Jesus Is Coming Again

Scripture: At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Luke 21:27 (NIV)

Christmas is coming soon. It is easy to tell. We see the signs all around us. What are the signs? We see Christmas decorations in the stores and on houses, we hear Christmas songs on the radio, we see ads on television and in the newspapers. What if we didn’t have all of these things to remind us that Christmas is coming? How would we know? I guess we would just have to look at the calendar.

Two thousand years ago, there was no television or radio. There were no newspaper ads announcing that a child would be born and that he would be the Savior of the world. When Jesus was born, very few people even knew about it, but it was an event which God had promised and which had been foretold by prophets many years before. Many people had been looking forward to the coming of the Messiah, they just didn’t know exactly when he was coming.

This Sunday marks the beginning of a very special season called Advent. Do you know what Advent means? The dictionary says that advent is “the coming of something very important.” What is it? Is it Christmas? Yes, we are looking forward to that, but we are also looking forward to the coming of another very important event. The return of Jesus!

Jesus promised to come again. You won’t hear much about it on the television or radio and you won’t read much about it in the newspapers, but he promised he would return and we believe it! We look forward to it just as people two thousand years ago looked forward the the coming Messiah. We don’t know exactly when he will come, it isn’t marked on the calendar, but we are watching and waiting.

As we look prepare to celebrate the birthday of our Savior, let’s also be sure we are prepared for the day that he will come again.

Prayer: Dear Father, we thank you for this special time of year and what it means to us. We thank you for keeping your promise to send a Savior — and we thank you for the promise that he will come again. Amen.

“Madula Ang Langit Kag Ang Duta, Pero Ang Akon Mga Pulong Indi Gid Mahimo Nga Indi Matuman”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 21:20-28)

Dayon ginsugiran sila ni Jesus sini nga paanggid: “Tan-awa ninyo ang kahoy nga higera kag ang iban pa nga mga kahoy.

Indi bala nga kon makita ta nga nagapang-ugbos na nagasiling kita nga madali na lang ang tig-ilinit?

Sa amo man nga bagay, kon makita ninyo nga nagakalatabo na ini nga mga butang nga akon ginasugid sa inyo, mahibaluan ninyo nga malapit na ang paghari sang Dios.

Sa pagkamatuod, ini tanan nga mga butang magakalatuman sa wala pa mapatay ang mga tawo sa sini nga tiyempo.

Madula ang langit kag ang duta, pero ang akon mga pulong indi gid mahimo nga indi matuman.”

***

Meditation:

Do you recognize the signs of God’s presence and action today? Jesus used the image of a fig tree to teach his disciples an important lesson about reading the “signs of the times.” The fig tree was a common and important source of food for the Jews. It bore fruit twice a year, in the autumn and in the early spring. The Talmud said that the first fruit came the day after Passover. The Jews believed that when the Messiah came he would usher in the kingdom of God at Passover time. The early signs of a changing season, such as springtime, summer, or autumn, are evident for all who can see and observe the changes. Just so are the signs of God’s kingdom and his return in glory on the day of judgment. The “budding” of God’s kingdom begins first in the hearts of those who are receptive to God’s word. Those who trust in God’s word will bear the fruits of his kingdom. And what are the fruits of that kingdom? “The kingdom of God ..is righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). The Lord gives the firstfruits of his kingdom to those who open their hearts to him with expectant faith and trust in his word.

We do not know the day nor the hour when the Lord Jesus will return again in glory. But the Lord does give us signs, not only to “wake us up” as a warning, but also to “rouse our spirits” to be ready and eager to receive his kingdom when he comes in all his power and glory. The “Day of the Lord” will strike terror in those who have ignored or rejected God, but it will be a day of joy and rejoicing for those who long to see the Lord face-to-face. The Lord Jesus wants us to be filled with joyful anticipation for his coming again. While we wait for the Lord’s physical return in glory, we can know his presence with us through the work and action of the Holy Spirit who dwells in our hearts. The Lord Jesus comes daily and frequently to those who long for him and he speaks tenderly to our hearts like a lover who whispers in the ear of the beloved. He comes to show us the way to our heavenly Father and to give us the hope of eternal life. Do you recognize his presence and do you listen to his word?

“Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end of all history, and the lord of all creation. Give me joyful hope and assurance that I will see you face to face and be united with you forever when you return in glory.”

