"Happy first day of Simbang Gabi! As we begin this novena, our three words are Sincerity , Service , and Salvation . Let us look at Sin...
"Happy first day of Simbang Gabi! As we begin this novena, our three words are Sincerity, Service, and Salvation.
Let us look at Sincerity. In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells the story of two sons. One said 'yes' but did nothing. The other said 'no' but eventually did the work. God is not impressed by our empty 'yeses'—the prayers we say but don't mean, or the promises we make but break. He values sincerity. This Simbang Gabi, do not just attend mass for the 'panata' (vow) or the bibingka; attend with a sincere heart that is ready to change.
Next is Service. The vineyard in the parable represents the world where we are called to work. The readings from Zephaniah speak of a 'humble and lowly people' who take refuge in the Lord. True service is humility. It is better to be the son who struggles with his faith but eventually serves the poor and helps his neighbor, than to be the one who looks holy on the outside but refuses to get his hands dirty in the vineyard of the Lord.
Finally, Salvation. Jesus drops a bombshell: 'Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you.' Why? Because they recognized their need for salvation. They didn't pretend to be perfect. As we walk this nine-day journey to Christmas, let us admit our need for Jesus. Salvation comes to those who are real, those who are humble, and those who eventually say 'yes' with their actions, not just their lips."
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