of keeping the commandments with his disciples. The scribes and Pharisees equated righteousness with satisfying the demands of the law. Jesus showed them how short they had come. Jesus points to the heart as the seat of desire, choice, and intention. Unless forbidden and evil desires are uprooted and cut-out, the heart will be poisoned and the body become a slave to sin and passion. Jesus illustrates his point with the example of the commandment to not kill. Murder first starts in the heart as the seed of forbidden anger that grows within until it springs into words and actions against one's brother or neighbor. This is a selfish anger that broods and is long-lived, that nurses a grudge and keeps wrath warm, and that refuses to die. Anger in the heart as well as anger in speech or action are equally forbidden. The Lord Jesus commands by grace - take away the anger in your heart and there will be no murder.

What is the antidote for overcoming anger and rage? Mercy, forbearance, and kindness spring from a heart full of love and forgiveness. God has forgiven us and he calls us to extend mercy and forgiveness towards those who cause us grief or harm. In the cross of Jesus we see the supreme example of love and the power for overcoming evil. Only God's love and grace can set our hearts and minds free from the tyranny of wounded pride and spiteful revenge. Do you harbor any anger towards another person? And are you quick to be reconciled when a rupture has been caused in your relationships? Ask God to set you free and to fill your heart and mind with his love and truth.

Eusebius, a 3rd century church father, offered the following prayer as instruction for his fellow Christians:

"May I be no man's enemy, and may I be the friend of that which is eternal and abides. May I never quarrel with those nearest me: and if I do, may I be reconciled quickly. May I love, seek, and attain only that which is good. May I wish for all men's happiness and envy none. May I never rejoice in the ill-fortune of one who has wronged me. When I have done or said what is wrong, may I never wait for the rebuke of others, but always rebuke myself until I make amends. May I win no victory that harms either me or my opponent. May I reconcile friends who are angry with one another. May I never fail a friend who is in danger. When visiting those in grief may I be able by gentle and healing words to soften their pain. May I respect myself. May I always keep tame that which rages within me. May I accustom myself to be gentle, and never be angry with people because of circumstances. May I never discuss who is wicked and what wicked things he has done, but know good men and follow in their footsteps."

Do you seek to live peaceably and charitably with all?

Pangayo kag ikaw pagahatagan sang imo Amay sa langit

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 7:7-12)

Huwebes (Marso 13)

"Pangayo kag pagahatagan kamo, pangita kag makakita kamo, panuktok kag pagaabrihan kamo.

Kay ang nagapangayo pagahatagan, kag ang nagapangita makakita, kag ang nagapanuktok pagaabrihan.

May amay bala nga magahatag sing bato sa iya anak nga nagapangayo sing tinapay?

Ukon magahatag bala sia sing man-og kon ginapangayuan sia sang isda?

Gani kon kamo nga mga malaut makahibalo maghatag sing maayo nga mga butang sa inyo kabataan, daw ano pa gid ang inyo Amay nga yara sa langit. Magahatag sia sing maayo nga mga butang sa mga nagapangayo sa iya!

"Himoa sa iban ang luyag ninyo nga pagahimuon sa inyo. Amo ini ang kahulogan sang Kasugoan ni Moises kag ang pagtudlo sang mga propeta."

Prayers:

"Let me love you, my Lord and my God, and see myself as I really am - a pilgrim in this world, a Christian called to respect and love all whose lives I touch, those in authority over me or those under my authority, my friends and my enemies. Help me to conquer anger with gentleness, greed by generosity, apathy by fervor. Help me to forget myself and reach out towards others." (Prayer attributed to Clement XI of Rome)

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you expect God to hear your prayers? Esther's prayer on behalf of her people is a model for us. She prayed for help according to God's promise to be faithful to his people. God wants us to remember his promises and to count on his help when we pray.