“Dayon Ako Nga Anak Sang Tawo Makita Sa Mga Panganod Nga Nagabalik Sa Kalibutan Nga May Gahom Nga Nagasilak Gid”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 21:20-28)

“Kon makita ninyo nga ang Jerusalem ginalibutan na sang mga soldado, mahibaluan ninyo nga madali na lang ang iya kalaglagan.

Gani ang nagaestar sa Judea dapat magpalagyo sa kabukiran. Kag ang yara sa siyudad sang Jerusalem magpalagyo man. Ang mga tawo sa uma dapat indi magsulod sa Jerusalem.

Kay amo na ina ang mga inadlaw nga silutan sang Dios ang Jerusalem sa pagtuman sang ginasiling sang Kasulatan.

Sa sina nga mga inadlaw makaluluoy ang mga nagabulusong kag ang mga nagapatiti tungod nga mabudlayan gid sila sa pagpalagyo. Dako nga pag-antos ang magaabot sa sini nga lugar, kay dako ang kaakig sang Dios sa sini nga mga tawo.

Ang iban sa ila magakalamatay sa gira, kag ang iban pagabihagon sa iban nga mga nasyon. Kag ini nga siyudad sang Jerusalem pagagub-on kag pagadumalahan sang mga indi Judio samtang ginatugutan sang Dios.”

“Matabo man nga may mga tanda nga makita sa adlaw, sa bulan, kag sa mga bituon. Diri sa kalibutan makulbaan ang mga nasyon tungod sang dalagko nga mga balod nga nagalinagumba.

Magakalalipong ang mga tawo sa kahadlok kon ano ang matabo sa sini nga kalibutan. Kay ang mga butang sa langit pagapatalangon sa ila kinaandan nga alagyan.

Dayon ako nga Anak sang Tawo makita sa mga panganod nga nagabalik sa kalibutan nga may gahom nga nagasilak gid.

Kon ini nga mga butang magasugod na nga magkalatabo, indi kamo magkahadlok kay madali na lang ang pagluwas sa inyo.”

***

Meditation:

Do you believe that the world as we know it is going to end just as Jesus foretold? Jesus’ prophetic description of the destruction of the holy city Jerusalem, the destruction of the world, and the day of final judgment, was not new to the people of Israel. The prophets had foretold these events many centuries before. Behold the day of the Lord comes, cruel, with wrath and fierce anger to make the earth a desolation and to destroy its sinners from it (Isaiah 13:9-13; see also  Joel 2:1-2; Amos 5:18-20; Zephaniah 1:14-18). Jesus warns of the imminent destruction of Jerusalem as a consequence of the rejection of the gospel. According the historian Josephus, over a million inhabitants died when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem with its temple in 70 A.D. Jerusalem’s vengeance resulted from her indifference to the visitation of God in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 19:44).

Jesus also speaks about the judgment at the end of the world. Only spiritual blindness can keep us from recognizing the obvious signs of approaching disaster which awaits the day of judgment for those who refuse to heed God’s word of grace and salvation. Jesus was completely honest. He told his disciples what it would cost to follow him. And he promised that he would never leave them alone, even in their time of tribulation. The saints and martyrs who underwent torment and death made their prisons a temple of praise and their scaffolds a throne to the glory of God. They knew the saving presence of Christ with them in all circumstances. Jesus offers us safety in the face of earth’s threats.  Not a hair of your head will perish (Luke 21:18). The disciple who walks with Christ may lose their body but not their soul.

The greatest gift which no one can take from us and which we can be most thankful for is our redemption through the precious blood of Jesus, which was shed on the cross for our sins, and our adoption through Christ as children of God our heavenly father. Jesus Christ has redeemed us from slavery to sin, from fear of death, and from final destruction. We can be eternally thankful because our hope is in heaven and in the promise that Jesus will return to fully establish his reign of peace and righteousness. Jesus speaks of his second coming as a known fact, a for certain event which we can confidently expect to take place in the Lord’s time of choosing. This coming will be marked by signs that all will recognize – signs which will strike terror and grief in those unprepared and wonder and joy in those who are ready to meet the Lord. When the Lord Jesus returns he will establish justice and righteousness and he will vindicate all who have been faithful to him. His judgment is a sign of hope for those who have placed their trust in him. Do you hope in God and in the promise of Christ to return again to establish his reign over all that he has made?

“Lord Jesus, fill me with gratitude for the gift of redemption and increase my hope and longing for your return again in glory. May that day bring joy to my heart rather than sorrow. Help me to serve you faithfully and to make the best use of my time now in the light of your coming again.”

