In the embrace of Renewed Faith:
The changed life of
Pastor Rubene Landilan
Meet Pastor Rubene Landilan, a dedicated community leader, and servant of the Lord. Hailing from Barangay Sagmone, Bayugan City, this 36-year-old is a testament to the power of redemption and the unwavering grace of God. Married with one child from a previous relationship, he currently leads a vibrant house church in Bayugan City while ministering to prisoners in Butuan City.
Rubene's early life was marred by the darkness of a violent household. In his teenage years, he miraculously survived a violent assault from his father, who struck his neck with a bolo. He believed that protective spirits had chosen him, granting him charms and amulets that shielded him from harm. This reputation led him down a path of troublemaking, with even the police fearing his audacity to confront anyone.
In Filipino culture, agimats are revered as mystical relics, believed to possess extraordinary powers and protect their bearers.
Due to his tumultuous upbringing, he found it easy to leave home and journey to Manila, where he would meet his first wife. They lived in the confines of her family's compound, subject to their judgments and authority. Rubene witnessed his wife suffering at the hands of her father, an act that triggered a transformation within him. His vision darkened as he intervened, confronting his father-in-law and two of his wife's brothers who had joined in the abuse. Tragically, the confrontation ended in the loss of three lives, forcing Rubene into hiding and, eventually, prison.
It was within the walls of incarceration that Rubene encountered a missionary who shared the gospel with him. Touched by the message, he made a life-altering decision to embrace Jesus. Seven years later, he was granted parole and chose to return to his roots in Mindanao.
It was within the walls of incarceration that Pastor Rubene made a life-altering decision to embrace Jesus.
His transformation from a feared troublemaker to a servant of the Lord has left many in disbelief. He's had to seek forgiveness from those who once plotted his demise. Rubene understands that judgment and skepticism linger, but he remains resolute, knowing that he, along with those who knew his past, requires an abundance of God's grace.
Pastor Rubene, transformed by faith, now sits among fellow Wycliffe Philippines Community Checkers, their radiant smiles a testament to the joy found in serving God's work.
Rubene's dedication to the Lord and his community finds expression in his tireless participation in the Bible translation project being done by Wycliffe Philippines in his community in Barangay Sagmone, Bayugan City, Butuan. Despite enduring physical and mental exhaustion, he perseveres, recognizing that this mission transcends his personal journey. He now devotes his life to serving the Lord and illuminating the path of redemption for others in their community.
In the midst of this powerful transformation, Rubene Landilan stands as a living testament to the miraculous grace of God. His story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, redemption is possible, and faith can guide us towards renewal and a life dedicated to serving others.