Jesus wanted to raise the expectations of his disciples when he taught them how to pray. Jesus' parable of the father feeding his son illustrates the unthinkable! How could a loving father refuse to give his son what is good; or worse, to give him what is harmful? In conclusion Jesus makes a startling claim: How much more will the heavenly Father give to those who ask! 

Our heavenly Father graciously gives beyond our expectations. Jesus taught his disciples to pray with confidence because the Heavenly Father in his goodness always answers prayers. That is why we can boldly pray: Give us this day our daily bread.

Those who know and trust in God's love, pray with great boldness. Listen to what John Chrysostom, a 5th century church father, has to say about the power of prayer:

"Prayer is an all-efficient panoply [i.e. 'a full suit of armor' or 'splendid array'], a treasure undiminished, a mine never exhausted, a sky unobstructed by clouds, a haven unruffled by storm. It is the root, the fountain, and the mother of a thousand blessings. It exceeds a monarch's power. ..I speak not of the prayer which is cold and feeble and devoid of zeal. I speak of that which proceeds from a mind outstretched, the child of a contrite spirit, the offspring of a soul converted - this is the prayer which mounts to heaven. ..The power of prayer has subdued the strength of fire, bridled the rage of lions, silenced anarchy, extinguished wars, appeased the elements, expelled demons, burst the chains of death, enlarged the gates of heaven, relieved diseases, averted frauds, rescued cities from destruction, stayed the sun in its course, and arrested the progress of the thunderbolt. In sum prayer has power to destroy whatever is at enmity with the good."

Prayer flows from the love of God; and the personal love we show to our neighbor is fueled by the love that God has poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). Jesus concludes his discourse on prayer with the reminder that we must treat our neighbor in the same way we wish to be treated by God and by others. We must not just avoid doing harm to our neighbor, we must actively seek his or her welfare. In doing so, we fulfill the law and the prophets, namely what God requires of us - loving God with all that we have and are and loving our neighbor as ourselves. The Holy Spirit is every ready to transform our lives in Jesus' way of love. Do you thirst for holiness and for the fire of God's love?

Ang milagro nga natabo kay Jonas para sa malaut nga panahon

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 11:29-32)

Miyerkules (Marso 12)

Sang nagatilipon ang mga tawo sa palibot ni Jesus, nagsiling sia, “Daw ano kalaut sang mga tawo karon nga panahon! Nagapangayo sila sing isa ka milagro, pero wala sing may ipakita sa ila, kundi ang milagro nga natabo kay Jonas.

Subong nga si Jonas nangintanda para sa mga tawo sa Ninive, amo man ang Anak sang Tawo mangintanda para sa mga tawo sa sining panahon.

Sa Adlaw sang Paghukom ang Rayna sang Bagatnan magatindog kag magasumbong sang mga tawo sining panahon, kay nagkari sia gikan sa malayo nga duog sa pagpamati sang kaalam ni Salomon, kag karon nagasiling ako sa inyo, may yari diri nga daku pa kay Salomon.

Sa Adlaw sang Paghukom ang mga tawo sang Ninive magatindog kag magasumbong sa inyo, kay nagbiya sila sa ila mga sala sang pagkabati nila kay Jonas nga nagwali. Karon nagasiling ako sa inyo, may yari diri nga daku pa kay Jonas.”

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, change my heart and fill me with your wisdom that I my love your ways. Give me strength and courage to resist temptation and stubborn wilfulness that I may truly desire to do what is pleasing to you."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you pay careful attention to warning signs? Many fatalities could be avoided if people paid attention to such signs. When the religious leaders demanded a sign from Jesus, he gave them a serious warning to avert spiritual disaster. It was characteristic of the Jews that they demanded "signs" from God's messengers to authenticate their claims.

When the religious leaders pressed Jesus to give proof for his claims he says in so many words that he is God's sign and that they need no further evidence from heaven than his own person. The Ninevites recognized God's warning when Jonah spoke to them, and they repented. And the Queen of Sheba recognized God's wisdom in Solomon. Jonah was God's sign and his message was the message of a merciful God for the people of Nineveh. 

