As parents, Joseph and Mary, took their Child to the Temple for the consecration

Gospel Thoughts

*Christmas Season : Feast of the Holy Family*

*GOSPEL - Luke 2:22-40*

*First Reading - Sir 3:2-7, 12-14 or Gen 15:1-6; 21:1-3*

*Second Reading - Col 3:12-21 or 3:12-17 or Heb 11:8, 11-12, 17-18*

*As parents Joseph and Mary, took their Child to the Temple for the consecration*

*1) The first things that was done by Joseph and Mary was  the Child's Consecration*

Soon after the purification, the first thing, as it is reported in the Gospel, that was done by Joseph and Mary, the consecration of the child in the Temple 

Since it was the first thing that was done by Joseph and Mary, definitely it has its own significance and importance. This can be understood in the following way 

*A) Parents recognise that the child/new life is God's gift*

The very fact that the child is consecrated in the temple by the parents, shows that, the parents recognise the Gods miracle in their life, in the form of new life 

In fact new life is Gods great gift and we need to be thankful for the same

*B) Parents wish and ask for a special blessing from God*

When parents offer their child in the temple they also wish and pray for Gods special blessing upon the Lord

So this is also the reason why parents offer their child in the temple.

*C) Parents wish to begin the faith journey of the child from the Holy Place - Temple*

This is also another reason why parents offer their child in the temple, before they start anything else in their life. 

Temple is the best place to start the faith journey of the child, since it is the place of Gods presence and where we have deeper God experience.

*D) Temple plays a very important role in the life of the Person*

In fact many of the major events of ones life take place in the temple.

All the sacraments we receive in the temple and it is the place of constant visit by a person for the spiritual nourishment. 

The beginning of faith life (Baptism) and final journey of life (Death) take place in the temple. 

Final we are laid to eternal rest, near the temple (Most of the cemeteries are very close to the church). 

*E) Offering in the Temple creates a positive feeling towards life*

When a child is offered in the temple, automatically a kind of positive feeling is being created towards the life of the new born child 

It gives a kind of fulfillment that the child will be protected, blessed and guided by the Lord in evey situation.

It also helps us to develop a feeling that the consecrated child is holy and the child has special spiritual powers, to fight against the devil. 

*F) Its a sign that parents are even ready to offer their child for God's mission*

By this act, parents also show their willingness to offer their child for the spread of the kingdom of God.

*G) Consecration also increases the responsibility of both -  the parents and the Child*

Parents to give their best guidance in order to facilitate the spiritual growth of the child and the  child to imbibe the spirit of Christian spirituality and to grow accordingly

*2) As parents we need to realise the above facts in the lives of our children*

The primary duty of the parents to realise the importance of the aspect of consecration and its effects in the life of the Children. 

By all means the consecration has some positive effects on the life of the children. 

*3) As God's Children we need to offer ourselves evey day to God*

All of us are the children of God, and we need to understand the importance of the offering of ourselves everyday to God. 

When we offer ourselves we become more holy and we show our willingness to offer ourselves to work for the Lord. 

*4) Holy Family is our Model*

Model for offering the child to the temple

Model for carrying out the duties and responsibilities of the parents 

Model for knowing the responsible parenthood

Model for upbringing a Holy family

Model for facing all kinds of challenges and problems of Family life. 

*Wish you a Happy Feast of the Holy Family*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Christmas is the feast of Joy and Happiness and also the event of Persecution

Gospel Thoughts

*Christmas Season :   26th December*

*Martyrdom of St Steephan*

*GOSPEL - Mt 10:17-22*

*First Reading - Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59*

*Christmas is the feast of Joy and Happiness and also the event of Persecution*

*1) Christmas also Starts with persecution*

First of all we celebrate the joy and happiness with the birth of Jesus. At the same on the other side the persecution also starts

There is a group of people who were upset with the birth of Jesus. Herod and entire his household became very upset with the birth of Jesus 

The outcome of this the persecution and the killing of the infants 

So with the birth of Jesus there also starts the persecution

*2) Immediately after Christmas, Stephan is persecuted and martyred*

Immediately within 24 hours of the birth of Jesus we have the event of the persecution of Stephan and his martyrdom. 

On the day of Christmas we celebrate the birth and happiness of Jesus 

On the following day the martyrdom. This persecution and the martyrdom for the sake of Jesus and for the name of Jesus 

So once again the persecution is meditated immediately after the birth of Jesus 

*3) Holy innocents, Martyrs - 28th December*

On the 28th, it means after two days of the birth of Jesus we have the martyrdom of the Holy innocent children.

This also comes during the Christmas season. Once again we are reflecting the most violent persecution and the martyrdom, because this time it is the defenseless infants who were martyred for the sake of Christ.

*4) Jesus and Cross can't be separated*

It is very clear that Jesus and Cross can not be separated

Wherever there is Jesus there is Cross and wherever there is Cross there is Jesus 

Cross, is the part of Jesus mission. So also persecution is also the part of His mission. 

There is close connection between Jesus and persecution. 

*5) Why Christmas Joy comes along with persecution?*

There is a specific reason why we have to reflect the persecution during the Christmas season 

This is because, there is no way, through which one can avoid persecution for the sake of Jesus 

Even when we celebrate the most Happiest and joyous event of the Birth of Jesus, we need to keep it in mind the most important aspect of the persecution. 

That's why the theme of persecution comes even in the season of Christmas

*6) Today also the same logic follows*

Persecution, which started during the time of the birth of Jesus, still continues for the sake of Jesus and for the name of Jesus

So the fact is very clear that one can't escape from the persecution at any cost. 

So persecutions are the part of life and even today many are persecuted for the sake of Jesus and for the name of Jesus 

*7) What is my opinion about persecution for the sake of Jesus*

Am I convinced about this fact? 

Am I ready to undergo or face persecution for the sake of Jesus? 

What is my understanding about undergoing persecution for the sake of Jesus? 

Think about it

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Like Christmas Star we need to proclaim the good news of the Birth of Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

*Christmas*

*GOSPEL - Luke 1:1-14*

*First Reading -Isaiah 9:1-6*

*Second Reading - Titus 2:11-14*

*Like Christmas Star we need to proclaim the good news of the Birth of Jesus*

*1) At the Birth of Jesus the star appeared*

There was a star in the sky which appeared for a special purpose. The purpose is to proclaim the good news of the birth of Jesus

*2) Star gave the message to the Magi*

The star gave a powerful message to the magi, who came from the East. 

The magi belong to the wise class of people. Their wisdom was great 

Like star we need to become like instruments to communicate the powerful message to the wise and intelligent people, in an arround us

*3) Star showed the way to the magi*

It is the Star which showed the way to the magi.

It is through the guidance of the star, those magis found their way to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born 

*4) Star shines in the darkness*

The star, which shines in the darkness looks very beautiful

Such stars are very attractive and people like to look at such stars

*5) Christmas Star disappeared from Herod and from his people*

The star never became a part of the wicked group

Since star has the purpose of proclaiming the good news it can't take part in wicked things 

When such situation came the star disappeared from the sight of Herod and his people 

Never to become the part of wicked things 

*6) Star stood where Jesus was there*

The star is always found with Jesus and it stood where Jesus was 

It didn't go away from Jesus. Being with Jesus is very important

Stay with Jesus at all times 

*7) Will I become a Christmas Star?*

We have been called upon to become the Christmas stars 

Am I ready? 