“Ang Iban Sa Inyo Iakusar…Pero Indi Gid Kamo Maano”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 21:12-19)

“Pero sa wala pa ini matabo, pagadakpon kamo kag hingabuton sang mga tawo. Pagadalhon nila kamo sa mga simbahan sang mga Judio agod sentensyahan kag prisohon. Pagadalhon man nila kamo sa mga hari kag mga gobernador agod imbistigaron. Ini tanan himuon nila sa inyo tungod sang inyo pagsunod sa akon.

Pero ini mangin kahigayunan ninyo sa pagsugid sa ila sang Maayong Balita.

Gani itanom ninyo sa inyo hunahuna nga kon matabo ini, indi kamo magpalibog kon ano ang inyo isabat, kay hatagan ko kamo sang kaalam sa pagsabat agod indi makasabat batok sa inyo ang inyo mga kaaway.

Ang iban sa inyo iakusar mismo sang inyo mga ginikanan, mga utod, mga paryenti, kag sang inyo mga amigo. Kag ang iban sa inyo patyon gid nila.

Dumtan kamo sang tanan tungod kay kamo akon mga sumulunod.

Pero indi gid kamo maano.

Kay kon magpadayon kamo makaangkon kamo sang kabuhi nga wala sing katapusan.

***

Meditation:

If the gospel message is good news, then why do so many oppose it with hostility and even violence? Jesus warns his followers that they will be confronted with persecution, wickedness, false teaching, and temptation. The real enemy of the gospel is Satan whom Jesus calls a “murderer” and “father of lies” (John 8:44). Satan uses fear and hatred to provoke hostility in others towards those who follow Jesus Christ. And what is Jesus’ response to this hostility and opposition? Love, truth, and forgiveness. Only love can defeat prejudice, intollerance, hatred, and envy. God’s love purifies our hearts and minds of all that would divide and tear people apart. The truth is also essential for overcoming evil and tribulation in the world. Satan deceives and sin blinds the heart and mind. Only God’s truth can free us from error and spiritual blindness. The gospel is God’s word of truth and salvation. That is why Jesus tells his disciples to proclaim the gospel throughout the whole world (Mark 16:15), even in the midst of opposition and persecution.

Jesus tells his disciples that if they endure to the end they will gain their lives – they will see God’s salvation and inherit eternal life and happiness with God. Endurance is more than human effort and perseverance. It is a supernational gift of the Holy Spirit which enables us to bear up under any trial, temptation, and form of persecution. Endurance is strengthened with hope – the supernatural assurance that we will see God face to face and inherit all the promises he has made. Jesus is our supreme model and hero who endured the cross for our sake (Hebrews 12:2). “God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). Jesus willingly shed his blood for our sake and for our salvation and he calls us to lay down our lives for one another and to take up our cross in like manner (John 15:12-13; 1 John 3:16).

The word “martyr” in the New Testament Greek means “witness”. The Book of Revelations says that “Jesus was the faithful witness …who freed us from our sins by his blood” (Revelations 1:5). Tertullian, a second century lawyer who converted when he saw Christians singing as they went out to die by the hands of their persecutors, exclaimed: “The blood of the martyrs is seed.” Their blood is the seed of new Christians, the seed of the church. The third century bishop, Cyprian said: “When persecution comes, God’s soldiers are put to the test, and heaven is open to martyrs. We have not enlisted in an army to think of peace and to decline battle, for we see that the Lord has taken first place in the conflict.” True martyrs live and die as witnesses of the gospel. They overcome their enemies through persevering hope and courage, undying love and forebearance, kindness, goodness, and compassion.

St. Augustine of Hippo wrote, “The martyrs were bound, jailed, scourged, racked, burned, rent, butchered – and they multiplied!” Why is this the case? The Christian martyrs witnessed to the truth, joy, and freedom of the gospel, by their lives, their testimony, and by the shedding of their own blood for the name of Christ. Today we unfortunately witness many extremists and misguided individuals who will sacrifice their lives, and kill others in the process, out of hatred, revenge, prejudice, and envy. From a Christian point of view, they are not true martyrs because their sacrifice is not motivated by God’s merciful love and forgiveness, truth and righteousness.