Unfortunately the religious leaders were not content to accept the signs right before their eyes. They had rejected the message of John the Baptist and now they reject Jesus as God's Anointed One (Messiah) and they fail to heed his message. Simeon had prophesied at Jesus' birth that he was destined for the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that inner thoughts of many will be revealed (Luke 2:34-35). Jesus confirmed his message with many miracles in preparation for the greatest sign of all - his resurrection on the third day.

The Lord Jesus came to set us free from slavery to sin and hurtful desires. Through the gift of the Holy Spirit he pours his love into our hearts that we may understand his will for our lives and walk in his way of holiness. God searches our hearts, not to condemn us, but to show us where we need his saving grace and help. He calls us to seek him with true repentance, humility, and the honesty to see our sins for what they really are - a rejection of his love and will for our lives. God will transform us if we listen to his word and allow his Holy Spirit to work in our lives. Ask the Lord to renew your mind and to increase your thirst for his wisdom and truth.

James says that the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, without uncertainty or insincerity (James 3:17). A double-minded person cannot receive this kind of wisdom. The single of mind desire one thing alone - God's pleasure. God wants us to delight in him and to know the freedom of his truth and love. Do you thirst for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14)?

Ang inyo Amay sa langit nakahibalo na sang inyo kinahanglan

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 6:7-15)

Martes (Marso 11)

"Sa inyo pagpangamuyo indi kamo maggamit sang madamo nga mga pulong nga wala sing pulos subong sang ginahimo sang mga pagano, nga nagahunahona nga pagapamatian sila sang Dios tungod kay malawig ang ila mga pangamuyo.

Indi kamo magmanginkaangay sa ila, kay ang inyo Amay nakahibalo na sang inyo kinahanglan sa wala pa kamo makapangamuyo.

Gani dapat kamo magpangamuyo sing subong sini: 'Amay namon nga yara sa langit, Pakabalaanon ang imo ngalan, Magkari ang imo Ginharian, Matuman ang imo kabubot-on Diri sa duta Subong man sang sa langit Hatagi kami karon nga adlaw Sang kalan-on Nga amon kinahanglanon, Patawara kami sang amon mga sala, Subong nga ginapatawad man namon Ang mga nakasala sa amon.

Indi kami pag-ipadaog Sa mga pagsulay, Kundi luwasa kami sa Malaut.

"Kay kon ginapatawad ninyo ang mga nakasala sa inyo, ang inyo Amay sa langit magapatawad man sang inyo mga sala.

Pero kon wala ninyo ginapatawad ang mga nakasala sa inyo, ang inyo Amay sa langit indi man magpatawad sa inyo."

Prayers:

"Father in heaven, you have given me a mind to know you, a will to serve you, and a heart to love you. Give me today the grace and strength to embrace your holy will and fill my heart and mind with your truth and love that all my intentions and actions may be pleasing to you. Help me to be kind and forgiving towards my neighbor as you have been towards me."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Do you believe that God's word has power to change and transform your life today? Isaiah says that God's word is like the rain and melting snow which makes the barren ground spring to life and become abundantly fertile (Isaiah 55:10-11). God's word has power to penetrate our dry barren hearts and make them springs of new life. If we let God's word take root in our heart it will transform us into the likeness of God himself and empower us to walk in his way of love and holiness. God wants his word to guide and shape the way we think, act, and pray. Ambrose (339-397 AD), an early church father and bishop of Milan, wrote that the reason we should devote time for reading Scripture is to hear Christ speak to us. "Are you not occupied with Christ? Why do you not talk with him? By reading the Scriptures, we listen to Christ."

