The Pharisees and Herodians were sent to Jesus to ensnare Him in His Speech

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 9th Week -  Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 12:13-17*

*First Reading - Tob 2:9-4*

*The Pharisees and Herodians were sent to Jesus to ensnare Him in His Speech*

*1) Wrong intention in doing some work*

These pharisees  and herodians were either sent by the Jewish authorities  or they might have come on their own

In either case their intention  is very evil. They start their work with evil intention 

Any work which is done with evil intention  does not bear fruit. Instead it turns against us and it causes great harm to the person who does it 

The intention  of pharisees  and herodians was very clear. That is to ensnare or trap Jesus  

*2) They failed in their work*

The pharisees  and the herodians who came with the intention of ensnaring  Jesus, finally  could not succeed in their work 

In fact they were caught in the same net, which they used to trap Jesus 

They spoke one thing and behind  their mind they had different intention.  

The Gospel  makes it very clear that those who carry wrong or evil intentions in their minds  to trap others will finally  trapped in the same trap which they use for others 

*3) Things which take the place of pharisees  and herodians in our life*

As it is clear from the Gospel that the pharisees  and herodians were sent by some one to trap Jesus, this has some connections  to our life too 

There are many things in our lives which act like these pharisees  and herodians 

All our temptations  take the place of pharisees  and herodians, which are sent by the devil to trap us in our life 

Following may be some of the examples 

Pride, envy, revengeful attitude, anger, gossip, non cooperation, narrow mindedness, and temptations of the flesh, are some of the things which are sent by the devil to ensnare us in our lives 

So like Jesus we need to be careful

*4) How to deal about these things in life*

 

Jesus is the model for us. 

First of all he judged the hypocrisy involved in it

Secondly  he verified and examined the situation  immediately 

Thirdly he found solution in the problem  itself 

So this is the best strategy  we need to use when we are ensnared by the above things 

First know the real intention  of any feelings, temptations  or situations. 

Secondly  attend to it immediately  without postponing it or ignoring it

Thirdly  find a solution  in the problem  itself and not outside of it 

*5) Some of the spiritual instruments to fight against the above things*

Prayer, reading of the Word of God, Trust in God,  courage, service, sacrifice, Sharing,  generosity

The various spiritual activities which we practice in our lives are the powerful instruments  to fight against the snares of the devil. 

We need to be alert all the time because  the devil is very alert and trap is in many ways 

*Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 1Peter 5:8*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

And Why has this Happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 9th Week -  Holy Trinity Sunday*

*Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Feast*

*GOSPEL -  Luke 1:39-56*

*First Reading - Zeph 3:14-18 or Rom 12:9-16*

*And Why has this Happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me?*

*1) Why has this Happen to me?*

One of the most common questions in our life 

Many times we ask this question depending on various situations in our life 

This above question, shows that something unusual has happened in life and at times we are not able to understand the reason behind the happening of the thing

*2) Elizabeth asks this Question : And why has this happen to me?*

When we read the Gospel and the life of Elizabeth, and the event that is happening there clearly shows that, Elizabeth is asking this question not out of Desperation. 

Elizabeth is asking this question out of great surprise. 

This great surprise shows her greatness in acknowledging the great favour from the Lord, the Lords grace and Mercy, her thankful heart, her unworthiness to meet the Mother of the Lord, and her humility

This question also shows the right disposition that one should have when God does great wonders in our life

*3) My Life and this question : And why has this happen to me?*

For most of us, the tone of the question itself shows a kind of desperation, a kind of helplessness, a type of grumbling at something or towards some one 

This question usually comes in the blame game. When something bad happens to us or when we have to face many challenges, we ask God in a negative tone : O God, why this has happen to me? 

This question shows a kind of anger towards God and our unwillingness to accept the will of God

*4) Positive aspect of this Question*

When we reflect about the life of Elizabeth, it is very clear, the question has positive aspects in it 

The positive aspect in this question helps us to acknowledge the greatness and Goodness of the Lord, a thankful heart towards God, God's mighty works in ones life, gratefulness, our own  unworthiness, etc 

Do I have a positive aspect or negative aspect towards this question? 

*5) COVID19 and this Question*

The second wave of COVID19 has really created a great havoc in our country. 

Lakhs of people have lost their precious life. More than 200 priests, many sisters and many of our dear ones have lost thier lives

Under this terrifying situation many of us have this same question : *And why has this happen to me or to my family?*

The tone really a helpless one and the situation is really depressing one

Its really a great challenge to answer such questions when we are faced with such questions. No one has an answer which can satisfy us. 

*6) Mother Mary is our Hope*

Mother Mary too had such a terrible situations no only once in life time. But throughout her life 

She too had this question *and why has this happen to me?*

But nowhere we find that Mary asked this question with negative tone. 

She always had a great hope and trust in God, which made her to carry out her mission 

Let's Pray to our heavenly Mother to strengthen us when we are faced with *And why has this happen to me?"* So that we are able to have a different approach to the situation and also to the life 

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of baptising in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 9th Week -  The Most Holy Trinity Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 28:16-20*

*First Reading - Dt 4:32-34, 39-40*

*SECOND READING Rom 8:14-17*

*Importance of baptising in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit*

*1) We are consecrated with Triple dose of Holiness*

Through the sacrament of Baptism we not only become the Children of God, but also we are consecrated to God, though the Baptism

Since in the Trinity there are three persons, we are consecrated with triple dose of Holiness and grace to become the genuine children of God

*2) Triple role of Christian life*

*God the Father is creator.*

 When we are baptised in the name of the Father we also take part in the creation work 

So all of us have the responsibility of creating a good Christian life, creating a peaceful society, creating a exemplary life, creating a good nature around us, creating a brotherly/sisterly feeling among us and creating a atmosphere of justice and truth 

*Jesus is our saviour*

When we are baptised in the name of Jesus, we are not only saved, but we are given the responsibility of this saving mission

We need to become the saviours in our family to the children,  in our neighborhood in saving the good relationship, in our society, saving our brothers and sisters through the service and in our churches, though our prayerful support and generosity. 

So we have many opportunities to become saviour in our own way 

*Holy Spirit makes us Holy*

When we are baptised in the name of the Holy Spirit, we are not only made holy, but we are also given the mission of making another person holy through our way of life

We can make others life holy though our exemplary way of life 

We can inspire another to live a holy life, though our attitudes, forgiveness, sacrifice, sharing, service, generosity etc 

Living our life with utmost holiness itself is a great witness to inspire another person to live his/her life in Holiness 

*3) Trinity is the beginning and End*

In every aspect of our life Trinity becomes the importance aspect of our life 

Our earthly life/faith life behind with Trinity (Baptism). like wise our earthly  life ends with Trinity

Every prayer starts with the Trinity and ends with the name of Trinity 

*4) Trinity and Sacraments*

All the sacraments are given in the name of the Trinity. 

There is no sacrament which is given without invoking the name of Trinity

So Trinity is the Divine Channel to fill us God's Grace.

*5) Sign of the Cross and Trinity*

It the Trinity which is invoked in the sign of the Cross

In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit - is referred in the sign of the Cross

It is the sign which is uses highest number of time in a day.