True martyrs pray for their persecutors and love their enemies. In their suffering and in their death they witness the truth of the gospel – that “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Jesus gave his life for all who would accept him as their savior – whether Jew or Greek, Christian or Muslim, agnostic or atheist. Satan seeks to destroy our faith through the fear of death and he incites others to persecute Christians for their faith in Christ. Martyrs who shed their blood for Jesus Christ win great victory, not only for themselves, but for the whole people of God. The martyrs overcome Satan by enduring suffering and death through their faith in Christ who died and rose for us. And through their witness many others recognize the victory which Christ won on the cross. The martyrs witness to the truth – the truth of Jesus Christ and his power to overcome sin, fear, hatred, violence, and prejudice, and even death itself. What gives courage and confidence to the martyrs is the firm hope in the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life and and unending happiness with God.

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

“Lord Jesus Christ, by your atoning death on the cross you have redeemed the world. Fill me with joyful hope, courage, and boldness to witness the truth of your love for sinners and your victory over the powers of sin, Satan, and death.”

“Mag-andam Kamo Nga Indi Kamo Pagpatalangon”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 21:5-11)

May mga tawo didto nga nagasugilanon parte sa matahom nga mga bato kag sa mga ginregalo sang mga tawo nga nagpatahom sang templo. Pero nagsiling si Jesus sa ila, “Magaabot ang adlaw nga ang mga butang nga ini nga inyo nakita gub-on, kag wala gid sing may mabilin nga mga bato nga nagasalampaw.”

Nagpamangkot sila kay Jesus, “Manunudlo, san-o bala matabo ini nga mga butang? Ano bala ang mga tanda nga ini nga mga butang madali na lang matabo?”

Nagsiling si Jesus sa ila, “Mag-andam kamo nga indi kamo pagpatalangon. Kay madamo ang magaabot kag magasiling nga sila amo ako, kag magasiling man sila nga nag-abot na ang tion. Pero indi kamo magpati ukon magsunod sa ila.

Kon makabati kamo nga may mga gira kag mga ginamo, indi kamo magkahadlok, kay ina kinahanglan nga matabo anay, pero wala nagakahulugan nga magaabot na ang katapusan sang kalibutan.”

Kag nagsiling pa gid si Jesus sa ila, “Magailinaway ang mga nasyon kag magailinaway ang mga ginharian.

May magaabot nga mabaskog nga mga linog, kag may mga gutom kag mga pisti nga magaabot sa nagkalain-lain nga mga lugar. Kag makita man ninyo ang mga makahaladlok kag makatilingala nga mga tanda halin sa langit.

***

Meditation:

How would you respond if someone prophesied that your church or place of worship would be destroyed?  In 1972 a violent earthquake ripped through the center of Managua and destroyed the great cathedral church. This was only the beginning of the troubles for the tiny nation and Christian community of Nicaragua which suffered great turmoil and loss in the civil war that ensued for more than a decade. Out of the ashes of destruction and the ravages of communism has emerged a humbler and more purified church. Jesus foretold many signs of God’s action and judgment. To the great consternation of the Jews, Jesus prophesied the destruction of their temple at Jerusalem. The Jewish people took great pride in their temple, a marvel of the ancient world. The foretelling of this destruction was a dire judgment in itself. They sought Jesus for a sign that would indicate when this would occur. Jesus admonished them to not seek signs but rather to seek God’s kingdom. There will be plenty of signs – such as  wars, famines, diseases, tidal waves and earthquakes – pointing to God’s ultimate judgment.

Jesus’ prophecy is a two-edged sword, because it points not only to God’s judgment, but also to his saving action and mercy. Jesus foretells the destruction of Jerusalem and the dire consequences for all who would reject him and his saving message. While the destruction of Jerusalem’s temple was determined (it was razed by the Romans in 70 A.D.), there remained for its inhabitants a narrow open door leading to deliverance. Jesus says: “I am the door; whoever enters by me will be saved” (John 10:9).  Jesus willingly set his face toward Jerusalem, knowing that he would meet betrayal, rejection, and death on a cross. His death on the cross, however, brought about freedom, peace, and victory over sin and death – not only for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, but for all – both Jew and Gentile alike – who would accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Do you know the peace and security of a life submitted to the lordship of Jesus Christ?