We can approach God confidently because he is waiting with arms wide open to receive his prodigal sons and daughters. That is why Jesus gave his disciples the perfect prayer that dares to call God, Our Father. This prayer teaches us how to ask God for the things we really need, the things that matter not only for the present but for eternity as well. We can approach God our Father with confidence and boldness because the Lord Jesus has opened the way to heaven for us through his death and resurrection. When we ask God for help, he fortunately does not give us what we deserve. Instead, God responds with grace, mercy, and loving-kindness. He is good and forgiving towards us, and he expects us to treat our neighbor the same. God has poured his love into our hearts through the gift of the Holy Spirit who has been given to us (Romans 5:5). And that love is like a refining fire - it purifies and burns away all prejudice, hatred, resentment, vengeance, and bitterness until there is nothing left but goodness and forgiveness towards those who cause us grief or harm. 

Consider what John Cassian (360-435 AD), an early church father who lived for several years with the monks in Bethlehem and Egypt before founding a monastery in southern Gaul, wrote about the Lord's Prayer and the necessity of forgiving one another from the heart: 

"The mercy of God is beyond description. While he is offering us a model prayer he is teaching us a way of life whereby we can be pleasing in his sight. But that is not all. In this same prayer he gives us an easy method for attracting an indulgent and merciful judgment on our lives. He gives us the possibility of ourselves mitigating the sentence hanging over us and of compelling him to pardon us. What else could he do in the face of our generosity when we ask him to forgive us as we have forgiven our neighbor? If we are faithful in this prayer, each of us will ask forgiveness for our own failings after we have forgiven the sins of those who have sinned against us, not only those who have sinned against our Master. There is, in fact, in some of us a very bad habit. We treat our sins against God, however appalling, with gentle indulgence - but when by contrast it is a matter of sins against us ourselves, albeit very tiny ones, we exact reparation with ruthless severity. Anyone who has not forgiven from the bottom of the heart the brother or sister who has done him wrong will only obtain from this prayer his own condemnation, rather than any mercy." 

Do you treat others as you think they deserve to be treated, or do you treat them as the Lord has treated you - with mercy, steadfast love, and kindness?

Ginoo, san-o ka bala namon nakita nga ginagutom?

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 25:31-46)

Lunes (Marso 10)

“Kon ang Anak sang Tawo magkari subong Hari, nga ginaupdan sang tanan nga mga anghel, magalingkod sia sa iya harianon nga trono, kag ang tanan nga mga tawo sa kalibutan pagatipunon sa iya atubangan. Dayon painon niya sila sa duha ka grupo, subong nga ang mga karnero ginapain sang manugbantay sa mga kanding. 

Ipahamtang niya ang mga karnero sa iya tuo, kag ang mga kanding sa iya wala.

Dayon ang Hari magasiling sa mga tawo sa iya tuo, ‘Kari kamo nga ginpakamaayo sang akon Amay. Panublia ninyo ang Ginharian nga gin-aman sa inyo halin pa sa pagtuga sang kalibutan. 

Kay gingutom ako kag ginpakaon ninyo ako, gin-uhaw ako kag ginpainom ninyo ako, dumoluong ako kag ginpadayon ninyo ako sa inyo mga puloy-an, hubo ako kag ginpabayuan ninyo ako, nagmasakit ako kag gin-atipan ninyo ako, nabilanggo kag ginduaw ninyo ako.’

Ang mga matarong magasabat sa iya, ‘San-o bala Ginoo nga nakita ka namon nga nagutom kag ginpakaon ka namon, ukon nauhaw kag ginpainom ka namon?

San-o ka bala namon nakita nga dumoluong kag ginpadayon ka sa amon nga mga balay, ukon hubo kag ginpabayuan ka namon?

San-o ka bala namon nakita nga nagmasakit ukon nabilanggo kag ginduaw ka namon?’

Ang Hari magasabat, ‘Nagasiling ako sa inyo, kon inyo ini nahimo sa isa sang labing kubos sining akon mga utod, ginhimo ninyo ini sa akon!’

“Dayon magasiling sia sa mga tawo sa iya wala, ‘Palayo kamo sa akon, mga ginpakamalaut sang Dios! Didto kamo sa kalayo nga wala sing katapusan nga gin-aman sa Yawa kag sa iya mga anghel!