Our day starts with this sign and ends with same sign 

So we can imagine the role of Trinity in our day today life

*6) Trinitarian involvement in Love*

Jesus says Love your Lord, with all mind, with all your soul and with all your will

Three important dimensions of Human life,  mind, heart and will/soul/Spirit are very much necessary to Love God and others 

So Trinity is in the Love, and Love is in the Trinity

*7) How do I experience Trinity in my life?*

Trinity is very important for our life. 

In fact our life in involved in Trinity itself. If so what is my Involvement in Trinitarian Mission. 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How do I use the sacred temple area?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 8th Week -  Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 11:27-33*

*First Reading - Sir 51:12 cd-20*

*How do I use the sacred temple area*

*1) How did Jesus use the temple area*

First of all Jesus used this sacred temple area for prayer. Whenever He came to the temple He prayed for some time

Secondly Jesus used this temple area for proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God

Thirdly Jesus used the temple area to preach and teach the people about the values of the Kingdom of God

Fourthly Jesus also used this sacred area to recognise the great works of the unrecognised people. Example the poor widows mite

Jesus also used this place to heal people from their sickness, to correct people and to show them the right path

*2) The use of Temple area by Scribes, Pharisees and the Jewish Leaders*

First of all for them temple area had become a place of business and trading. Lots of business activities were going on in that place 

Secondly they used this sacred place to question Jesus and to find fault with Him. Today's Gospel is the best example for it. 

Thirdly they used this place to control and subjugate people in the name of God and religion 

They also used this place in many occasions to trap Jesus, to organise a plot against Jesus 

Holy place was used for unholy things by those people who were in authority

*3) The use of the temple area by simple pious people*

For them temple was a holy place, place of Gods presence and place of prayer 

They came to this place with great reverence, and with devotion to pray and to have God experience

They used this holy place to offer their mite and also their little offering 

In a way they used this place for God's mercy, to change their life and also for thier spiritual nourishment

*4) How do I use the temple area in my life?*

Many of us use this sacred area of the temple for praying, to have God experience, to grow in our spiritual life and to practice our faith life 

Many of us have great reverence to this place, since it helps us in our spiritual journey and makes our life meaningful.

But there are many who use this sacred place for various other purposes. The examples could be the following 

-Some use for personal glory 

-Some use for personal gain and for business 

-Some use this place for taking revenge on some one else

- Some use this place for achieving their selfish motives 

-Some use this place to exhibit their talents, skills, their power, wealth,  name and fame 

-Some use this place to get recognition, to get sympathies 

*5) Use of Temple area and my life?*

What is the significance of temple area in my life?

How do I make use of this place and for what? 

What is my attitude towards the temple area? 

What can I do to make use of this place for my spiritual growth and to lead a good life??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Important of entering into the Temple area of my life

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 8th Week -  Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 11:11-26*

*First Reading - Sir 44:1, 9-13*

*Important of entering into the Temple area of my life*

*1) Jesus in Jerusalem and in the Temple area*

Jerusalem is identified with the Temple. The great temple of Jewish people stood in Jerusalem, which was the symbol of God's presence and also the identity of Jewish people 

As a pious Jew, Jesus also came to Jerusalem many times to visit it and also to pray 

Today's Gospel makes a special mention of Jesus coming to Jerusalem and entering into the temple area. 

This particular gesture of Jesus has a deep relevance to our life 

*2) What happened by entering into the temple*

On entering into the temple, Jesus could see all the things that were happening there. 

Even though it was a place of prayer, it was converted as a market place or a business center

People those who were buying and selling were present, money changers were busy and various types of animals for business were kept there 

The temple had become the centre of business and not of prayer

*3) Jesus cleanses the Temple*

On entering into the temple, Jesus becomes active to drive put all that is which goes against the temple sanctity and spirituality

He drives out all those people and things and cleanses the temple 

After that He affirms that Temple is a place of prayer, which should not be turned into a den of robbers

*4) Jerusalem and Temple area in my life*

My life itself can be considered as Jerusalem, where the Temple of my life is existing. 

St Paul says that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor 6:19)

If so, our life has a special temple area, which is sacred and where God dwells. Such a place is nothing but our conscience

As Jesus visited the temple area, I need to visit very often this temple area, in order to see what is happening there

*5) Jesus in temple area. What about me?*

Since Jesus went into the temple area, He could see all those evil things, which were happening there. So it is very important to visit this area 

Unless I visit the temple area of my life, I will not be able to identity what is happening there. 

*6) Possible things could happen in the temple area of my life*

My conscience is my temple area. The following things could happen in this area 

-The pride may rule my life 

-Selfishness may take its root there 

-Anger, revenge, hatred, jealousy, pleasure, greed may start their business from there to destroy the sanctity of ones life 

Unless we drive out these things, they will rule our life, only to destroy the life

*7) Possible ways of entering into the Temple area*

-Examination of conscience

-Self evaluation

-Reflecting about ones own life, to see what is happening in life 

-Deep prayer and spiritual life

-Simplicity of life, moral way of life and living our life according to gospel standards

All these things will help us to enter into the temple area of my life and to cleanse, if there are any evil things in it

*If so am I ready to enter into the temple area of my life?*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Which are the voices/things/people rebuking me to remain silent in proclaiming the Christ to the World?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 8th Week -  Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 10:46-52*

*First Reading - Sir 42:15-25*

*Which are the voices/things/people rebuking me to remain silent in proclaiming the Christ to the World?*

*And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent.*

*1) The threat of the Crowd*

Bartimaeus the blind man was crying out to Jesus to receive a favour from the Lord. 

As Bartimaeus was crying out Jesus to have pity on him, and to be heard by Jesus, the crowd rebuked him to remain silent 

The crowd thought it was nuisance. So they rebuked him to remain silent 

*2) If Bartimaeus remained silent what would have happened?*

If Bartimaeus was to remain silent, he would have lost a golden opportunity of meeting Jesus and getting a great favour from the Lord. 

The crowd also would have lost the opportunity to the power of Jesus and the great miracle which took place in thier presence 

The crowd also would have lost the opportunity to witness, *if there a will there is a way to come out* from the life of Bartimaeus

Finally the crowd also got an opportunity to witness, how to be thankful to God, how to pray even in the midst of struggle and to carry out our mission from the life of Bartimaeus

*3) Bartimaeus' persistence in crying out Jesus*

Bartimaeus didn't care anyone to those who were rebuking him to be silent. He was determined to cry as loud as possible in spite of the threat from the crowd. 

His persistence also shows that he may not get this opportunity again. So he needed to use this occasion to change his life 

His persistence in crying also shows his faith and confidence in Jesus. 

*4) Jesus hears the genuine cry of Bartimaeus*

No one told Jesus about Bartimaeus. 

Even though there was a big crowd which was following Jesus along with a loud noise, still Jesus could hear the cry of this poor blind man 

This shows that God is ever ready to hear the genuine cry of the poor, and ever ready to come to their aid. 

*5) Jesus answered to the cry of Bartimaeus*

The genuine cry of Bartimaeus did not go in vain. 