Is my life like a Christmas star? 

*Think about it*

*❤️Wish you a happy and Joyful Christmas❤️*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Knowledge of Salvation and Forgiveness of Sins

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 4th Week -  Thursday

GOSPEL - Lk 1:67-79

*First Reading - 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16*

*Knowledge of Salvation and Forgiveness of Sins*

*To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.*

*1) Knowledge of Salvation*

We speak about variety of  knowledge in our day today life. 

One of the main aims of our life is to acquire knowledge, in order to succeed in life. 

For acquiring knowledge we go through lots of struggles and with the intention of becoming great persons in the world we try our level best to acquire knowledge

*But have we ever thought of knowledge of salvation in our lives?*

*2) The ultimate purpose of our life is to attain salvation*

Every day in our spiritual life we think of our life's goal as salvation. If so how to attain the salvation. 

Even to attain salvation, we need to know the way of attaining it. Any knowledge, which helps us to know about the concept of salvation and attaining of it can be regarded as the *Knowledge of salvation*

So realising that there is a *knowledge pertaining to salvation* and all of us should have this knowledge in order to achieve the purpose of our life. 

*3) Forgiveness is one of the main ways of attaining salvation and the knowledge of salvation*

This comes as a prophecy from the mouth of Zechariah. 

Prophet and prophecy always has a direct reference to God. On behalf of God, a prophet speaks. 

*To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.* this is the prophecy

In this prophecy the *knowledge of salvation* and the *forgiveness of sins* are highlighted

*4) Knowing the importance of Forgiveness is a great knowledge of salvation*

Forgives is the direct way to salvation. 

It is the direct root to salvation and to Heaven 

Ultimately *Forgiveness* from the Lord will make us to enter into heaven and nothing else. 

The final judgement will conclude, with the forgiveness. In other words there is nothing beyond *Forgiveness* in the journey towards salvation or to heaven 

So a person knows about the importance of forgiveness and its role in the salvation, is the highest form of knowledge, which will save a person from eternal  destruction 

*5) Jesus came to this earth to Forgive*

The main purpose of incarnation of Jesus is to forgive the human kind and to save them from the slavery of sin and death. 

*Forgiveness* was the only way through which God saved this world and entire human kind. 

*6) Forgiveness was one of the main themes of Jesus' Preaching*

Jesus began His ministry with the message of forgiveness

*The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news* Mark 1:15

Jesus concludes His mission with forgiveness 

Receive the Holy Spirit and  *If you forgive anyone's sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven* John 20:23.

It was one of the main themes in the public ministry of Jesus 

So having the knowledge of forgiveness is the the greatest *knowledge of Salvation*

*7) Efforts are needed to attain the knowledge of Salvation*

Unlike any other knowledge, which can be attained through the books, the knowledge of forgiveness can be attained only when we are ready to practice the concept of forgiveness in our day today life. 

Of course the scriptures will help us know the importance, need  and the greatness of forgiveness in our journey towards salvation, but it can become effective only when we are ready to practice it in our life. 

Mere having knowledge with out having any practical implication will be useless knowledge. Such knowledge will not help us in any way 

*8) Am I ready to attain and use the knowledge of Salvation, through forgiveness?*

It is a biggest challenge, never the less, it is not impossible

There is no other way to salvation, without forgiveness. 

Having this knowledge of salvation is the greatest treasure, which will make our lives Holy and Blessed. 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The need and necessity of taking the great things into ones heart

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 4th Week - Wednesday

GOSPEL - Lk 1:57-66

First Reading - Mal 3:1-4, 23-24

The need and necessity of taking the great things into ones heart

*All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?*

*1) Difference between Heart and Mind*

Heart and Mind are the two important faculties of Human beings

Both are necessary to have a deeper and balanced view of something in our day today life. 

Mind works on reason and logic. Where as heart work on feelings and emotions. 

In any situation Heart has preference over the mind. There are common expressions which highlight the importance of the heart 

Usually people say, here is a person with Heart, but we hardly hear about a person with mind. 

*2)  The distance between Mind and Heart*

*The longest journey you will ever take is the 18 inches from your head to your heart.” —Andrew Bennett*

The above quote tells us how difficult to travel from mind to Heart. 

Its easy to reason out something. But it is difficult to bring the matter to the heart and to feel for it.

One who really covers the distance from mind to heart will be a great person. Such a person is called the person with heart, a human person, and a person who has a golden heart.

*3) Taking something into heart means Total involvement*

The event of the birth of John the Baptist and His naming ceremony became a special event 

All the relatives and neighbors not only came but they rejoiced over the incident and they took this event and the joy of the event to their heart. 

This becomes possible only when the person is fully involved in the event and the event becomes very dear to him/her

So taking something into heart means the total involvement of the person into the situation

*4) A person who takes something into his/her heart can't remain silent*

The capacity of the heart is so great, once something goes there, it does not allow the person to remain silent

It always motivates the person to do something in a practical level. 

So persons of heart are those who do something at the practical level, which in turn help many others 

*5) Jesus was the person of Heart*

In the Gospel there are many references to the heart of Jesus and goes about a person who has a heart more than anything else.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29

My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. Mark 8:2

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. John 14:1

So there are many references to the heart than the mind. 

Because heart has a special place, when it comes to knowing something and doing at the practical level.

*6) Mary pondered the things in her heart*

Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19

Mother Mary took all those things which the mind could not understand

By taking her those things into her heart, she accepted the will of God, and gradually understood God's plan for her.

*7) Taking something to heart is the sign of total acceptance*

By taking all those things Mary accepted God's will and she offered herself to God's service. 

This is also the sign of humility and allowing oneself for the service of others 

*8) We are called upon to become the persons of Heart*

When a person is referred as the person of heart, the humane quality of the person is highlighted

The quality of compassion, feeling for the other, sympathy, being one with the suffering, identifying oneself with those who are undergoing various crisis and other problems

Jesus being the person of Heart, healed many sick people, had compassion for the people and even cried at the death of Lazarus and also for the destruction of Jerusalem

*9) Am I a person of the Heart? 

Is my mind dominating too much, which does not allow me to become to person of the heart? 

Am I struck in the journey from mind to heart? 

Christianity primarily is the religion of heart, which enables one to serve the least and the lost one 

Christmas is the event of the celebration of the Heart ❤️, which is the symbol of Love - celebration of the Heart/Love of the Father 

*Am I a person of Heart???*

*God bless you and your family. Praying you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Almighty's great things in the life of Mother Mary

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 4th Week - Tuesday

GOSPEL Lk 1:46-56

First Reading - 1 Sam 1:24-28

Almighty's great things in the life of Mother Mary

*The Almighty has done great things for me*

When Mary Proclaims this fact, in her magnificat, we can recall the following things as God's mighty deeds in the life of Mother Mary

*1) Immaculate Conception of Mary*

In this history of human kind for the first time we hear about the  concept of Immaculate conception.

This particular concept applies only to Mary, in the normal circumstances of the birth of a Child. 

Immaculate conception is not an ordinary thing.  It is an extraordinary things, which could happen only with the intervention of the Lord

So we can conclude that, this is one of the mighty deeds of the Almighty in the life of Mary

*2) Angel Gabriel's visit*

Among the women, it is only in the Life of Mary, we see a live conversation of an Angel, who always serves at the throne of God in heaven

Having a vision/live conversation with the Angel, is not an ordinary thing. It is something special and for some special purpose

So this is also a mighty works of the Lord in the life of Mother Mary

*3) Mary - Full of Grace*

This is the salutations of the Angel. 