Kay gingutom ako kag wala ninyo ako pagpakan-a, gin-uhaw ako kag wala ninyo ako pagpaimna, dumoluong ako kag wala ninyo ako pagpadayuna sa inyo mga balay, hubo ako kag wala ninyo ako pagpabayui, nagmasakit ako kag ginbilanggo pero wala ninyo ako pagduawa.’ 

Dayon magasabat sila sa iya, ‘Ginoo, san-o ka bala namon nakita nga ginagutom, ukon ginauhaw, ukon dumoluong, ukon hubo, ukon nagamasakit, ukon ginabilanggo kag wala kami magbulig sa imo?’

Ang Hari magasabat sa ila, ‘Matuod gid nagasiling ako sa inyo, kon wala ninyo paghimoa ini sa isa sining labing kubos, wala man ninyo mahimo ini sa akon.’

Ini sila pagasilutan sa wala sing katapusan, kag ang mga matarong magaangkon sang kabuhi nga wala sing katapusan.”

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus Christ, you are my Lord and King and there is no other. May your love rule in my heart that I may think and act with charity towards all."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

What kind of future are you preparing for? What about the life to come after our death? God puts in the heart of every living person the desire for unending life and happiness - but a life of unending happiness can only be fulfilled in him. While death claims each of us at the appointed time, God gives us something which physical death cannot touch - his own divine life (2 Peter 1:3-4) and the sustaining power of his Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9-11). We can either accept or reject the offer which God makes to us in Christ Jesus the Lord. The Day of the Lord will reveal what kind of life we have chosen for the age to come - a life of peace and joy with God or a life of misery and separation apart from God.

Jesus' parable of the separation of goats and sheep invites his audience to consider their lives in view of the age to come (Matthew 25:31-46). What happens when you put sheep and goats together? Jesus' audience readily understood the need for separating the two. In arid lands, like Israel, goats and sheep often grazed together during the day because green pasture was sparse. At nightfall, when the shepherd brought the sheep and goats to their place of rest, he separated them into two groups. Goats by temperament are aggressive, domineering, restless, and territorial. They butt heads with their horns whenever they think someone is intruding on their space.

What's the point of this story for us? The kind of life we choose to live now and the moral choices we make will have consequences that determine our future - for better or for worse. Separation is an inevitable consequence of judgement. The Day of Judgement will reveal who had true faith in God and who lived according to God's command to love him first above all else and to love one's neighbor as oneself, with true compassion and mercy (see Leviticus 19:1-2,11-18). Jesus calls us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. We are not called to flee the society around us nor to disdain those who treat us unfavorably or unfairly. We are to be leaven in a society that needs God's healing love and forgiveness. When we let our light shine we allow others to see God's love, truth, and compassion in the way we speak and treat them. God has shown us his incredible mercy and loving-kindness through his Son, Jesus Christ, who came to save us from the tyranny of sin and Satan, and a world blinded by vanity and deception. We are ambassadors for Christ and our mission is to bring his light, truth, and merciful love to those who stumble in darkness, ignorance, and unbelief.

As much as we might like to judge the parables, the parables, nonetheless, judge us by pointing out the consequences of the choices we make and the kind of life we choose to follow. Jesus teaches us a very important lesson about loving our neighbor and taking responsibility for others. God will judge us not only for the wrong we have done but also for what we have failed to do. Now is the time of God’s mercy, for seeking his help and grace to turn away from sin, and to walk in his way of love. We can love freely, generously, and unconditionally because God has already poured his love into our hearts through the gift and working of his Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). Ask the Holy Spirit to purify your heart that you may love as God loves and live charitably with all.