The cry of Bartimaeus, finally made Jesus to stop and to restore the eye sight

This shows that God not only hears the every genuine cry of the children, but answerers them in a positive way 

*6) The possible things/voices which rebuke us to remain silent in crying out the Lord?*

Like the crowd which rebuked Bartimaeus to remain silent from crying to Jesus, in our life too the following things can at times rebuke us from crying out to Jesus 

Our slavery to sin 

Laziness and easy way of life 

Life, governed by the worldly standards

Pride, arrogance, revengeful attitude, anger, selfishness, greed etc 

Attachment to some things, places, people and our own thinking pattern may affect us  

*7) Bartimaeus fervour and my motivation*

Bartimaeus' fervour, interest or determination was so strong that it didn't allow him to sit idol, until he could achieve what he wanted to achieve 

What about my fervour? What about my interest? What about my determination? 

 Am I in any way close to Bartimaeus? 

*8) Am I ready to act like Bartimaeus?*

Bartimaeus is a great model for all of us, in exhibiting a great courage, confidence, a positive approach and strong faith in the Lord

Am I ready to imbibe these great Christian virtues from Bartimaeus? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I know what I am asking from the Lord?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 8th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mark 10:32-45*

*First Reading - Sir 36:1, 4-5a, 10-17*

*Am I know what I am asking from the  Lord?*

*Jesus says "You do not know what you are asking*

*1) James and John were asking for power and position*

Two of these disciples were asking with Jesus to grant them the opportunity  to sit on the right and left respectively 

To which Jesus tells them you do not know what you are asking 

How do we understand  this sentence of Jesus in our life?

*2) James and John asked the favour for self and not for others*

First of all their request a selfish purpose was there. They were calculating their own benefits  and selfish goal by achieving  the important  positions  in the kingdom of God

In fact it was their selfishness,  hidden motives,  and self centred attitude was asking this favour from Jesus 

It was not their real and genuine self that was asking these favours from the Lord. 

So Jesus says you do not know what you are asking.

*3) self centred attitude  and other centred attitude*

A person can have two types of attitudes. One is self centred attitude and the other one is other centred attitude. 

The self centred attitude is dominated and governed by selfishness,  pride, personal gain, power, position,  wealth,  greed, luxurious  life, pleasures of the world. 

The life which is dominated  by these things will crave for only these things and searches for only these things 

So these are the things which are not asked by the genuine self by the hypocrite  self. That is why Jesus says you do not know what you are asking for 

*4) The other centred self*

This self operated by the the genuine self, which always thinks of the wellbeing  of the other 

Love of the neigbhour  is the main principle under which it operates 

This self is dominated  by the values like, Humility, Forgiveness,  love, generosity,  Sharing,  sacrifice,  patience,  justice and truth. 

To think and act based on these values, one needs to elevate onself to the higher level of consciousness, which is nothing but the divine nature in us

The Human nature or animal nature in us makes us ignorant about what we are suppose to ask from the Lord

The divine nature or holiness makes us to realise what we should ask from the Lord 

*5) How does my self operates?*

Does it operates on the genuine self or on the hypocrite self? 

Does it operates on the self centred goals or other centred goals? 

Does it know, whether what it is asking for or does it ignorant about what it is asking about? 

Need to think seriously about it

*6) Am I aware of what I am asking from the Lord?*

God does not understand the language of anger. So don't use this language fur asking, because neither you will understand this language

God also does not give attention to the language of selfish interests, pride, revenge, greed, and other selfish attitudes. So not to use these languages while taking to the Lord

Use the language which God and you yourself can understand so that it becomes effective. 

We grow in our life, only when we understand what we ask for from the Lord

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What did Finally Peter give up?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 8th Week -  Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 10:28-31*

*First Reading - Sir 35:1-12*

*What did Finally Peter give up?*

*Peter began to say to Jesus,“We have given up everything and followed you.”*

*1) Peter gave up His business*

There is no doubt that Peter was a well trained fishermen who not only caught fish for his daily needs but also to make business out of it. 

In fact when Jesus called him he was busy with his work along with his friends. 

So when Jesus called Peter he left his business and followed Jesus 

*2) He gave up his things*

As we know that Peter was a fishermen he had few boats and other things, which he used for his daily work 

In order to follow Jesus he had to leave all these things and even leave the boats. Peter did leave these things and followed Jesus 

*3) Peter gave up his friends*

As a fishermen Peter had lots of friends from this folk. He might have had friends from other circles to since he was a well known fishermen 

Once again he had to leave all these things in order to follow Jesus 

*4) Peter gave up his family* 

Peter was a family man. He had his family members, with whom he lived. 

So when he decided to follow Jesus he had to sacrifice his family life in order to be with Jesus 

From the life of Peter we know that he gave up his family for the sake of Jesus 

*5) Peter gave up his property*

Even though the Gospel does not make a mention about it, it is sure that Peter has some property, in which he lived. 

He gave up his property in order to follow Jesus and to be with Jesus 

*6) Peter gave up his comfortable life*

As it appears that Peter had a comfortable life with his family and the fishing profession.

He gives up this comfortable life and decides to accept a new way of life, with Jesus along with many challenges

These challenges we can see in the life of Peter at various occasions

*7) Peter gave up his life*

Peter spent all his life once he followed Jesus for the spread of the kingdom of God. 

He went into different places, faced many challenges, suffered physical violence and mental torture and finally he was crucified upside down. 

So Peter even gave his precious life for Jesus. That is the height of his sacrifice

*8) Peter had given up everything*

As he proclaims in today's Gospel, that he had given up everything, it is 100% true that he had given up everything for the sake of Jesus 

There is no doubt about it. 

*9) What I have given up to follow Jesus*

Apart from the above mentioned material things we can also give the following things to follow Jesus 

I can give up my anger 

I can give up my jealousy

I can give up my selflessness

I can give up my revengeful attitude 

I can give up my pride 

I can give up ghetto mentality

I can give my narrow thinking 

I can give my attitude of self righteousness

I can give up my laziness

I can give up gossip mentality 

Also I can give up many other things. Think about it 

*Like Peter am I confident to say Jesus I have given up many things for your sake. What will I get?*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Mary the Mother of the Church - Why? Various Reasons

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 8th Week -  Monday

*GOSPEL -  Jn 19:25-34*

*First Reading - Gen 3:9-15, 20*

*Mary the Mother of the Church - Why? Various Reasons*

*1) The Birth of the Church*

Mary gave Birth to Jesus and through Jesus the Church came into existence. 

In other words Mary becomes the Woman who gives birth to Jesus and also to the Church. That is why she is the Mother of the Church 

*2) The First Church at the foot of the Cross*

At the foot of the Cross there were five people. They are Mary the mother of Jesus, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas,  Mary of Magdala, and the beloved disciple of Jesus 

Among these Mary becomes the reference point and others were standing along with Mary 

In other words Mary was a person who keeps them together and they also share the pain of Mary 

So She becomes the important person at the foot of the Cross, in the First Church 

*3) Mary on the Day of Pentecost*

Officially we say that Church was born on the day of Pentecost. 