An American judge, named Robert H. Bork, wrote a book a few decades ago entitled, Slouching Towards Gomorrah. His message sounded an alarm about the moral crisis and decay of culture which he saw in Western society. We often don’t recognize the moral crisis and spiritual conflict of our age, until something “shakes us up” to the reality of our present condition. The reward for doing what is right and just and the penalty for sin and wrong-doing are not always experienced in this life; but they are sure to come in the day of judgment. The Lord Jesus tells us that there will be persecution, suffering, and difficulties in this age until he comes again at the end of the world. God intends our anticipation of his final judgment to be a powerful deterrent to wrongdoing. God extends grace and mercy to all who will heed his call and his warning. Do you take advantage of this season of grace and mercy to seek God’s kingdom and to pursue his will?

“Lord Jesus, your grace and mercy abounds even in the midst of turmoil and destruction. Increase my hunger for your kingdom and help me to be faithful to your word. May nothing, not even the fear of death or the loss of all that I have, deter me from seeking you and the coming of your kingdom with hope and joy.”

“Ang Balo Bisan Imol Siya Ginhatag Niya Ang Tanan Nga Iya Ginasaligan Agod Mabuhi”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 21:1-4)

Sang ulihi nagpanan-aw tan-aw si Jesus kag nakita niya ang mga manggaranon nga nagabutang sang ila kuwarta sa ginahulugan sang mga halad.

Kag nakita man niya ang isa ka imol nga babayi nga balo nga naghulog sing duha lang ka sinsilyo.

Dayon nagsiling si Jesus, “Sa pagkamatuod, mas madamo ang ginhulog sang imol nga balo sang sa ila tanan.

Kay sila madamo ang ila kuwarta kag ang ila ginhatag bali-wala lang sa ila; pero ang balo, bisan imol siya, ginhatag niya ang tanan nga iya ginasaligan agod mabuhi.”

***

Meditation:

Do you know the joy of selfless giving and love for others? True love doesn’t calculate; it spends lavishly! Jesus drove this point home to his disciples while sitting in the temple and observing people offering their tithes. Jesus praised a poor widow who gave the smallest of coins in contrast with the rich who gave greater sums. How can someone in poverty give more than someone who has ample means? Jesus’ answer is very simple: love is more precious than gold or wealth! Jesus taught that real giving must come from the heart. A gift that is given with a grudge or for display loses its value. But a gift given out of love, with a spirit of generosity and sacrifice, is precious. The amount or size of the gift doesn’t matter as much as the cost to the giver. The poor widow could have kept one of her coins, but instead she recklessly gave away all she had! Jesus praised someone who gave barely a penny – how insignificant a sum – because it was everything she had, her whole living. What we have to offer may look very small and not worth much, but if we put all we have at the Lord’s disposal, no matter how insignificant it may seem, then God can do with it and with us what is beyond our reckoning. Do you give out of love and gratitude for what God has already given to you?

“Lord Jesus, your love knows no bounds and you give without measure. All that I have comes from you. May I give freely and generously in gratitude for all that you have given to me. Take my life and all that I possess – my gifts, talents, time and resources – and use them as you see fit for your glory.”

Crown Him King!

Scripture: “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” John 18:37 (NIV)

The crown is a symbol of power and authority. Who wears a crown? That’s right! A king or queen wears a crown. Being a king is different from being the president of a country. A president is elected by the people, but a king is is not elected, he is born to be king.

Have you seen the movie “Lion King?” As a lion, Simba was born to be the “King of the Beasts.” In one scene from the movie Simba sings, “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.” If you have seen the movie, you will remember that one reason why Simba was so anxious to become king was that he didn’t want anyone telling him what to do. He didn’t want to hear anyone saying, “do this” or “stop that.” He wanted to be free to run around all day doing everything his way.

It wasn’t just that Simba didn’t want anyone to tell him what to do, he was also looking forward to telling everyone else what to do. Just listen to what he says! “I’m gonna be a mighty king so enemies beware! I’m gonna be the mane event like no king was before. I’m brushing up on looking down. I’m working on my ROAR! Oh, I just can’t wait to be king!”

I think that Simba had a very poor idea of what it means to be a king. You see, the real role of a king is to look after the needs of his people. A good king is more concerned with caring for his people than he is in being served.

During his last days on earth, Jesus was arrested and put on trial. When asked if he was a king, Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world.” Yes, Jesus was a king, but he wasn’t interested in running around free and doing things his way. He was only interested in doing the will of his Father. He was born to be king, but his kingdom is not on this earth — it is in heaven. He only came to earth to make a way for us to live with him in heaven.