This parable is similar to the parable about Lazarus and the rich man (Luke 16:19-31). The rich man let Lazarus die on his doorstep and was doomed to crave for drops of cold water he had not thought of giving to the poor man. When Martin of Tours (316-397 AD), a young Roman soldier and seeker of the Christian faith, met an unclothed man begging for alms in the freezing cold, he stopped and cut his coat in two and gave half to the stranger. That night he dreamt he saw the heavenly court with Jesus robed in a torn cloak. One of the angels present asked, "Master, why do you wear that battered cloak?" Jesus replied, "My servant Martin gave it to me." Martin's disciple and biographer Sulpicius Severus states that as a consequence of this vision "Martin flew to be baptized." God is gracious and merciful; his love compels us to treat others with mercy and kindness. When we do something for one of Christ's little ones, we do it for Christ. Do you treat your neighbor with mercy and love as Christ has treated you?

The scriptures present us with the choice between two kingdoms - the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. The choice is ours. Which kingdom do you serve? God's kingdom lasts forever because it is built on the foundation of God's love and justice. To accept Jesus as Lord and King is to enter a kingdom that will last forever where righteousness, love, truth, and peace dwell. Is your life submitted to the Lordship of Jesus?

Si Jesus nagpuasa kag ginsulay sang yawa

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Mateo 4:1-11)

Domingo (Marso 9)

Dayon si Jesus gindala sang Espiritu sa desierto agod sulayon sang Yawa.

Sa tapos ang 40 ka adlaw kag 40 ka gab-i nga pagpuasa, si Jesus gingutom.

Ang Yawa nagpalapit sa iya kag nagsiling, "Kon ikaw ang Anak sang Dios, sugoa ining mga bato nga mangintinapay." 

Si Jesus nagsabat, "Ang kasulatan nagasiling, 'Indi lamang sa tinapay mabuhi ang tawo, kundi sa tagsa ka pulong nga ginahambal sang Dios.' " 

Dason gindala sang Yawa si Jesus sa Balaan nga Siyudad kag ginpatindog sa pinakamataas nga bahin sang templo, kag nagsiling ang Yawa sa iya, "Kon ikaw ang Anak sang Dios lukso ka paidalom, kay ang kasulatan nagasiling, 'Ang Dios magasugo sa iya mga anghel Sa pagbantay sa imo; Bayawon ka nila sa ila mga kamot Agod nga indi makasandad Ang imo mga tiil sa mga bato.' "

Si Jesus nagsabat, "Pero ang kasulatan nagasiling man, 'Indi mo pagsulayon ang Ginoo nga imo Dios.' "

Dason gindala pa gid sang Yawa si Jesus sa isa ka mataas nga bukid, kag ginpakita sa iya ang tanan nga mga ginharian sang kalibutan kag ang ila kadayawan.

Ang Yawa nagsiling, "Ini tanan ihatag ko sa imo kon magluhod ka kag magsimba sa akon."

Si Jesus nagsabat, "Palayo ka, Satanas! Ang kasulatan nagasiling, 'Magsimba ka sa Ginoo nga imo Dios, kag sia lamang ang imo alagaron!' "

Dayon ang Yawa nagbiya kay Jesus, kag ang mga anghel nag-abot kag nag-alagad sa iya. 

Prayers:

"Lord Jesus, your word is life and joy for me. Fill me with your Holy Spirit that I may have the strength and courage to embrace your will in all things and to renounce whatever is contrary to it."

***

Reflection of the Daily Gospel:

Are you ready to follow the Lord Jesus wherever he wishes to lead you? After Jesus' was baptized by John the Baptist at the River Jordan, he withdrew into the wilderness of Judea - a vast and mostly uninhabitable wilderness full of danger. Danger from scorching heat by day and extreme cold at night, danger from wild animals and scorpions, plus the deprivation of food and the scarcity of water.