On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles and also on Mother Mary 

In fact Mary becomes the powerful person to unite all scattered disciples and to bring them together 

So she is the one who organised the First Church and gave right direction to the Apostles to carry out the mission 

So Mary becomes the Mother of the Church

*4) Mary becomes the First disciple*

It is commonly accepted that Mary is the First Disciple.

So being the First disciple Mary enjoys the privilege of taking care of the Church with her Motherly Role 

So she is the Mother of the Church

*5) Role of the Mother*

A family survives when the mother is alive, even if the greatest disaster comes on the family. 

The mother will not allow the family to be destroyed, rather she will go to any extent, making all the sacrifices for the family 

The Motherly role played by Mary for over 2000 years has helped the Church to face any challenges and to withstand with any crisis.

If the Church is still existing today, its because of Mary's motherly care and interventions in the Church 

*6) Highest apparitions of Mary*

Over the last 2000 years Mary is the Person, who has appeared in this world, highest number of time 

Evey appearance of Mary is with a powerful message to the entire mankind, for the survival 

Her appearances has the direct influence on the Church and its mission 

Through her apparitions Mary is protecting, strengthening and showing the right direction to the Church 

So she is really a great mother of the Church 

*7) Mary is also my Mother, our Mother*

Mary's motherhood is not only seen in the Church but also in my own life 

In fact she is the mother of every Christian and the followers of Jesus 

As a Mother she protects us and shows the right direction to follow Jesus 

So let us thank God for Mary our beloved mother who always takes care of us 

Let's also live our life according to the standards of the Gospel, so that we can become the Holy children of our Heavenly Mother Mary 

*Wishing you and your dear ones a happy feast of Our Lady, Mary, the Mother of the Church*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance and the implications of breathing of the Holy Spirit on Apostles

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season :  Pentecost Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 20:19-23*

*First Reading - Acts 2:1-11*

*SECOND READING 1 Cor 12:3b-7, 12-13*

*Importance and the implications of breathing of the Holy Spirit on Apostles*

*1) Need and necessity of the breath*

Human life can't be sustained without the breath. The moment the breath is out the human being no longer survives. 

In other words breath is life itself. God gave life to Adam by putting breath into his nostrils

*Then the LORD God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.* Gen 2:7.

*2) Placing of Breath is the recreation by God*

In the Book of Genesis God created human being from dust and placed the breath of Life into his nostrils to become a living being 

Because of His fall, the entire human kind became slave to sin and finally lost the breath of life which could make him/holy 

That's why God had to recreate the human being by placing once again the breath of Life into his/her being 

So breathing of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles is equal to God placing the breath of Life into the nostrils of Adam 

Here through His Son Jesus Christ, God the Father recreates the Human being by breathing the Holy Spirit on the Apostles 

*3) The breath is the Holy Spirit*

The breathing on Apostles, by Jesus is not an ordinary breathing 

He breathed out His own divine life on Apostles, so that they may become life thier Master

So the breath is God Himself and through the breathing, God Himself came a dwelt among them 

*4) The Need of the Breath - Holy Spirit*

From the Gospel it is very clear that the breath is necessary for the following things 

*For Peace* As soon as Jesus appeared among them He said *Peace be with You*. One needs this divine  breath to create peace and to live with this peace 

*For the Ministry* : Jesus Says As the Father has sent me So I send you 

We have been sent by the Lord to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to build the Kingdom of God. This ministry is possible only through this breath - Holy Spirit

*To Forgive Sins*: One of the important things which is highlighted in today's Gospel. 

The breath is really necessary for the forgiveness of sins and to destroy the reign of Devil 

*5)  Special moment when the Holy Spirit is breathed on us*

*Baptism* The Holy Spirit is specially breathed on us, who give us new life in Christ

*Confirmation* A special sacrament and the special moment through which the Holy Spirit is fully breathed on us to profess our faith and to bear witness for the same

*Anointing of the Sick and Holy Orders* These sacraments once again give us the special privilege to receive the Holy Spirit

*Reconciliation, Eucharist, Matrimony* Through these sacraments also we receive the Holy Spirit

*6) I have been recreated by God through this divine breath*

How do I live my recreated life at present with the divine breath?

What is the influence of this divine breath in my life? 

Do I feel the presence of God within me though this divine breath? 

What are the things that my life exhibits to show or to prove that there is divine breath within me? 

*7) Pentecost is recreation of Human Being*

In every Pentecost event God tries to recreate the Human being by breathing on us the Holy Spirit

Tomorrow as we celebrate the Pentecost let's us remember that God is recreating us once again to give us better Holy life and let's cooperate with this divine recreation of our life 

*Let's live like a new recreated being in this world to bear witness to Christ*

*Wishing you a Happy and Grace filled feast of the Pentecost* 

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Will I be able to convert my life as a book to communicate the great works of the Lord?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 7th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 21:20-25*

*First Reading - Acts 28:16-20, 30-31*

*Will I be able to convert my life as a book to communicate the great works of the Lord?*

*1) Importance and need of the books*

Books are necessary to write, to preserve and to communicate to the future generations the great works and the mighty deeds, which influence the Human life

Usually all the religions have scriptures, which are preserved through the books 

Books are necessary to communicate the divine message and also the great inspirational works of good and great people 

Without books we can't preserve anything for long years 

*2) Jesus' mission and the books*

Jesus never wrote anything in the books. He went on doing good, healing, and preaching the good news of the Kingdom of God 

Only His disciples, who are called evangelists and St Paul and other apostles wrote all the good and great things, miracles of Jesus 

That is how we have today New Testament and we get great inspiration from this 

*3) Books are not sufficient to Write about Jesus' Work*

The Gospel makes it very clear that only few things about the life of Jesus and about His mission are recorded in the books 

The evangelist says *"There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written."*

So all things are not written and if one tries to write he/she may not be able to find sufficient books to record all these things 

So what is the alternative for this? 

*4) My Life needs to become a book*

Each of us life is like a book and our life should become like a book 

Since there are not sufficient books to describe about the great works of Jesus, I or my life needs to become like a book which can communicate the powerful message 

*5) When life becomes a book.....*

Like a book, Life can preserve things like a book, which can be read by others 

Like a book, life can inspire any one who reads from it 

Like a book, our life should help in deepening the knowledge, wisdom and great things about Jesus' life 

Like a book, the book of life could be used by anyone, without any distinction and discrimination

*6) The Great Challenge of Life to make it a book*

To make our life is like a book is not an easy task. It is really challenging and demanding

To convert our life and a holy book, to be read by others needs a lot of sacrifice, goodwill, upright way of life, humility, all the kingdom values 

Only those who have good discipline, moral uprightness and determination can really make their life as a holy Scripture

*7) My life - is it a good book or bad book*

Every ones life is like a book which communicates a lot of things to others

One can read lots of things from another's life.

If so what things people read from the book of my like? 

Is my life communicating good things to others and they are able to read the good things? 

Or is my life communicating bad things and people read in my life only negative and bad things? 

Is my life a good and inspirational book or is it a sad or bad book? 

What can I do more to make my life as the part of the holy Scripture? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Peter Do You Love me? - Why this question Three times?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : 7th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 21:15-19*

*First Reading - Acts 25:13b-21*

*Peter Do You Love me? - Why this question Three times?*

*1) Do You Love Me?*

Jesus asked this question to Peter three times. Why? What is the significance of it? 