These words are not uttered by any human being, but by an angel, who serves at the command of the Lord

Having full grace means, the perfection of purity, even she is in the form of Human nature. 

This is possible only because of God. So this is another mighty deed of the Lord, in Marys life. 

*4) Mary -Blessed among all women*

This is a special honor given to Mary by the Lord. 

To become blessed means, to become most Holy, to have a perfect disposition for the will of God, and to become a great model for rest of the human beings. 

This is the great and mighty deed of the Lord in the life of Mother Mary. 

*5) The opportunity to become the Mother of God*

There is no highest achievement in life other than this. 

To become the Mother of God, that too, through the powerful intercession of the Holy Spirit, once again a mighty deed of the Lord in the life of Mother Mary.

*6) All generations will call Mary as Blessed*

Mary is blessed not only for one day, or few years or only during the time of Jesus

She is blessed for all generations, for the ages to come and for eternity

What a wonder  to see some one as blessed to eternity. Once again God's mighty deeds in the life of Mary 

*7) Mary - Within no time accepted the plan of God, and offered herself*

There wasn't delay in giving a positive response to God

Her *Yes* comes quickly, after clarifying the initial doubts

The way she said *Yes* to the Lord, really has lots of things, unsolved problems and risk for life

Still she says *Yes*. That is a wonder and nothing less than a mighty deed of the Lord. 

*8) The choice of Mary, for the Great task*

Mary was chosen by God to accomplish His mighty works. 

Gods mighty works are accomplished in and through Mary.

Once again this is a mighty deed of the Lord. 

*9) Marys capacity to endure the sufferings and to face the various challenges*

She is the one who faced all kinds of sufferings. Yet she didn't lose her hope and courage. 

She had very great challenges like, conception through the Holy Spirit, the passion, death of Jesus on the Cross. Yet she reminded faithful 

Another mighty deed of the Lord. 

*10) There is nothing negative, which can be said about Mary*

We have something negative to say about every apostle of Jesus. 

But when it comes to Mary, we have hardly anything negative to say or speak about Mary

What a wonder about Marys life. 

Mighty work of the Lord

*11)  Numerous apparitions of Mary*

We have number of apparitions of Mary in the Human History. 

There is no person like Mary who appeared so many times, time and again to help the Human beings from their sin and slavery.

Once again Her apparitions are nothing but the mighty deeds of the Lord. 

*12) Will I be able to locate at least five mighty deeds of the Lord in my Life?*

Think about it. 

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Mary, Jesus in her Womb, is coming to my House to greet me. What is my response?

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 4th Week - Monday

GOSPEL Lk 1:39-45

First Reading - Sg 2:8-14

*Mary, Jesus in her Womb, is coming to my House to greet me. What is my response?*

*1) Mary Visited Elizabeth - we need to see the things happened during the visit*

*A) Elizabeth realised the greatness of Mary*

As soon as Mary entered the house of Elizabeth, Elizabeth could realise the greatness of Mary. 

She knew that Mary was not an ordinary woman, but an extraordinary woman 

Accordingly she is able to welcome Mary with great reverence

*B) Blessed are you among women*

This is how Elizabeth proclaims the greatness of Mary, with whom the saviour of the world is Found 

*C) Blessed is the fruit of Your Womb*

Elizabeth realised not only the greatness of Mary, but also could realise the greatness of the Savoir in her womb

*D) Infant leaped in Elizabeth's Womb*

This shows the whole involvement of Elizabeth and the fruit of her Womb (John the Baptist) in receiving Mary and Jesus

This also shows the power and influence of Mary on the one had and the openness of Elizabeth to receive Mary in her life. 

*E) How does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?*

This shows that the visit of Mary was the greatest thing that would take place in the life of Elizabeth

Elizabeth feels that she is not worthy of this visit, yet she sees this event as God's providence in her life. 

*F) Marys visit brought about a great change in the life of Elizabeth*

This fact we can see from today's Gospel. 

So the visit of Mary is very important event in the life of Elizabeth. 

*2) What is My reaction, if Mary comes with Jesus to my Life? 

*A) Will my heart leap with Joy?*

*B) Will I be able to see and realise the greatness of Mary?*

*C) Will I be able to find and experience the the presence of the divine saviour in Marys Womb?*

*D) Will I be able to consider, the visit of Mary great event, for which I am not a worthy person, but it is a graet gratuitous gift of go?*

*3) Things needed to expect Marys visit in my Life*

Those of us, who wish and desire the divine visit of Mary should prepare ourselves like Elizabeth.

First of all we should lead a holy life like Elizabeth. She was blameless before God and she observed all the commandments of the Lord. 

Secondly Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. So we need to fill ourselves with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Thirdly we must be able to recognise and realise the divine visit of our blessed mother along with Jesus. 

Fourthly we need to carry/conceive in our hearts the spirit and missionary zeal of John the Baptist to prepare the way of the Lord? 

Am I ready? 

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Things Which are very necessary for the Birth of Jesus in my Life

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 4th Week - Sunday

GOSPEL Lk 1:26-38

First Reading - 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16

Second Ready - Rom 16:25-27

*Things Which are very necessary for the Birth of Jesus in my Life*

We are very close to the event of Christmas. Today's reading calls us to reflect about the very important things which are necessary for the birth of Jesus. They are the following

*1) We need to be  Filled with Grace*

*Hail Mary Full of Grace* These are the greetings of the Angel to Mary

These greetings show the aspect of Grace which is found in Mary. 

Grace was very much necessary for the Birth of Jesus, which was really found in Jesus 

We need to be filled with Grace, in order to prepare ourselves for the birth of Jesus.

Sacrament of reconciliation is one of the ways to prepare ourselves and to fill ourselves with the grace of God

*2) We need to be with the Lord*

*The Lord is with You* This is the second part of Angels greeting, which shows that, since Mary was with God, God also was with Mary 

Being with God, or in the presence of God is very necessary for the Birth of Jesus 

*God is always with us* But the question is *Are we with God?*

At time we are everywhere, except with God. Without being with God, one can't expect to have the Birth of Jesus in his/her life. 

By reading the Word of God, by doing our various spiritual duties, by praying regularly and meditating on the word of God, we can be with God.

*3) We Need to find favour of God*

*Mary, for you have found favor with God.*

Mary found favour of God, because of her righteous life. 

Special and extraordinary things are given to the favoured one because, one who gives them is sure that they will be faithful to the things which are given 

They will do all the possible things and ready to sacrifice anything for the things to happen in their life. 

Gods favour lies in acceptability, faithfulness, readiness to face all the possible challenges in carrying out the responsibility and readiness to offer ones life for God's  sake. 

Such things come in the of concept *favoured one* and it is not a blind favour based on likings 

Such aspects of favour were found in Mary, so she was favoured by God. 

Do I have the above aspects which are necessary for God's favour. Unless we are favoured by God, the birth of Jesus will not happen in my Life. 

What things I need to pay attention, in order to find favour of God, in my Life? 

*4) We need to clarify our doubts*

*But Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?*

Doubts are the part of our lives. We get many doubts based on our reasoning capacity. Mary to had many doubts. But she with a sincere heart clarified them 

A doubtful mind is always dangerous, which does not give consent for anything

Unless one gives consent for something, nothing happens in life. 