Why did Jesus choose such a barren, lonely place for an intense and long period of sustained prayer and fasting? Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell us in their Gospel accounts that Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness. Mark states it most emphatically: "The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness" (Mark 1:12). What compelled Jesus to seek solitude, away from his family and friends, for such a lengthy period? Was it simply a test to prepare him for his mission? Or did Satan want to lure him into a trap? The word tempt in English usually means to entice someone to do what is wrong or forbidden. The scriptural word used here also means test in the sense of proving and purifying someone to see if there are ready for the task at hand. We test flight pilots to see if they are fit to fly under all conditions, including times of adverse turbulence, storms, and poor visibility. In like manner God tests his people to see if they are ready to follow and serve him without reservation or compromise.

Encountering God face to face

On many occasions God tested Abraham to prove his faith and to strengthen his hope in the promises that God made to him. Abraham obeyed willingly even when God asked him to sacrifice his only son Isaac, the son of promise. When the Israelites were sorely tested in Egypt for more than 400 years, they did not forget God. They kept God's word and remembered his promise to save them. When God called Moses to free the Israelites from captivity in Egypt, God led them into the wilderness to his holy mountain at Sinai. There Moses ascended the mountain and met with God face to face for 40 days in prayer and fasting (Exodus 24:18). The prophet Elijah was also led on a 40 day journey to the holy mountain at Sinai to seek the face of God. God sustained Elijah with bread from heaven (1 Kings 19:8).

Jesus was no exception to this pattern of testing and preparation with prayer and fasting. He was led into the wilderness for 40 days without food or shelter to seek the face of his heavenly Father. When God put Adam and Eve in the Garden of Paradise, he supplied them with everything they needed for abundant life and happiness with him. But when they listened to the voice of evil and followed the counsel of the serpent, who is the devil, they doubted God's word and disobeyed his command They fell because they trusted in themselves rather than in God (Genesis 2:16-17; 3:1-6). They were cast out of Paradise and driven into the wilderness. Jesus now freely enters the wilderness in order to regain Paradise for the lost children of God. Jesus refuses food to show his dependence on the bread of heaven, the word of God, that would sustain him not only in his physical hunger, but in his hour of temptation as well. When Satan tempts Jesus to turn stones into bread, Jesus replies with the words of Scripture, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (quote from Deuteronomy 8:3; Matthew 4:4). 

Where did Jesus find the strength to survive the desert's harsh conditions and the tempter's seduction? He fed on God's word and found strength in doing his Father's will. Satan will surely tempt us and he will try his best to get us to choose our will over God's will. If he can't make us renounce our faith or sin mortally, he will then try to get us to make choices that will lead us, little by little, away from what God wants for us.

Strength from God in resisting temptation

Jesus was tempted like us and he overcame sin not by his own human effort but by the grace and strength which his Father gave to him. He had to renounce his will for the will of his Father. He succeeded because he wanted to please his Father and he trusted that his Father would give him the strength to overcome the obstacles that stood in the way. Luke says that Jesus was "full of the Holy Spirit" (Luke 4:1). When tempted by the devil Jesus did not try to fight his adversary on his own human strength. He relied on the power which the Spirit gave him. Jesus came to overthrow the evil one who held us captive to sin and fear of death (Hebrews 2:14). His obedience to his Father's will and his willingness to embrace the cross reversed the curse of Adam's disobedience. His victory over sin and death won for us not only pardon for our sins but adoption as sons and daughters of God.

How can we overcome sin and gain freedom over our unruly desires and the lies of Satan and the world? The Lord Jesus gives us his Holy Spirit to help us in our weakness (Romans 8:26) and to be our guide and consoler in temptation and testing (1 Corinthians 10:13). The Lord gives grace to the humble who acknowledge their dependence on him (James 4:6) and he helps us to stand against the lies and attacks of our enemy, Satan, who seeks to destroy us (1 Peter 5:8-10; Ephesians 6:10-18). The Lord Jesus is ever ready to pour out his Spirit upon us that we may have the strength and courage we need to resist sin and to reject the lies and deceits of Satan. God wants us to "fight the good fight of the faith" (1 Timothy 6:12) with the power and strength which comes from the Holy Spirit. Do you rely on the Lord for your strength and help?