*First Time : Do you Love me?*

When Jesus asked for the first time, Peter didn't think much about it 

He might have answered casually, but with firm determination, without any doubt

So there isn't anything special when he was asked for the first. As usual he answered the question

*Second Time : Do you love me?*

second time when Jesus asked the same question, Peter became little alert and began to think about the real meaning of the question

He might have thought that there is something special in the question, that is why Jesus is asking the same question

There is no doubt that the reaction of Peter was different than that of first time when he answered the same question second time 

*Third Time : Do You Love me?*

Third time when Jesus asked the same question,  the reaction of Peter was quite different 

Peter was disturbed when he heard the same question for the third time 

He felt a kind of pain in his heart when he heard the same words third time 

In a way he was not happy to hear these words for the third time 

He might have doubted once again whether Jesus believes in his words or not 

Above all the same words for the third time made Peter to think more about the question or to reflect about the deeper meaning and implications of the question

*2) Three times denial and three times affirmation*

Peter denied Jesus three times during the trial of Jesus 

The reaction of Peter is quite similar in the denial and in today's episode 

In the denial after the third time he realised his mistake, he was deeply troubled and he cried bitterly 

When the denial took place at the first and second time he didn't think much of it 

In today's episode the reaction of Peter is somewhat similar. 

Only when Jesus asked third time Peter was disturbed and underwent some kind of pain 

So three times denial was nullified by three times affirming that he really Loves Jesus 

*3) Three is a perfect Number*

Number 3 is one of the most important numbers through Bible, it is a number of harmony, of God's presence and of completeness. 

 Number 3 is the number of eternal life, as he was resurrected after three days of being dead.

 Three people saw the Holy Transfiguration of Jesus, they were” Peter, John and James.

So this question asking three times has its own relevance

*4)Three times means something special and important*

When something is asked again and again it appears that something is very important and has something to do at present 

So one needs to pay attention to the things when it is asked for third time 

*5) Three times asked question revealed great Truth*

The simple question *Do You love me* finally revealed great truths about Peters life 

What type of ministry Peter will have, what types challenges he will face and how he will bear witness to the Lord, through His martyrs is clearly reflected in the above question

So it revealed great truths about Peter's life

*6) Do you Love me is not a easy question to answer*

Even though the question appears to be very simple, the answer to this question is very difficult and challenging one 

It is challenging because the answer involves our very life itself 

Answer to the above question involves, our commitment, disciplined way of life, holiness, sacrifice, courage, goodwill to follow Jesus, humility, selflessness, kindness, forgiveness, and all other kingdom values 

So our life itself is an answer to this question. That is why it is difficult and challenging

*7) What is my answer?*

The same Lord asks the same question to me. What is my response? 

Am I irritated to listen to this question? 

Am l afraid to answer this question?

Do I feel that it is an irrelevant question to my life?

Do I answer this question in a superficial way?

Do I ignore this question in my life? 

Or am I comfortable with this question? 

Do I feel happy to listen and answer this question? 

Do I feel that it is an opportunity to bear witness to my Lord? 

Do I feel that this way is the real way to happiness and blessed life? 

Has my life really involved in answering this question?

Think about it and answer to this question?

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Father, they are your gift to me" Whom do I consider as greatest gift in my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : 7th Week -  Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 17:20-26*

*First Reading - Acts 22:30; 23:6-11*

*Father, they are your gift to me*

*Whom do I consider as greatest gift in my Life?*

*1) Jesus considered the disciples as Father's Gift to Him*

In today's Gospel Jesus makes it very clear that all the disciples whom He chose considers them as Father's gift to Him 

They are gift because they willingly offered themselves to His service and to Follow him whole heatedly

They are gift because they will be ready even to lay down their lives for His sake 

They are gifts because they will spend their life to proclaim His message and build the Kingdom of heaven on this earth 

*2) Jesus also considers all those who follow Him as the Father's gift*

After the Apostles there are millions and millions of people who follow Jesus 

For more than 2000 years they have followed Him. Today there are billions of people who Follow Jesus 

In the Future there will be billions and billions of people who will follow Him 

All these are Father's gift to Him

*3) Me and You are the Father's greatest gift to Jesus*

Yes. This is the greatest truth that we need to accept 

Father  has given you and me as the previous gift to Jesus. That is why everyone is precious to Jesus 

In this context Jesus goes in search of even the one which was lost leaving the 99 in safe place 

That's why Jesus says *“Of those whom You gave Me I have lost none.”* John 18:9

*4) Who are the greatest God's gift to me?*

We need to ask this question again and again in our life to find out who are the genuine God's gift to us. Some of the things may be the following 

My Parents 

My family members 

My life 

All the five senses with its extraordinary powers 

My reasoning power 

My freedom 

My Christian life 

My willingness to serve others 

My talents and skills 

My leadership qualities

My wealth 

My Health 

Willingness to face the challenges

Courage in the moments of crisis

*5) Use of the God given Gifts*

Jesus used all the gifts to build the kingdom of God and to serve the poor 

He didn't use it for the selfish purpose or hidden motives 

What about me? 

How do I use these God given gifts in my life? 

The more I use these gifts build the kingdom of God and to serve others they become richer and thier purpose is achieved. 

Let's use our intelligence to use the God given gifts to serve the poor, and to build the Kingdom of God.

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of Consecrating oneself in Truth

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 7th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 17:11b-19*

*First Reading - Acts 20:28-38*

*Importance of Consecrating oneself in Truth*

*Jesus says "Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth"*

*1) Meaning of the Consecration*

Consecration means 

officially making something holy and able to be used for religious ceremonies

Consecration makes a thing or a person, to be separated from the rest of the things or people for a special purpose 

In simple words, A person or a thing set apart or kept apart for a holy purpose

*2) All Christians are consecrated Persons*

The sacrament of Baptism makes us consecrated persons. 

We are consecrated through the Holy Oils and the seal of Baptism makes us consecrated persons forever.

Once the consecration which takes place in the Baptism, can't be erased, but we remain consecrated persons forever. 

*3) Consecration In Truth*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about consecrating oneself with the Truth 

So far we have heard about consecrating through the Holy Oils. But Jesus speaks about consecrating oneself in Truth 

What is the importance of this? 

*God is Truth* Truth is another name for God. Wherever there is Truth, there is God and wherever there is God, there is Truth 

*I Am the Truth* Jesus boldly says that I am the Truth and Life. 

So consecrating oneself in Truth means, one is consecrated, or made holy by God Himself. 

There is a presence of Jesus in the consecrated persons.

*4) Effects of consecration in Truth*

Once a person is consecrated in Truth, the Truth works in the person 

It is the Truth that guides and shows the way 

It is the truth that enlightens and brightens ones path 

It is the Truth that gives us courage and hope 

So all the good and holy things take place once a person is consecrated in Truth

*5) Ways of Consecrating the Person in Truth*

The Sacrament of Baptism is the foundations for the consecration in Truth 

The Sacrament of Confirmation makes this consecration firm and strong 

The sacrament of penance, Eucharist and anointing of the Sick 

The sacrament of Holy orders is a special sacrament which makes people sacred for sacred or religious purpose 

The sacrament of Matrimony

All these sacraments are nothing but the various ways through which we are consecrated in Truth.