Mary clarified the doubts and she was ready to receive Jesus in her life

Clarifying my doubts is very necessary to prepare myself for the birth of Jesus

Listening to God and others is the best solution to clarify ones doubts.

*5) We need to become the handmaids of the Lord*

*Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.*

Handmaid is the one who carries out the will of the Master

*Handmaid-ness* speaks about the humility and the willingness to carry out God's plan in her life. 

Am I ready to become the handmaid of the Lord, which is very necessary for the birth of Jesus in my life. 

*6) Things to happen according to God's will*

*May it be done to me according to your word*

Ultimately Mary agreed for the will of God to happen in her life. 

Giving complete control of her life to God. Which speaks about her, trust, confidence, courage and willingness

Am I ready to offer myself for the will of God to happen in my life? 

Only then Jesus will be able to take birth in my life.

Am I ready for the birth of Jesus?

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Every Challenge has its own purpose

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Saturday

GOSPEL Lk 1:5-25

First Reading - Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a

*Every Challenge has its own purpose*

*1) Barrenness was a great challenge for Zechariah and Elizabeth*

*Both were righteous in the eyes of God*

This speaks about how Holy they were

*They were observing all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly.*

This is the another information we have about this Holy Couple. 

The above two things show us the height of holiness  and no one could question about that 

Even such a Holy Couple had one of the greatest challenges of Life that is : they had no child

*But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren*

On one  side we see their great holiness on the other side there is a great challenges. 

So how to explain this? 

*2) Elizabeth's barrenness was with a divine purpose*

The role of John the Baptist to prepare the way of the Lord. 

So John had to take birth just before the birth of Christ. 

So the birth of John was (second Coming of Elijah) had to take place just before the birth of Jesus

So Elizabeth and Zechariah had to wait for this moment 

As it appears to the human reason, it seems to be a great challenge, because such a holy couple having no child. 

But one should have a little wisdom to see the purpose of this barrenness, in the context of the birth of a great man, who will prepare the way for the Lord. 

*3) God Chose Zechariah and Elizabeth a holy couple for the Birth of a Great person*

God wanted a righteous couple for the arrival of a righteous man who will become the precursor of Jesus. 

As it was believed this precursor would the 2nd coming of Elijah in the form of John the Baptist. 

So the precursor of Jesus was already found in Elijah, but for the coming of this Elijah, God needed a holy couple. 

So ultimately God chooses this Holy couple. Even then the time was not fulfilled for the Birth of John 

So this Holy couple had to wait for this moment

This waiting appears to be *barrenness* for the entire world, but for God, it is great time for reveling the Birth of Great man John  

So in this way the barrenness of Elizabeth gets a new meaning   

*4) Elizabeth's barrenness made the Birth of John an extraordinary Event*

Since Elizabeth was barren, the Good News of Johns birth became a great event, because

People came to know about the great vision Zechariah had

Secondly Zechariah became mute. This also has direct connection with the barrenness of Elizabeth

Thirdly Elizabeth and Zechariah had advanced in Age. So conceiving a child would be a real miracle. In this context, the barrenness of Elizabeth, became a great opportunity for a great miracle 

So all these things will prove that, Elizabeth's barrenness had a great purpose. 

*5) This holy couple never complained about their inability to have a child*

They were righteous before God. This speaks that they never even questioned God about their inability to have children, in spite of having a deep spirituality. 

This also shows how holy they were.

 

*6) How do I face the great challenges in My Life*

Do I take them as an opportunity for the greater miracles in my life. 

We are all called for a better and great divine purposes. In this process we have to undergo, various types of barrenness. So what is my response during this barrenness? 

Am I able to wait patiently, until the time comes? 

Just think about it

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Joseph was a righteous Man : Following are some of the Areas to understand His Righteousness

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Friday

GOSPEL Mt 1:18-25

First Reading Jer 23:5-8

*Joseph was a righteous Man : Following are some of the Areas to understand His Righteousness*

*1) Since he was a righteous man*

The Gospel first if all clearly tells us that Joseph was a righteous  man. 

Joseph's righteousness is of special category. For this reason the Gospel clearly expresses this aspect 

The Gospel also tell us *Since he was righteous, Joseph did the following things. So his righteousness is concretely seen in the following areas. 

*A) Joseph was unwilling to expose her to shame*

This is where his righteousness speaks louder than anything else. 

Joseph didn't want to harm Mary in any way and wanted her name to be safe. 

Exposing one person to shame means, almost equal to killing that person 

When some one is exposed to shame, life becomes very difficult. 

*B) Joseph's righteousness is attuned, to listen to Gods plan*

The righteousness of Joseph is so great, that he was able to listen to God, and understand His plans 

Only a righteous person  is able to listen of God

*C) Joseph's Righteousness is seen in His belief in God's plan*

Joseph as a young man had lots of plans for the future. 

But when God communicated His plan, Joseph was ready to change is Beliefs,which alos presupposes that he firmly believed in Gods plan. 

A genuine righteousness makes a person to change his/her plan, in order to  adopt Gods plan 

*D) Josephs righteousness is reflected in knowing will of God through the dreams*

In fact the angel of the Lord, appeared to him, through the dreams

Joseph was ready to accept what was revealed in dreams, which needs tremendous courage and deep faith. For this reason he is a just man

*E) Joseph's  righteousness is clearly seen, when He took Mary as His wife*

Since He believed what was communicated to him, by the angel, through the dream, he followed it meticulously. 

He didn't think about, what public will think of me. He was thinking about, God will think of me? This shows a deep sense of his righteousness

*F) Josephs righteousness, is seen in his humility*

He was most humble person. His humility is of great inspiration to all of us. 

He never boasted himself for anything. Even when he knew that he has been chosen to become the foster Father of Jesus. 

*2) What about my righteousness?*

In which areas it is reflected.

  

Do I check once in a while, to see where is my righteousness

Let's try to live the righteousness of St Joseph,who will intercede for  all of us.

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Richness and Greatness of Genealogy

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Thursday

GOSPEL Mt 1:1-17

First Reading - Gn 49:2, 8-10

*The Richness and Greatness of Genealogy*

*1)  The New Testament begins with Genealogy*

The very fact that the Gospel of Mathew begins with the Genealogy, it occupies a special significance in the Gospel. 

Since this genealogy comes in the context of, knowing more about Jesus, the genealogy has some direct reference to Jesus 

So the speciality of the genealogy can be explained in the following way 

*2) Genealogy helps us to find the various persons involved in the line of ancestors*

There are many people who are involved in the line of the ancestors of Jesus. The genealogy will help us to know who are these persons. 

Knowing the various persons who come in the linage of the ancestors of Jesus. 

*3) Genealogy will help us to find out the origin of Jesus*

In the Genealogy of Jesus we find many great personalities, ultimately leading the origin of Jesus, to the divine fatherhood. 

So the genealogy of Jesus proves that He is of the Divine origin and Jesus is the Son of God. 

This affirmation is very much necessary to accept Jesus as the Saviour of the World and adore Him as our God, Lord, and Master.

*4) Genealogy will help us to know that God, chooses even great sinners for His Salvific plan*

In the genealogy of Jesus not only the great and Holy people are found, even the great sinners are found. 