Jesus “Just can’t wait to be your king.” He has invited you to enjoy eternal life in his heavenly kingdom. If you haven’t already accepted his invitation, I hope you will crown him as your King today.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, we invite you to rule our hearts as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Amen.

“Nawili Ang Mga Tawo Sa Pagpamati Sang Iya Mga Pagpanudlo”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 19:45-48)

Pag-abot nila sa Jerusalem, nagderetso dayon si Jesus sa templo, kag pagsulod niya didto gintabog niya ang mga nagabaligya.

Nagsiling siya sa ila, “Nagasiling ang Dios sa Kasulatan, ‘Ang akon balay lugar nga palangamuyuan.’ Pero ginhimo ninyo ini nga palanaguan sang mga tulisan.”

Halin sadto, nagatudlo siya sa templo adlaw-adlaw. Ang manugdumala nga mga pari, ang mga manunudlo sang Kasuguan, kag ang mga opisyal sang banwa nagtinguha sa pagpatay sa iya.

Pero wala sila sing kahigayunan sa paghimo sini tungod kay nawili ang mga tawo sa pagpamati sang iya mga pagpanudlo.

***

Meditation:

Why did Jesus drive out the money changers in the temple at Jerusalem? Was he upset with their greediness? This is the only incident in the Gospels where we see Jesus using physical force. Jesus went to Jerusalem, knowing he would meet certain death on the cross, but victory as well for our sake. His act of judgment in the temple is meant to be a prophetic sign and warning to the people that God takes our worship very seriously. In this incident we see Jesus’ startling and swift action in cleansing the temple of those who were using it to exploit the worshipers of God. The money changers took advantage of the poor and forced them to pay many times more than was right – in the house of God no less! Their robbery of the poor was not only dishonoring to God but unjust toward their neighbor. In justification for his audacious action Jesus quotes from the prophets Isaiah (Isaiah 56:7) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 7:11). His act of judgment aims to purify the worship of God’s people and to discipline their erring ways. Despite the objections of the religious leaders, no doubt because Jesus was usurping their authority in the house of God, the people who listened to Jesus teaching daily in the temple regarded him with great awe and respect. Luke tells us that “they hung upon Jesus’ words” (Luke 19:48). How hungry are you for God’s word?

If we approach God’s word with a humble attentive heart and with a willingness to be taught by the Lord, then we are in a good place to allow God’s word to change and transform us in the likeness of Christ. The Lord wants to teach us his ways so that we may grow in holiness. The Lord both instructs and disciplines us in love to lead us from the error of our sinful ways to his truth and justice. “God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness” (Hebrews 12:10). The Lord calls us to be a holy people who worship him with reverence and gratitude for his great mercy and kindness towards us. Do you allow God’s word to transform you in his way of love and holiness?

“Lord Jesus, you open wide the door of your house and you bid us to enter confidently that we may worship you in spirit and truth. Help me to draw near to you with gratitude and joy for your great mercy. May I always revere your word and give you acceptable praise and worship.”

“Wala Ninyo Pagsapaka Ang Tion Nga Luwason Na Kuntani Kamo Sang Dios”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 19:41-44)

Sang malapit na si Jesus sa siyudad sang Jerusalem, kag sang makita niya ini, naghibi siya.

Nagsiling siya, “Kuntani nahibaluan ninyo karon nga adlaw kon ano ang makahatag sa inyo sang kalinong! Ugaling nalipdan ang inyo pag-intiendi.

Magaabot ang adlaw nga ang inyo siyudad libutan sang mga sagang sang inyo mga kaaway agod indi na gid kamo makapalagyo, kag kibunon nila kamo sa tanan nga dereksyon.

Pamatyon nila kamo, kag gub-on ang inyo siyudad nga wala na gid sang may mabilin nga mga bato nga nagasalampaw. Ini tanan matabo sa inyo tungod nga wala ninyo pagsapaka ang tion nga luwason na kuntani kamo sang Dios.”

***

Meditation:

What is the enemy of peace in our homes, cities, and nations and what keeps us from a good relationship with God and with our neighbor? When Jesus approached the city of Jerusalem he wept over it because it inhabitants did not “know the things that make for peace” (Luke 19:42). Jesus fulfills the beatitude for those who weep and for those who make peace – “blessed are those who mourn …blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:4,9). That is why Jesus went to Jerusalem to be crucified not only for the sins of its inhabitants but to reconcile the whole world – all who have sinned – with God. Mourning and weeping over sin and unfaithfulness leads to true peace and reconciliation not only with God but with our neighbor as well. Do you know the peace which makes for lasting friendship, joy, and unity?