*6) Ways of Living our Consecrated Life*

As we know that all of us are consecrated in Truth. We need to live this consecration in our day today life. Following are the some of the ways 

Living our life according to the values of Christ

Commitment in doing our work and mission 

Following the principles of Truth, justice, and fighting for the same 

The values like humility, sharing, sacrificed, forgiveness, service, Martyrdom, are some of the visible and powerful ways to live our consecrated life in Truth

*7) Am I living my life according to the Consecration?*

There is no doubt that we are consecrated persons

But the question is am I living my life according to this consecration? 

What is the role of Truth in my life? 

Is Truth ruling my life or I rule the Truth according to my whims and fancies or selfish motives? 

*Think about it*

*Let's remember that we are consecrated in Truth - it means consecrated in God.*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How to Glorify God in our life?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : 7th Week -  Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 17:1-11a*

*First Reading - Acts 20:17-27*

*How to Glorify God in our life?*

*Jesus says "I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do"*

*1) How did Jesus glorify God on this Earth*

In today's Gospel Jesus clearly says that *He Glorified God by Accomplishing the mission which was given to Him*

The mission of Jesus is nothing but to save the entire human kind through His passion, death and resurrection

By accomplishing the God given mission by laying down His precious life, Jesus Glorified Father on this earth and the Father Glorified the Son by raising Him from the death

*2) Glorifying God is the Primary mission of Our life*

We have been sent by God, to this world with a specific mission

The mission is to Glorify God through our Christian life and through living the values of Jesus in our life and bearing witness to His name 

As a follower of Jesus, the primary purpose of our life is to Glorify Jesus and through Him Glorify the Triune God

*3) What is the mission of my life?*

It is very important to reflect what is the mission through which I am suppose to Glorify God? 

First of all we need to remember that we are Christians, who have a special mission to live our life according to the values of Christ. 

By adopting the values of Christ, we can definitely glorify the name of Jesus 

Secondly, God has called us to live a special way of life: For example either a religious life, or family/married life or a single life  

According to this way of life, we have certain responsibility to carry out. Remaining faithful to this way of life and doing our responsibilities faithfully is one of the best ways to glorify God in our life 

Thirdly, we have been called to proclaim the Good News of Christ in life. By living our Christian life according to God's commandments will help us to spread the Good News of Christ and to Glorify God 

Fourthly, the Following ways are very powerful gestures to glorify God in our lives 

Life of forgiveness

Life of service

Life of generosity

Life of sharing 

Life filled with humility, care, concern, love, justice and truth 

Life filled with the love of neighbour, other centred approach, reaching out others in their needs 

*4) How do I glorify God in my life?*

Am I faithful to the God given mission in my life? 

Is life a witness to Christ or a counter witness to Christ? 

Am I building the Kingdom of God through the talents, skills and other capacities, which have given by God or am I building my own image, name, selfish motives through God given talents and skills?

How do I offer my life for the Service of others? 

The answers to the above questions will help us to know whether we are glorifying God through the God given mission in our life or not

*Just reflect about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Christian life is always with a challenge. It is not a easy life to live

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : 7th Week -  Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:29-33*

*First Reading - Acts 19:1-8*

*Christian life is always with a challenge. It is not a easy life to live*

*Jesus Says "In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”*

*1) The Life in the World is always with the Trouble*

Living our life in this world is always with troubles. One can't avoid such troubles in ones life 

There is no sea without the  waves and storm. Likewise no life is possible in this world without facing the troubles 

But as a Christian, our life is prone to more troubles and problems because of the values of Christ

*2) Jesus life in this World was full of Troubles*

When we see the life of Jesus, it was full of troubles and challenges

The very conception and birth was faced with many challenges and troubles 

The public ministry of Jesus had to face many troubles from various groups of people 

Finally we see in the passion, crucifixion and death of Jesus, we see full of troubles and persecutions which Jesus faced 

All these happened to Jesus because He lived in this world, and the world, which Jesus lived is filled with various troubles and problems

*3) Jesus has conquered this troubled world*

Jesus himself says *"I have conquered the world.”*

Jesus has conquered the World, by facing the world, by facing all the troubles 

It is not by avoiding the troubles or running away from the troubles He has conquered the world, but by boldly facing it, He has conquered the World

So there is only one way to conquer this troubled world, that is to face it and to challenge it. In this regard Jesus is our model 

*4) The present World is full of Troubles*

There are always troubles in the world. But in this time of the World History we are facing the worst troubles in the World, which have affected the human life very badly 

First of the troubles created by COVID19 has devastated the human life in the entire world 

Secondly the Floods that take place in the world today also made us to face many troubles 

Thirdly the Wars which are taking place in the world today, terrorism, fundamentalism, nasty fight for political power, caste system, persecution based on the religion, color and culture have really put human life in trouble. 

So these are the troubles which we are supposed to face and conquer the World 

*5) Life's troubles from Inside*

More than the troubles from outside, life faces more troubles from inside 

*The temptations of Flesh* This trouble is coming from inside which is devastating the human life in the world today. We need to be very careful about it today 

The other troubles like, greed for power, position, wealth, name, authority, temptations of food, clothing, and various luxurious life style has put the human life into great trouble 

So more than the troubles which are coming from outside, life in the world is threatened by the troubles from within our life 

*6) Take courage I have conquered the World*

 

In spite of all these troubles, Jesus never gave up His fight

He was never frightened about the troubles either from out side or from inside, but He faced with courage 

The aspect of courage is very important in this troubled world 

Only those who have tremendous courage can win over this troubled world. 

Jesus is the model in this fight. 

As a Christian we need to fight in the troubled world, in order to conquer this world. 

*Think about this*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The power of the disciples who believe in Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : 7th Week - Sunday*

*The Ascension of the Lord*

*GOSPEL -  Mark 16:15-20*

*First Reading - Acts 1:1-11*

*Second Reading - Eph 4:1-7, 11-13*

*The power of the disciples who believe in Jesus*

*1) Jesus' Command to the Disciples*

As Jesus was about to ascend to heaven He gives a special command to His disciples. He says *Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature*

When He gave this command, he also have them special power to proclaim the Kingdom of God 

The special power which Jesus gave to His disciples include the following things 

*A) In my name they will drive out demons*

In the present day context the following demons have become powerful. We need to drive them out.

The demon of falsehood

The demon of arrogance

The demon of revenge 

The demon of selfishness 

The demons pride and greed 

The demon of anger and division

The demon of power and wealth 

All these demons we need to drive out in order to build the Kingdom of God

*B) They will speak new languages*

The language is a very essential and very powerful means of communication. Without language we can do nothing. 