For example Rahab - A Canaanite proustite - Her name is mentioned in the Genealogy of Jesus

So it is very clear that even the great sinners have a great role to play in the salvific plan of God and God does not abandon the sinners

This also proves that Jesus has come into this world to save the sinners and give them new life. 

*5) Genealogy reveals the great fact that we are all related to each other*

When we analyze the genealogy of Jesus, one fact becomes very clear that we are all related to each other. 

We also belong to the family of Jesus. That is why Jesus calls us His brothers and Sisters, and we also address each other, *My dear brothers and sisters*

Let's thank God for making us the part of His genealogy, by giving us the chance to become His brothers and Sisters. 

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The tragedy of not communicating what we have seen and Heard

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Wednesday

GOSPEL Lk 7:18b-23

First Reading Is 45:6c-8, 18, 21c-25

*The tragedy of not communicating what we have seen and Heard*

*Go and tell John what you have seen and heard*

*1) John's Disciples followed the instructions of Jesus*

When John the Baptist sent his disciples to verify about Jesus, He was performing great miracles. 

Jesus said only one thing *"Go and tell John what you have seen and heard*

We are sure that the disciples who went back have communicated the right message to John, which has cleared all His doubts. 

*2) We have a great mission of telling what we have seen and heard*

As the followers of Jesus, everyday we hear great things about Jesus, and we see many miracles performed by Jesus, in our own life and in our surroundings. 

How far are faithful in communicating the genuine message of what we have seen and heard about Jesus.

At times we avoid to communicate what we have seen and what we have heard and we  proclaim things which are not true. They are called gossips. 

At times we have failed to know the seriousness of this mission, which has, curtailed the growth of the Kingdom of God. 

*3) The consequences of failing in this mission*

The Lords command is very clear. *Go and proclaim the Goodnews* 

Many a times the bad news becomes more popular than goodnews. As a result the good news is not communicated. 

One of the reasons why there is lot of wickedness in the world is because, the failure in communicating *what we have heard and what we have seen*

*4) Even during the time of Jesus there were many people who failed in this mission*

There were many people who failed to communicate what they had seen and what they had heard

The chief priests, elders of the people

The Jewish authorities and those people who were in authorities

The scribes and Pharisees

Kings like Herod, and people like Pilot 

Even the disciples of Jesus  - Judas

The ultimate result of failing in communicating what we have seen and heard is the death of Jesus 

The gravity of this failure is great . 

When we fail to communicate what we have seen and heard, which is equal to good news, it gradually dies and  our spiritual life also dies along with it.

So we need to be very careful 

*5) The great mission of the eyes and ears*

The eyes and ears are the greatest gifts of God. These gifts are given for a higher purpose. We need to realise that and we should make use of these God given faculties for a higher mission. 

Some people have wrong eyesight, which does not allow them to see what is good. They always see something bad in everything. This is a problem. 

Some people don't hear good things, but always they pretend that they have heard something, which was nowhere said. This is also a problem. 

*Where do I stand?*

*How do I use my ears and eyes?*

*Think about it*

*Mangalore*

Change of Mind should always be for better things and not for Worse things

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Tuesday

GOSPEL Mt 21:28-32

First Reading Zep 3:1-2, 9-13

*Change of Mind should always be for better things and not for Worse things*

*1) Change of mind is one of the important aspects of Human life*

This is important because, it really changes the direction of ones life. 

Change of mind is always seen as the positive aspect of ones life. When some one says 'He/She changed his/her mind, we immediately conclude that something good has come or something good will happen. 

*2) Change on Mind - is also seen in God* 

We have many references which reveal to us about God changing His Mind 

So the Lord changed His mind about the harm which He said He would do to His people.

So the Lord changed His mind about the harm which He said He would do to His people

So the Lord changed His mind about the harm which He said He would do to His people," (Exodus 32:14)

The LORD changed His mind about this. "It shall not be," said the LORD. (Amos 7:3)

And did not the LORD relent, (Change) so that he did not bring the disaster he pronounced against them? Jeremiah 26:19

In God also this aspect finds very important place for doing something good. So it is very important for us to know the importance of it. 

*3) Change of Mind needs deeper realisation*

Only a person who is able to realise what has happened in ones life can think of the aspect of Change of Mind. 

Realisation of oneself means one is ready to examine oneself and trying to know what is good and what is not so good. 

Only such kind of evaluation of the self will lead finally to the change of mind. Or else nothing will happen 

Change of mind does not happen automatically, it needs hard work in the form of a genuine evaluation of the self 

*4) Change of Mind of the First Son*

In the Gospel we see the first son finally had the change of mind and he went for doing the work which was asked by his father. 

So it is clear that the first son  Realised his mistake in saying to the Father *I will no go* and then he changed his mind. 

He definitely had evaluated his life about his own attitude towards his father, and has come to the realisation that he had gone against the will of his father and the realisation that he has done something wrong. 

This realisation not only helped him to change his mind, but also to do the will of His father, later. 

Towards the end the parable the person who changed his mind becomes a main hero of the parable. 

So *Change of mind has the deep consequences for life, and they are good for life. 

*5) Change of mind should always for good purpose* 

When we speak about the change of Mind, since it has a positive tone, it should for something good and greater 

Never change ones mind for doing something bad and something wicked. 

King Pharaoh and his officials changed their mind, after they allowed the Israelites to go, and they went after them to enslave once again. In their attempt all of them died and perished. 

Therefore never to change ones mind to do worse things or bad things, because it will destroy ones life. 

*6) Change of mind is a everyday process*

Change of mind is not a one time work or it is not a limited to a particular moment. 

Since we are weak in our nature, change of mind is needed at all times to keep up the spirit of goodness and to live a holy life. 

Since the world is very attractive and it becomes the cause of temptation, we need to change our mind to divert our attention from these worldly things and to fix our gaze on the heavenly things. 

So *Change of mind* should become a daily affair and it should make us to live a better and meaningful life, for the service of God. 

*7) Am I ready to change my mind?*

How do I change my mind? Is it for better or for worse? 

 

Has it helped me to change my life for the better? 

Do I give any value to the aspect of *Change of mind*

*Change of mind is the change of Heart, and change of heart is the change of Life*

Reflect about it and try to change your life for the better

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How do I Use the Holy Temple area or premises in my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Monday

GOSPEL Mt Mt 21:23-27

First Reading - Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a

*How do I Use the Holy Temple area or premises in my Life?*

*1) Jesus used the Temple premises for Teaching and preaching*

The Gospel is clear in stating that Jesus was teaching when chief priests and elders of the people approached Him. 

We always find Jesus in the temple area either, praying, or proclaiming the Word of God, or teaching the people or healing them 

So this was the main things performed by Jesus in the Temple. 

*2) Temple and temple premises can be used only for Holy things*

From the life of Jesus it is very clear that holy places can be used only for the holy purposes. 

In fact we also see that Jesus is getting angry for using the temple premises for the business. So He chased all of them and said, this House is a House of prayer and you have turned into the den of robbers 

It is written," he said to them, "'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it 'a den of.' Mt  21:13

So it is clear that the purpose of the temple is only to use for holy things, like prayer, meditation, teaching and preaching. 

*3) Chief priests and Elders of the people had different purpose*

They used the temple premises first of all to trap Jesus and to find fault with Him. 

Their purpose was not motivated for good things, but something bad and negative. 

It is so sad that these people who were responsible for doing God's work and serving the people, using the temple premises for something and unholy things 

Using temple premises for trapping some one, for gossip,  for spoiling the good reputation of some one, for making groups and dividing the people are really abominable things. 