Jesus’ earthly ministry centers and culminates in Jerusalem, which scripture describes as the holy city, the throne of the Lord (Jeremiah 3:17);and the place which God chose for his name to dwell there (1Kings 11:13; 2 Kings 21:4; 2 Kings 23:27); and the holy mountain upon which God has set his king (Psalm 2:6). Jerusalem derives its name from the word “salem” which mean “peace”. The temple in Jerusalem was a constant reminder to the people of God’s presence with them.

Why does Jesus weep and lament for this city? It’s inhabitants had rejected the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord because of their pride and unbelief. Now they refuse to listen to Jesus who comes as their Messiah – whom God has anointed to be their Savior and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem was a gracious visitation of God’s anointed King to his holy city. Jerusalem’s lack of faith and rejection of the Messiah, however, leads to its devastation and destruction. Jesus’ lamentation and prophecy echoes the lamentation of Jeremiah who prophesied the first destruction of Jerusalem and its temple. Jeremiah’s lamentation offered hope of deliverance and restoration: “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies are new every morning …For the Lord will not cast off for ever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the sons of men” (Lamentations 3:21-22, 31-32). Jesus is the hope of the world because he is the only one who can truly reconcile us with God and with one another. Through his death and resurrection Jesus breaks down the walls of hostility and division by reconciling us with God. He gives us his Holy Spirit both to purify us and restore us as a holy people of God. Through Christ we become living temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).  God has visited his people in the past and he continues to visit us through the gift and working of his Holy Spirit. Do you recognize God’s gracious visitation today?

When God visits his people he comes to establish peace and justice by rooting out our enemies – sin and Satan who enslave us to fear and pride, rebellion and hatred, envy and covetousness, strife and violence, and every form of evil. That is why God both judges and purifies his people – to lead us from our sinful ways to his way of justice, peace, love, and holiness. God actively works among his people to teach us his ways and to save us from the destruction of sin and Satan. Are God’s judgments unjust or unloving? Scripture tells us that “when God’s judgments are revealed in the earth, the inhabitants of the world learn righteousness” (Isaiah 26:9). To pronounce judgment on sin is much less harsh than what will happen if those who sin are not warned to repent. The Lord in his mercy gives us grace and time to turn away from sin, but that time is right now. If we delay, even for a moment, we may discover that grace has passed us by and our time is up. Do you accept the grace to turn away from sin and to walk in God’s way of peace and holiness?

“Lord Jesus, you have visited and redeemed your people. May I not miss the grace of your visitation today as you move to bring your people into greater righteousness and holiness of life. Purify my heart and mind that I may I understand your ways and conform my life more fully to your will.”

“Parte Sa Sadto Nga Mga Tawo Nga Nagakontra Sa Akon Kag Indi Gusto Nga Maghari Ako Sa Ila”

Ebanghelyo subong nga Adlaw (Lucas 19:11-28)

Samtang nagapamati pa ang mga tawo, ginsugiran sila ni Jesus sang paanggid tungod kay malapit na sila sa Jerusalem kag ang hunahuna sang mga tawo masugod na gid ang paghari sang Dios.

Nagsiling si Jesus sa ila, “May isa ka dungganon nga tawo nga naglakat sa malayo nga lugar sa pagbaton sang awtoridad bilang hari sa iya lugar, kag magabalik man siya dayon.

Pero sa wala pa siya makahalin ginpatawag niya ang iya napulo ka mga suluguon kag ginpanghatagan ang kada isa sa ila sang palareho nga kantidad sang kuwarta, kag nagsiling siya sa ila, ‘Gamita ninyo sa negosyo ang akon ginhatag sa inyo samtang wala ako.’

“Karon, ang iya mga kasimanwa wala naluyag sa iya. Gani sang nakahalin na siya, nagpadala sila sing mga representante sa ginkadtuan niya sa pagsiling nga indi nila gusto nga maghari siya sa ila.

Pero ginhimo man siya gihapon nga hari. Pagbalik niya sa iya lugar, ginpatawag niya ang mga suluguon nga iya ginpanghatagan sang kuwarta nga inegosyo, agod mahibaluan niya kon pila ang ila naganansya.