So a person who believes in Jesus is able to speak the following languages 

The language of Love 

The Language of forgiveness

The language of humility

The language of sacrifice

The language of truth and justice 

The language of sharing 

The language of service 

The language of laying down ones life for another 

These are the powerful languages which are very much  necessary in today's world 

*C)  They will pick up serpents with their hands*

Serpent is very dangerous creature to hold. Since it is poisonous one can't play with it 

But one who believes in Jesus is able to pick up the serpents in their hands 

The serpent of Gossip

The serpent of persecution

The serpent of noncooperation 

The serpent of jealousy

The serpent of targeting someone for good things 

All these serpents will not be able to survive in the hands of those who believe in Jesus 

*D) If they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them*

Drinking of any deadly thing will harm ones life. But to those who believe in Jesus, it will not harm in any way 

The deadly thing of misunderstanding

The deadly thing of loneliness 

The deadly thing of taking risks for the sake of Jesus 

The deadly thing of suffering for truth and justice

The deadly thing of betrayal by those who are close to us 

The deadly thing of finding fault with everything

All these things have no power when we firmly believe in Jesus and work for His mission 

*2)  Am I ready to offer myself for the mission of the Lord*

The same Lord who commanded His disciples to the world to proclaim His mission, today with the same command sending me and you for the mission 

What is my response? 

Am I ready for this mission 

How can I prepare myself for the mission of the Lord? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Things those make our Joy complete

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 6th Week -  Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:23b-28*

*First Reading - Acts 18:23-28*

*Things those make our Joy complete*

*Jesus says "ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete."*

*1) We need to ask those things which make our Joy Complete*

Jesus Himself says *Ask you will receive*

But we need to ask one question? What things are we asking in our day today life?

Jesus clearly says that we need to ask those things which will generate the lasting joy and not a momentary Joy

*2) Things those generate the Lasting Joy*

The following things can be listed in the above group

*Good and moral life* This type of life is very challenging, but ultimately it generates the joy which lasts forever 

*Disciplined and value based life* Once again such a upright life creates the joy which lasts forever 

*Holy Life* We have been called to live a holy life. Such a life is the foundation of lasting joy 

*Various Christian Virtues*

Life of Forgiveness

Life of Sacrifice

Life of Sharing 

Life of Service to the needy 

Life of Truth and Justice

Life of concern for the other 

Life of peace 

Life of selflessness

Life of generosity

Life of deep faith, hope and genuine love 

Life filled with prayers, and sacramental life 

All these above aspects in our life create a lasting and complete joy

*3) Worldly things and Joy*

Many of us have a wrong perception that worldly things give us complete joy 

But so far in the history of the World not even a single person whose joy was complete and lasting because of the best worldly things and possessions

So from this it is very clear that no worldly things will give us complete and lasting joy 

*4) What do we ask in our day today life?*

Jesus says *Whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.*

What do we ask? 

Some people ask for money, power, position, highest social security etc 

Some ask, beauty, easy life, worldly pleasures etc 

Some people desire knowledge, talents and skills only for the selfish purposes and to get a name 

Such self centred prayers are not heard by God, and  God never answers such prayers 

*5) Until now you have not asked anything in my name*

What things have I asked for in Jesus' name? 

Are those things give us the complete joy, which was promised by Jesus 

We need to reflect seriously the above sentence in order to see whether our prayers are filled with right spirit or not

*Think about it*

*Lord Help me to pray for those things which give me the lasting and complete Joy*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The nature of Father's Love

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 6th Week -  Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:9–17*

*First Reading - Acts 1:15–17, 20–26*

*The nature of Father's Love*

*As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love*

*1) Total Sacrificing Love*

The first characteristic of God's love is sacrifice. It is not an ordinary sacrifice. It is the total and ultimate sacrifice

The total sacrifice is seen in the words of John's Gospel 3:16. *God so loved the world He gave His only Son*

Sacrificing His only beloved Son, something great 

Jesus also showed the same for of love by totally sacrificing His life on the Cross

*2) Love which leads to lay down ones life for the Friend*

God's Love is seen in allowing His son to lay down His life for the sake of the World 

On the part of Jesus, He willingly laid down His life for the salvation of the World

So God's love is characterised by laying down His life for the salvation of the world 

*3) Love which builds up friendship and equality*

God's love has the quality of building up the strong friendship and equality 

Jesus says I call you friends and you are no longer slaves. Only a genuine love will allow another person to consider as friend

So God's love based on strong feeling of friendship, which facilitates a genuine relationship

*4) Love which shows mercy and forgiven*

God's love is always filled with the aspect of mercy and forgiveness

In the parable of the Prodigal Son these aspects of God's love become very clear 

Even Jesus' Love is based on the aspect of mercy and forgiveness

*5) Love which endures suffering*

Genius love always endures suffering 

The aspect of suffering is very much found in God's love 

God also suffered to love the human being - sacrificing His beloved Son was a great suffering for God 

Dying on the Cross also the greatest suffering which Jesus went through His life 

All these sufferings have meaning only in the context of Love 

*6)Unconditional Love*

There are no conditions applied to God's love 

God does not say that only  if you fulfill these things, I will love you 

God's love goes beyond all the conditions, that is why God's love is called, unconditional love 

*7) Love which goes beyond all human standards*

The Logic of Gods love goes beyond all human standards 

He leaves 99 and goes in search of 1

He choses not the elite and intelligent people, but the ordinary fishermen 

He goes in search of the sinners and not the righteous one 

He offers His own life rather than demanding some one else's life 

He goes to the poor, sick, marginalized, and not to the rich and influenced one

To become first one should become last and to become great one should become the servant 

This is the standards of God's love 

*8) What about my Life and Love?*

After having understood the nature of God's love, what is the nature of my life? 

Is it a selfish love? Or self centred love? 

Or love based on the wellbeing of the other? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What is this ‘little while’ of which he speaks?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : 6th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:16-20*

*First Reading - Acts 18:1-8 or Acts 1:1-11*

*What is this ‘little while’ of which he speaks?*

*How to understand and manage this "Little While"*

*1) The meaning of the Little While*

The phrase "for a little while" means "for a short time". 

"For a little while" is more common and natural than "for a short time" in conversation.

In the context of the bible it refers to the death and burial of Jesus 

*2) A little while and you will no longer see me*

This *little while* refers to three days after the death of Jesus and till the resurrection of Jesus 

It  was a short period of time, during which the disciples could not see Jesus 

As Jesus said, *You will no longer see me* became a reality, when Jesus died on the Cross and buried in the tomb 

*3) And again a little while later and you will see me.*

This phrase refers to the post resurrection experience of the disciples 

After three days when Jesus rose from the death on the Easter Sunday, some of His disciples were able to see and they were thrilled to see the risen Lord 

So after a short period of time they were able to see Jesus again which gave them new experience

*4) How did the disciples manage the Little While?*

In fact this *Little while* became very challenging time or situation in the life of the disciples

Some of them got confused, some of them were shocked, some of them gave up their entire hope, some of them were  returning to their old trade and one committed suicide

So the management of *little while* really became very tough challenge in thier lives 

*5) No one can escape the experience of Little While*

The experience of *little while* is part and parcel of our lives 

It is very hard to cross our life without having experience of little while 

One has to go through this experience on his/her life 

But the response to the experience of *little while* is very important in our lives 

*6) How do I react to the experience of little while?*

There is no doubt that the experience of little while is very challenging in our life 

It is a kind of spiritual dryness in our life 

It is an experience where we feel that God is not with us 

It is an experience where we feel the silence of God in our misery 

It is an experience where we feel that our prayers are not heard by God 

This experience is the part and parcel of our life 

But what is my response? 