*4) God does not answer the things which are done with wrong intention*

*Neither shall I tell you*  this is the final answer of Jesus for those who were trying to trap Him and trying to spoil His name. 

So the response of God is very clear for the things which are done with wrong intentions and the things which are done with the intention of putting other person into difficulties. 

*5) How do I use the temple premises in my Life?*

What is the primary motive of my life when I enter the temple premises. It may have different purposes 

For some people it is the place of worship, holiness and for spiritual nourishment 

For others it becomes a place of self exhibition of their talents and capacities

For still other it is a place of recognition. 

For others it becomes a place of getting position and power 

Still for others to achieve their selfish motives, to exercise their hidden agendas and so on

There are also others who use this place to take revenge on thier opponent

For others it becomes a place of service and doing the work of God. 

*Where do I stand amidst these options? Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I able to testify the Light

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Sunday

GOSPEL Jn 1:6-8,19-28

First Reading - Is 61:1-2, 10-11

Second Reading 1Thes 5:16-24

*Am I able to testify Light*

*Is my Life suitable for testifying Light*

*1) Who are you?*

This one of the questions which was asked for John the Baptist.

The answer to this question has direct reference to the light. 

He says that "I came to testify to the Light"

In other words I am the voice crying in the wilderness in order to testify to the Light

*2) What is the meaning of testifying*

Testifying means *serve as evidence or proof that something exists*

Here John's Mission and existence serves as an evidence for the light or for the existence of the Light. 

Here light refers to Jesus and His mission. 

*3) Who can testify the Light?*

From the life and mission of John the Baptist it is very clear that only one who knows about the light can testify the light. 

John knew exactly who is the light and the greatness of the light. So he was able to give proof for the existence of light. 

Unless one has this light within oneself, one can't bear witness to light. 

*4) Things that are necessary for testify light*

The life of John the Baptist shows us the necessary things which are necessary to bear witness to the light. 

*A) Life of Prayer*

This is one of the important things which is needed to testify light. 

John's life is the best example for prayer and deep spirituality. 

*B) Simplicity of life*

John's simplicity of life is the foundation factor which motivated him to testify the light. 

*C) Humility*

John's humility is great. He humbled himself before Christ and He knew his role as precursor of Jesus. 

*D) Penance*

Johns penance shows the personality and his discipline in living a holy life. 

His food was wild honey and locust. This also shows the type of penance he practiced in order to bear witness to light. 

*E) Courage*

John had extraordinary courage. He was in a position to challenge king Herod and ready to die for the sake of truth. 

Only those people who have courage can testify light. 

*F) Truth*

Truth is the first principle of His life. 

Other than truth he would not speak anything. 

He was born in truth, lived for truth, caught for truth, and died for truth. 

One who fights for truth and justice can bear witness to light 

*5) Light is the Symbol of God*

Light is always compared to God. Wherever there is God there is light and wherever there is light, there is God. 

Darkness symbolises devil and his kingdom. 

*6) Without light Life is impossible*

Any life for that matter will not grow without light. 

Light is necessary for all sorts of life and to Human beings light is most necessary thing. 

*7) Light brightens our Life*

Light makes us Happy and it gives a special boost for our life. 

With light life seems to be happy, joyful, and cheerful. 

*8) Christmas is the feast of Light*

Light is the main thing which is highlighted in Christmas mystery. 

There is external light, which makes us cheerful. 

More than that, Christ is the real light of the World, who brings all things to the light and to His Presence. 

*9) Our main mission is to testify to the Light*

Our life is one of the ways to testify to the light. 

The way we live, our attitude, our mission definitely can testify to the light. 

But the question is, Am I confident to say like John the Baptist that my Life is in position to testify to the light?/

Think about it.

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I able to recognise Elijah, John the Baptist and the Son of Man in my Life

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 2nd Week - Saturday

GOSPEL Mt 17:9a, 10-13

*First Reading - Sir 48:1-4, 9-11*

*Am I able to recognise Elijah, John the Baptist and the Son of Man in my Life*

*1) Elijah was a great Prophet*

One among great prophets of the Old Testament. 

There is no record of His death in the Scriptures, but He was taken to heaven through a chariot of fire and horses of fire and Elijah is lifted up in a whirlwind. (2Kings 2:1-5)

Because of this people believed that Elijah will come again before the messiah comes. 

*2) John the Baptist is the New Elijah*

According to belief of the people, which has strong foundation in the 2Kings 2:1-9, John the Baptist is the New Elijah, who had all the qualities and the nature of Elijah. 

But only few people recognised him as the reappearance of Elijah. 

Such was the Greatness of John the Baptist.

*3) Son of Man is the New Mosses of Israel*

In the New testament Jesus is the New Mosses because of the similarities between Jesus and Moses. 

Moses led people to God. Son of Man also will lead people to God.

*4) In spite of the Clear appearance, Scribes and Pharisees could not recognise their identity*

In John the Baptist they saw a man who is possessed with a demon

In Son of Man they saw a person who was involved in driving, eating and mixing with the sinners 

*5)John the Baptist and the Son of Man is always present in our midst. Are you able to recognise them?*

Every call for repentance is nothing but the reminder of John the Baptist

Simple ans ascetic life is the reminder of John the Baptist

Jesus' Presence is very powerful in our lives.forgiveness, humility, faithfulness, courage, are the various ways through which Christ works. 

Am I able to recognise this Jesus in my Life?

*6)*Hurdles for recognising Jesus in our life*

For scribes it was arrogance, pride, self righteousness, chosen and privileged people of God. Such an attitude make us blind in recognising Jesus in our Lives. 

*7) When I recognise Jesus in my life, changes take place*

Zacchaeus recognised Jesus, there came great Change. 

Matthew recognised Jesus, it changed his life. 

Sinful woman recognised Jesus, and there was a miracle in her life. 

The lepers, blind, lame, deaf recognised Jesus and we can see the Change in their lives 

Am I recognised Jesus in my Life? 

Recognise Jesus in your life and there will be great miracles in life. 

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Only Wise will see the Wisdom and the Works of Wisdom

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 2nd Week - Friday

GOSPEL Mt 11:16-19

First Reading - Is 48:17-19

*Only Wise will see the Wisdom and the Works of Wisdom*

*Do I belong to the Wise Generation or Wicked Generation?*

*1) Jesus Speaks about the Wicked Generation*

The generation becomes wicked, precisely because they are not able to recognize the clear works of wisdom. 

They lacked the basic sense of the wisdom. That is why they saw John the Baptist as a man possessed with a demon 

This generation becomes wicked because they saw in Jesus a person who is 

glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.

When a person is not able to see the clear works of wisdom or good works, such a person belongs to the wicked generation.

*2) To see the works of Wisdom, one should have a wisdom*

A work of wisdom can't be seen or experienced by a person who lacks minimum wisdom 

Such a person is ignorant about most basic things which are necessary to live as a simple human being. 

*3) Wisdom is vindicated by her works.*

In this above phrase the Gospel makes solemn profession about the Wisdom and her works. 

The Wisdom here refers to Jesus. Jesus is the Wisdom of the Father 

The Jewish people and the Jewish authorities could not recognise this wisdom of God. Because they lacked wisdom even though they had lot of knowledge. 

The mere failure by the Jewish authorities, does not hide the wisdom. It proved to be true by her works. 