Ang premiro nga nag-abot nagsiling sa iya, ‘Sir, ang imo kuwarta nga ginhatag sa akon nakaganansya sang napulo ka pilo.’

Nagsiling ang hari, ‘Maayo gid! Maayo ka nga suluguon. Tungod nga masaligan ka sa diutay nga butang, padumalahon ko ikaw sa napulo ka siyudad.’

Ang ikaduha nga suluguon nag-abot man kag nagsiling, ‘Sir, ang imo kuwarta nga ginhatag sa akon nakaganansya sing lima ka pilo.’

Nagsabat ang hari sa iya, ‘Padumalahon ko ikaw sa lima ka siyudad.’

Kag nag-abot ang isa pa gid kag nagsiling, ‘Sir, yari ang imo kuwarta. Ginputos ko gid ini kag gintago, kay nahadlok ako sa imo tungod masyado ka kaestrikto. Nagakuha ka sang ganansya sa kinabudlayan sang iban, kag nagakuha ka man sang patubas bisan indi ka ang nagtanom.’

Nagsiling ang hari sa iya, ‘Wala ka sing pulos nga suluguon! Ang imo ginhambal amo mismo ang akon gamiton sa pagsentensya sa imo. Nahibaluan mo nga estrikto ako kag nagakuha sang ganansya sa kinabudlayan sang iban, kag nagakuha man ako sang patubas bisan indi ako ang nagtanom.

Ti ngaa wala mo pag-ibutang ang akon kuwarta sa bangko agod sa akon pagbalik makuha ko ang akon kuwarta nga may saka pa?’

Kag nagsiling ang hari sa mga tawo nga nagatindog didto, ‘Kuhaa ninyo sa iya ang kuwarta kag ihatag sa tawo nga nakaganansya sing napulo ka pilo.’

Pero nagsabat sila, ‘Sir, may napulo na siya ka pilo.’

Nagsabat ang hari, ‘Sugiran ko kamo, ang bisan sin-o nga may yara hatagan pa. Pero ang wala iya, bisan ang diutay nga sa iya kuhaon pa.

Kon parte sa sadto nga mga tawo nga nagakontra sa akon kag indi gusto nga maghari ako sa ila, dalha ninyo sila diri sa akon kag pamatyon!’ “

Pagkatapos niya hambal sadto, nagpadayon sila ni Jesus sa paglakat pakadto sa Jerusalem.

***

Meditation:

How does God establish his kingdom here on the earth? The Jews in Jesus’ time had a heightened sense that the Messiah would appear soon to usher in the kingdom of God’s justice, love, and peace on the earth (Isaiah 11:1-9). Jesus, in fact, spoke in messianic terms of the coming reign of God. Perhaps his entry into Jerusalem would bring about such a change and overthrow of Roman domination. Jesus speaks to their longing for a new kingdom in the parable of a nobleman who went away to receive a kingdom. The parable reveals something important about how God works his plan and purpose with the human race. The parable speaks first of the king’s trust in his subjects. While he goes away he leaves them with his money to use as they think best. While there were no strings attached, this was obviously a test to see if the king’s subjects would be faithful and reliable in their use of the money entrusted to them. Third, the king rewards those who are faithful and he punishes those who sit by idly and who do nothing with his money.

The Lord Jesus offers us a kingdom of justice, love, and peace and he calls us to live as citizens of this kingdom where he rules as Lord and Master. Through his atoning death on the cross and through his resurrection victory, Jesus frees us from a kingdom of darkness where sin and Satan reign. Through the power of the Holy Spirit the Lord gives us freedom to live as his servants and to lay down our lives in loving service of our neighbors (Galatians 5:1,13). The Lord entrusts us with his gifts and graces and he gives us freedom to use them as we think best. With each gift and talent, the Lord gives sufficient grace and strength for using them in a fitting way. As the parable of the talents shows, God abhors indifference and an attitude that says it’s not worth trying. God honors those who use their talents and gifts for doing good. Those who are faithful with even a little are entrusted with more! But those who neglect or squander what God has entrusted to them will lose what they have. There is an important lesson here for us. No one can stand still for long in the Christian life. We either get more or we lose what we have. We either advance towards God or we slip back. Do you trust in God’s grace to make good use of the gifts and talents he has given you?

“Lord Jesus, be the ruler of my heart and mind and the master of my home and goods. Fill me with a generous and wise spirit that I may use the gifts, talents, time, and resources you give me for your glory and your kingdom.”