Do I grumble at the situation and question God?

Do I make God as responsible for the situation?

Do I give up my hope, faith, and humility and do my own will? 

Do I feel that my God is not responding to my prayers and I grumble at it? 

What is my response? 

How do I manage a *little while* in my life?

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

He (The Holy Spirit) will glorify me - Whom are we Glorifying?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 6th Week -  Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:12-15*

*First Reading - Acts 17:15, 22-18:1*

*He (The Holy Spirit) will glorify me - Whom are we Glorifying?*

*1) What is Glorification?*

Glorification means the action of describing or representing something as admirable

It also understood as the way through which we praise and worship God

So glorification is something which is reserved to God only and not applied to the Human beings 

*2) Holy Spirit Glorifies Jesus and God the Father*

The Gospel clearly says that the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus will send, will Glorify Him in all the Aspects 

The Holy Spirit will inspire the Human beings to Glorify Jesus. So it is very important that we need the assistance of the Holy Spirit to Glorify Jesus

*3) How does Holy Spirit Glorify Jesus?*

*First of all the Holy Spirit will lead all, to the light of Truth*

Enlightening everyone to the truth itself is the way of Glorifying Jesus 

In fact Jesus says *I am the Truth* so leading all human beings to Truth means leading every one to Jesus 

Once people are led to Jesus they will accept Jesus as Lord and Master. So this will lead to the Glorification of Jesus. 

*Secondly : Communicate what is heard from Jesus*

*He will guide you to all truth.He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears*

*He will take from what is mine and declare it to you*

Holy Spirit does not speak on His own. He speaks the same message of Jesus 

Speaking what Jesus said and practicing  it is the best way of Glorifying Jesus 

*4) How do we Glorify Jesus?*

The Gospel of the days shows us the various ways of Glorifying Jesus 

First of all listening to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, who leads us to Truth

Secondly speak what is heard from Jesus  - speak the Gospel message 

Thirdly practice the Gospel in our day today life - this is the best way of glorifying Jesus 

Living the Gospel values is the best way of Glorifying Jesus

 

*5) Am I Glorifying Jesus?*

At times there may be tendency in us to glorify the self rather than Jesus 

Self Glorification becomes a powerful hurdles in living the values of the Gospel 

How do I counter attack this temptation in my life. 

Think about it 

Christian life is meant for Glorifying God and not for self glorification

Am I ready for this mission? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Where are You Going?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 6th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:5-11*

*First Reading - Acts 16:22-34*

*Where are You Going?*

*1) One of the important Questions of Life*

This becomes important question because it makes us to think where one is going

It shows the direction and purpose of ones life 

When some one asks this question, it really makes us to think and we become aware of our destination

This question either can be asked as *Where am I going?* 

Or 

*Where are you going?*

*2) Jesus Knew where He was going*

In the Gospel, this question is referred to Jesus and His destiny 

Jesus says that He is going to the who has sent Him - that is the Father Himself

So Jesus knew His destiny very clearly and He also tells us that where we have to go and where is our destiny

*3)Disciples had no idea where Jesus was going and where they were going*

In fact disciples had no idea where Jesus was going 

For disciple Jesus' going was a kind of departure, which will have a terrible consequences

So there were on the one side frightened and worried and on the other side they were not clear where Jesus is going and the purpose of His Going 

*4) Importance of knowing Where I am going?*

It tells us whether we are on the right side or not 

It tell us and makes us to reflect about the purpose and destiny of our life 

It also can inspire the other person if our purpose, and destiny has very high value 

*5) Where I need to go in my life?*

This is also very important to reflect in our life 

The answer to the above question is the life and destiny of Jesus' life 

The destiny of our life is blessed life, holy life, a life based on kingdom values and finally the eternal life 

So we need to go to this side or our destiny should be the kingdom of God

*6) How can I go, where I am supposed to go?*

The way is very simple to achieve the destiny of our life 

By adopting the Kingdom values one can move towards where one is supposed to reach 

The kingdom values like, forgiveness, humility, love, sacrifice, sharing are the sign post which show us the right direction to reach the destiny

*7) Right now which side I am moving?*

Our life is not static. It is still on move. If so it is very important to know where I am going or to which side my life moves? 

Is my journey in the right direction? 

Even if I move very slow, but my destiny is right then I need not worry 

On the other hand even though my life moves very fast, but in a wrong direction, then I may not reach the goal at all 

So it is very important to check where I am moving right now?

Think about it? 

*Finally where I am going?*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Holy Spirit as the Advocate

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : 6th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:26-16:4a*

*First Reading - Acts 16:11-15*

*The Holy Spirit as the Advocate*

*1) The Role of the Advocate*

Advocate is a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy.

Advocate is a person who also fights for another, defends another, and sees that the other person is safe and sound 

Advocate is a publicly known person, whose aid is sought, when we are in trouble, or in crisis. 

*2) Holy Spirit as an advocate*

The Holy Spirit plays the role of a Advocate. It means the following 

He will fight for our cause 

He will defend us in every situation

He will see all the possible means to remain in our side to support us 

He will speak on our behalf 

He will act on our behalf 

He will argue on our behalf 

He will guide us in all our endeavors 

He will see that we win all the cases

He will not let down in any case

Such is the support and guidance of the Advocate 

*3) Advocate is the powerful person*

When there is a problem or case in our life, advocate plays a very important role 

Advocate is the first person, whom we look for, to proceed with our work 

In all the angles he becomes very important in our life, when there is a problem

If the advocate is very good and powerful, one can win any case

So when Holy Spirit, plays the role of an Advocate,  He becomes a powerful person and sees that, we will all the cases. He also plays all the above mentioned role for our sake.

*4) Advocate shows all the Possible ways to fight the case*

As we know that advocate is the one who shows all the possible ways to fight the case 

He also invents the new ways through which we can fight for our case 

So the Holy Spirit shows all the possible ways and invents the new ways to fight for our cases. 

*5) Christians need an Advocate*

Since our life involves many challenges, problems and persecution in life, we need an advocate in pur life 

There is no way, that we can avoid persecutions in our life. Jesus Himself says that there will be persecutions and the World will hate us. 

So to defend ourselves and to defend our Christian faith we need the help of the Advocate. 

*6) Jesus as promised us an Advocate*

As the followers of Jesus, we need not fear about anything in life, when it comes to bear witness to Christ

Jesus Himself says that, He himself will send us an advocate and He will always with us 

When we are dragged, persecuted, threatened for our faith, we need not worry about the same, because the Advocate, The Holy Spirit will speak and defend on our behalf. 

So we need to be thankful to God, for this great privilege

*7)  As the Holy Spirit is the Advocate, we need to become advocates to others*

One of our missions in life is to play the role of the Advocate

It means we must become the persons, we defend the faith, who fights for another who always shows ways and means to remain firm in our convictions. 

So are you ready to play the role of the Advocate? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*