*4) Jesus the Wisdom of the Father proves Himself through His Works*

Jesus worked many miracles. Through these works He proved Himself as the Messiah and the saviour of the World 

Many simple people like sinners, tax collectors and gentile people saw these great works of Wisdom/Jesus and they believed in Him 

The Wisdom/Jesus proved Himself to be true by His works even though the Jewish people failed to recognise Him. 

*5) Wisdom was recognised by Wise men*

Jesus the Wisdom was first recognised as Great wisdom of God by the Wise men from the East. 

Only Wise men could recognise the Wisdom/Jesus and His works. 

Am I wise enough to recognise the Wisdom in my Life? 

*6) Some of the Hurdles to recognise the Wisdom/Jesus*

The aspect of pride did not allow the Jewish people to recognise the Wisdom 

The arrogance, the attitude of Self righteousness, the over confidence on their rituals and laws, the thought that only they are chosen people and others are cursed ones, were some of the hurdles to recognise the wisdom

Apart from this the aspect of revenge, the attitude of I know everything, only I can do attitude would be hurdle to recognise the Wisdom/Jesus

*7) All the time wisdom is vindicated or proved to the True by her works*

There is no doubt about it 

Wisdom/Jesus is the saviour of the World. This is proved fact, whether you recognise or not. 

Wisdom/ Jesus is always proved to be true. There is no doubt about it. But the question is am I able to recognise the Wisdom? 

*8) Wisdom/Jesus is in my Life*

All the time this Wisdom/Jesus works in my life. 

Jesus  reveals Himself through His mighty works in my Life. Am I able to recognise? 

*9) Am I a wise man or a foolish man Belonging to wicked generation*

If you are able to recognise the Wisdom and the works of Wisdom you belong to the generation of Wise men 

If  you fail to recognise the Wisdom and Works of wisdom, first in your life and then in your surroundings, you belong to a wicked generation

If so to which generation do I belong? 

*To what shall I compare this (You) generation?*

Think about it.

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Does Kingdom of Heaven Suffer violence in my Hands?

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 2nd Week - Thursday

GOSPEL Mt 11:11-15

*First Reading - Is 41:13-20*

*Does Kingdom of Heaven Suffer violence in my Hands?*

*1) The Kingdom of heaven suffers violence*

This particular sentence is found in Today's Gospel 

In fact what Jesus says is true. The Kingdom of Heaven has suffered violence in the past, is violently attacked at present and the violence will continue even in the future. This is the fact 

*2) Persecution is one form of Violence*

When the speak about the violence on the Kingdom of Heaven, we always tend to think the persecution which are coming from outside the Church or from non Christians 

In one angle this is the truth. Today the Kingdom of Heaven suffers the most violent attacks than ever. 

Most of the people who suffer or die for faith is the Christian for the sake of the Faith 

*3) Today the violent attack is more from inside than outside*

Today the kingdom of Heaven violently suffers not because of external persecution but because of internal betrayal by some. 

There are many divisions are found in the Church, because of this the kingdom of heaven suffers a violent attack

Many people who are so called Christians  are no longer follow the religion and the values of the Kingdom of Heaven. So it suffers very violent attack

*4) Does Kingdom of Heaven Suffers a violent attack in my hands?*

This is the very important and very serious matter to be given much I importance. A careful analysis will show us that the kingdom of Heaven suffers a violent attack from my life. 

We can explain the above position in the following way 

As a Christian when my life fails to bear witness to Christ and His Values, the kingdom of Heaven suffers terribly the violent attack 

When I become a counter witness to the rest of the society 

When I fail to forgive and take revenge on another 

When I fail to carry out my God given responsibilities 

When I fail to teach the Gospel Values to my children and others 

When I refuse to share with others whatever I have 

When I fail to remain faithful to the Lord 

When I fail to practice the virtue of humility and  sincerity

When I fail to repent and change my life. 

All these above are the various  examples which make us to realise that the Kingdom of Heaven suffers a violent attack in my hands 

*5) I am called to protect the Kingdom of God like John the Baptist*

Through his simple life and deep faith in God, he safeguarded the kingdom of Heaven. 

All of us have the duty of protecting the Kingdom of heaven from the violent attacks

 

*6) Kingdom of God suffered violent attacks, but could not be destroyed*

The Kingdom of God will never be able to destroy by the violent attacks 

It is subjected to suffer but can not be destroyed. 

Those who have violently attack the kingdom of Heaven, have seen their terrible end. 

Kingdom of Heaven can't be destroyed through any violent attacks by any power under the Sun. 

*7) Finally does the Kingdom of Heaven  suffer a violent attack because of my laziness, carelessness and hypocrisy. 

Think about it

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Meaning of Jesus' Yoke

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 2nd Week - Wednesday

GOSPEL Mt 11:28-30

First Reading - Is 40:25-31

Meaning of Jesus' Yoke

*1) The ordinary understanding of the Yoke*

Yoke is a wooden piece designed in such a way which has the following advantages 

A) It is an instrument of union. It unites two oxen together

B) It is an instrument which makes the oxen to share the burden equally with the other. So yoke is a instrument which helps to share the burden 

C) Yoke is a special instrument which fits very well into the neck of the oxen. In fact a good yoke  fits well on the neck and shoulders of the animal  that helps to prevent the pain or discomfort.

D) A yoke is an instrument which makes the work of the oxen easy and less tiresome.

*2) Negative meaning of the Yoke*

Yoke is also an instrument of bondage, slavery

It is also represents for subjugation or controlling some one or something

It also represents for total submission to another. 

*3) The Yoke of Jesus*

The yoke of Jesus is an instrument to submit oneself to Jesus fully and totally

In ancient culture, the word yoke was a term that was used to describe submission. So when someone was described as being yoked to someone or something, it was communicating the idea that he or she was in submission to that person or thing.

So to be yoked to Jesus is to serve and obey Him.

*4) To what and Where I am yoked?*

Different people are yoked to different things

Some are yoked to the power of sin. They are under its control. 

Some are yoked to the bodily pleasures, they are under their control 

Some are yoked to the power, position, wealth, money, name, publicity, and they are under their control

Some are yoked to the material things of this world, they are under their control. 

The question is to whom or what do one wants to be yoked?

*5) Jesus says take my yoke*

Jesus' yoke consists in sharing, helping, forgiving, healing, loving, sacrificing and encouraging one another 

Jesus says to take up His yoke, because it lightens the burden. For example, by forgiving, no burden will be added. By not forgiving the burden will increase

Like wise helping, sharing and encouraging one another lightens the burden. That's why Jesus says, take up my yoke.

*6) Jesus is the model for us to handle the Yoke*

Jesus says *Learn from me*. This is an indication about how to handle the yoke. 

*7) Two things which are necessary to take the Yoke* 

Meekness and Humility is necessary to take the yoke of Christ. 

*Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart*

Jesus' yoke is primarily to give rest and not to increase burden. That is the beauty of the yoke of Jesus? 

*8) Some questions*

Where is my yoke? 

In what things my yoke consists? 

Do I have yoke of humility, sincerity, truthfulness, forgiveness, sharing, sacrifice and other kingdom values? 

Or have I submitted myself to the yoke of pride, arrogance, revenge, anger, name, publicity, etc 

Think about it

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

When Mary got Troubled She pondered over the Trouble - What about me?

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 2nd Week - Tuesday

GOSPEL Lk 1 : 26-38

First Reading - Gen 3:9-15, 20

Second Reading : Eph  1: 3-6, 11-12

When Mary got Troubled She pondered over the Trouble - What about me?

*1) Even Mary got Troubled for the plan of God*

When angel Gabriel appeared to and greeted her, she was greatly troubled.

The trouble is because of the unexpected thing 

The trouble is because, she is seeing a holy creature, the Angel Gabriel

The trouble is because of the extraordinary greetings of the Angel 

*2) Mary's Response to the Trouble*

When she was troubled, she didn't run away from the scene. First of all she was able to ponder or think about the mystery of the trouble

She faced the situation with courage. Because of her trouble she was not confused 

The trouble did not shatter her plans but built her plans according to the will of God

*3) She pondered all the Troubles*

Pondering means 

think about (something) carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.

Since she was able to ponder - She could listen to the Angel

Since she was able to ponder - She could clarify her doubts with the angel 

Since she was able to ponder - She was able to say *Yes* to Gods plan 

Since she was able to ponder on the trouble - She was able to change her plans according to the plan of God

*4) What is my response when I am troubled?*

For many - troubles will destroy their dreams and plans 

For others - troubles will make them to give up everything

Troubles will make many to lose their confidence, trust, vision, creativity,  Zeal, and even their own life. 

*5) Uncontrolled Troubles are dangerous*

When trouble takes the control of the life, the life becomes miserable

Uncontrolled troubles will lead you into confusion and problems

Uncontrolled troubles will destroy ones life

*6) Marys Troubles were only for short period*

Since she was able to ponder, listen to the angel, clarify doubts, her troubles remained only for a short time. 

Her open approach solved her troubles. 

When I am stiff, when I close myself, troubles can not be handled. 

Be open to God and you can face all the troubles with positive results 

*7) Handling of Trouble is a great art* 

Mary had this art, so she became the mother of God. 

Judas didn't know how to handle the trouble. So troubles destroyed his life. 

Simplicity and openness to God, like that of Mary will help you to handle your troubles in a better way. 

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

When we fail to prepare, we prepare to fail

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 2nd Sunday

GOSPEL Mark 1:1-8

First Reading - Is 40:1-5, 9-11

Second Reading : 2 Pet 3:8-14

When we fail to prepare, we prepare to fail

*1) Preparation is the main theme of Today's Liturgy*

The word prepare comes from the Latin word *prae* which means ‘before’ 

*parare* which means ‘to get ready’

So to prepare means to get ready before an action takes place

*2) The preparation origins in God*

God is fond of preparing right from the beginnings

Before creating the animals and plants God prepared the land and Sea (Gen 1:10)

Before the creation of Man God prepared the Garden of Eden (Gen 2:8-9)

Before every divine action there is always a corresponding divine preparation

God prepared a ram of sacrifice in the place of Isaac   (Gen 22:13)

Before people of Israel left Egypt God used the Passover to prepare them (Ex 12)

Before Jeremiah was formed God prepared him for a mission (Jer 1:5)

God prepared our redemption through the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:17)

God had created every human being for a divine purpose – are we prepared to offer ourselves to Him?

*3) Three People and their  Three Messages*

In the three readings three messages to the three communities to prepare the path or Road (Heart) For the Lord who is coming

Isaiah speaks to the people of Israel in  exile “He is your God”

John the Baptist in the Gospel to the people Palestine speaks about humility and repentance

Apostle Peter speaks to the Christian communities after 40years of Jesus’ death and resurrection – his talk is “No one can be Lost”  

*4) Three ways to Prepare*

 Preparing the road to the Heart includes three things

*Leveling*

*Filling*

*Making plain*

*5) Three ways applied to Spiritual Life*

In the spiritual life similar activities are  recommended

*Level the mountains* we have lots of destructive mountains in the form of sin, 

The Mountain of Anger,  Hatred, Jealousy, revenge, Pride, need to level.

*Fill the valleys* : Fill the valleys of emptiness of our life with the virtues like patience, watchfulness, love, generosity, sincerity etc.

*Make the uneven   path straight* : This has to do with the straightening of our attitudes and making positive changes. 

Often we are lukewarm; neither hot nor cold. The word of God says He will spit us out if we are lukewarm (Rev 3:15-16)

*6) Advent is a time of preparation to change ourselves*

We need to realise this. This change should happen within ourselves and not outside of us 

Only a genuine and rigours preparation will help us to have internal change during this Advent Season 

Preparation is the success of every little thing that we undertake in our life. 

If so value the aspect of preparation and life will be colourful and Holy.

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why Jesus sent His disciples first only to the House of Israel?

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 1st Saturday

GOSPEL Mt 9:35–10:1, 5a, 6-8

First Reading - Is 30:19-21, 23-26

*Why Jesus sent His disciples first only to the House of Israel?*

*1) Jesus' Clear instruction to go Israel*

When Jesus sent His disciples out for the mission He gave them some necessary instructions. 

One among the instructions is about, where they have go for mission. 

Jesus tells them *Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel*

Why Jesus concentrates only on the House of Israel and not others? 

*2) The meaning of Israel at different levels* 

*A) In the context the Israel represents the People of God.*

They are specially chosen people of God - the Jews. So Jesus sends His disciples to the Lost Israelites, to being them back. 

*B) Secondly the Israel represents my own life*

At times my life is like the Israel. I might have lost many things in my life : for example, integrity, humility, faithfulness, commitment, determination, vigour, creativity, novelty, humour, and at time even a small and simple smile 

If I have lost the above things pay attention to these.

*C) Israel is My own family*

Is there anything that I have lost in my family? 

Family duties and responsibility, cooperation, concern for each other, etc

Have I lost my children due to my busy schedule or children are busy with modern gadgets, or social networks? 

Have a lost family prayer, peaceful atmosphere, service minded attitude? 

*d) Thirdly Israel represents my own surroundings and the society*

Do I know who is living in the next door to my house? 

How is my relationship with the neighbour? Anything have I lost there? For example, trust, confidence, love, belongingness, sharing etc 

*e) Israel represents, my parish, my workplace, and  my relationship with many*

What have I lost in the above places? 

Peace of mind, commitment, happiness etc 

So the Israel is very much closely connected to our life situation. 

*3) Put the order in the House first*

For Jesus,  Israel was His own nation and people were chosen by the Lord. So Israel was Jesus house 

First mission consists in putting the house in order. Unless the house is in order, no other work can be done. 

So Jesus pays attention, first to His own household, to put the things in right perspectives

Once the house is in order, then any other mission becomes more effective. 

So Jesus pays special attention, first of all to put the house is in order. 

*4) First Put your life in order with the Help of Jesus* 

This is one of the first and important work to be done by everyone

Since our lives are not perfect we need to pay attention to set it right 

Find what are the things lost in ones life and need to restore it. 

*5) Once the House is in order, mission becomes effective* 

When the house is in order or when our life is in order, our mission becomes more effective and more commanding

Such a mission has more witnessing value. 

*6) Today the Church has become the lost Sheep of Israel*

We have lost many things, for example, The unity, because we have more divisions, The true spirit of Christ, the True kingdom values like forgiveness, service and Love. 

There are also other many things we have lost

*7) Today the primary mission consists in going to the lost sheep of Israel*

This Israel is my own life, family, church, society where I live, my work place and so on 

What is the lost sheep of Israel in my Life? 

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*