Reality of Hunger, Need of food and the Bread of Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 18th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Jn 6:24-35*

*First Reading - Ex 16:2-4, 12-15*

*SECOND READING - Eph 4:17, 20-24*

*Reality of Hunger, Need of food and the Bread of Life*

*1) Hunger is the Reality*

Among all other things, hunger takes very important role in the life of Human beings

Hunger is something, which is a reality and it is not something which is imaginary thing 

Since every one experiences the hunger, everyone knows what is hunger

*2) Hunger and Thirst can't be postponed*

There are many things in life, which we can postpone. But hunger is a reality which can't be postponed

To the person who is suffering from hunger, one can't say you eat next week or food is not necessary. Like wise to a person one who is thirsty, one can't say that he/she need not drink water. 

So hunger and thirst are something which can't be postponed

*3) Human beings can't survive without food and drink*

Food and drink are two basic needs of human beings. 

Without these things, no one can survive. So one can imagine the need and necessity of food and drink 

From this imagery, Jesus gives us a powerful message or lesson 

*4) Jesus says I am the bread of Life*

When Jesus says that He is the bread of life, He equates Himself with the Bread. From this we can conclude the following lessons for our lives

A) First of all as we know that we can't survive without food, we also can't survive with out Jesus and Eucharist

B) Bodily hunger is a reality, there is no doubt about it. Like wise the spiritual thirst is also a reality. Like body becomes hungry, soul/Spirit also becomes hungry 

C) We struggle a lot to satisfy our bodily hunger. Likewise we need to struggle to satisfy our spiritual hunger 

D) Bodily hunger can't be satisfied by eating ones. Like wise the hunger of the soul can't be satisfied by doing little 

E) Without food and drink death is certain. Without Jesus and Eucharist, spiritual death is certain

F) There are no alternative things for food and drink. Like wise there are no alternate things for Jesus and Eucharist

G) Water and Food gives us new life. Like wise, Jesus and the Eucharist gives us new life, a holy life and a blessed life 

Like food and drink do I also desire Jesus and Eucharist to satisfy my spiritual hunger/thirst??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The need of Rising from the dead, to have active/holy powers in us

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17Saturday Week - *

*GOSPEL - Mt 14:1-12*

*First Reading - Lv 25:1, 8-17*

*The need of Rising from the dead, to have active/holy powers in us*

*1) John was beheaded by Herod*

Bible makes it very clear that Herod beheaded John the Baptist for defending the Truth and condemning the evil and immoral life of Herod 

The purpose of beheading John was to silence John's voice and to Hide hide evil deeds 

Herod succeeded in beheading John for His upright and Holy life, but whether he succeeded in completely silencing John was a big question

*2) Herod saw John in Jesus*

The narration in the Gospel makes it very clear that Herod saw the powers of John in Jesus and he was seeing John in Jesus 

This makes it very clear that Herod could not succeed in putting an end to Johns life 

John became more powerful after His death. That's why Herod says *He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him.*

*3) Need of death in order to rise*

Rising always presupposes the death 

Herod saw something great after the death of John, that is the mighty powers which have become live 

So death of one thing, give rise to many other things. Without death there is no rising. 

So this is also very important

*4) Death and Rising in our Life*

The principle of Death and Rising is very much applicable to our life 

We need to die in our life, to certain things, which helps us to rise in many things in our life, which ultimately helps us to activate some creative powers in our lives. Such powers helps us to live a holy and genuine life 

Those who are frightened to die, in life to certain things can't rise in life and they will be unable to activate the creative powers in their lives 

*5) What are the things we need to die in our lives*

We need to die to our selfishness

We need to die to our pride 

We need to die to our anger

We need to die to our revengeful attitude, ego, self centeredness, jealousy, bodily pleasures, excessivd desire for wordly things, money, power, position, arrogance, etc 

The moment we die to these things in our life, we are ride again in the following things 

We will rise aagin in humility, forgiveness, simplicity, sincerity, love, sacrifice, selflessness, truth, justice, patience, service, wisdom, spirituality etc 

The life which witnesses in rising these things in life, brings along with them the creative powers, which make us holy, genuine, sincere and courageous persons 

*6)To Which are the things I need to die in my Life?*

This is very important and serious question 

Unless we die no life, and no creative powers 

If so, will I be ready to die to certain things in my life? 

How can I use the principle of death-Rising-birth of mighty powers 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*

How do I known to the Other?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 13:54-58*

*First Reading - Lv 23:1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34b-37*

*How do I known to the Other?*

*Joseph was known as best carpenter*

*1) Joseph was known as the carpenter in the vicinity*

First of all Joseph was carpenter by profession. 

If people have referred Joseph as carpenter, its very clear that Joseph was more known as carpenter than anything else 

Every one could locate Joseph exactly, when some one referred as carpenter

It means Joseph was one of the best Carpenters of that place. There is no doubt about it 

*2) To know one by profession, is really great*

Usually people are known by their names. 

But very few people are known by their profession or work 

If some one is known by profession means, it speaks about their perfection in work, expertise in their field, integrity in their work etc.

The very fact, that Joseph was known by his profession, it speaks about his expertise, perfection, integrity, generosity, involvement in the work

*3) To know one by his/her profession is not easy*

It is really a hard work, and some times it may take years together to be known by ones profession

There is no short cut to excel in ones profession, other than hard work, sacrifice and sincerity in work 

All those who are known by their profession are really hardworking people and their profession is the reflection of their personality

*4) Great people are known as saints in the Church*

We have many people who are known as saints 

The title saint is given to a person for their selfless service,  hard work, fighting for justice and trying to build the Kingdom of God.

The title *Saint* itself shows the integrity of the person, their mission, their sacrifice, their love for the poor and marginalised, etc.

*5) People are known to the other either for their good deeds or bad deeds*

Very few people are known by their profession, in a positive way 

But there are also known by bad profession, because of their evil deeds 

Some people are known as thieves, heartless persons, cruel persons, hypocrites, because of their misdeeds

Some people are also known as Hitler, for their cruelty 

*6) How do I known to the other?*

Joseph was known as carpenter

Peter was known as rock 

Judas was known as the traitor

Mother Theresa is known as the saint of the Gutter

*What about me?*

Am I known by my profession?

Am I called a good teacher, good religious, loving neighbor, forgiving person, generous, kind, etc. 

How do people know me or address me?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Wonderful Side of Martha's Life*

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Jn 11:19-27 or Lk 10:38-42*

*First Reading - Ex 40:16-21, 34-38*

*Feast of St Martha*

*The Wonderful Side of Martha's Life*

*1) A grand Welcome*

The Gospel of the day starts with the gesture of welcome

When Jesus entered the house of Martha, it was she who welcomed Jesus with a warm greeting 

Welcome is something which makes a person to feel at ease and it builds the relationship

In a way we can say that Martha appears as a icon of welcome, by welcoming Jesus into her house 

*2) A genuine Spirit of Service*

The Gospel says that Martha was burdened with Service 

The entire focus of her service was the person of Jesus

She wanted to give best service to Jesus, so she was ready to do anything 

She was ready to take any load, for the sake of Jesus 

Service is at the centre of Christian Spirituality. If there is no service, then there is no Christian life 

Martha is an inspiration to all of us for service 

*3) Spontaneous in expressing her views*

Another important aspect of Martha's life was spontaneity

She was spontaneous in expressing her joys, pains, suffering and even hurt feelings 

She didn't hide anything, but expressed all her feelings as they are 

Spontaneity is very important for a good and holy life 

*4) Active in whatever She does*

In fact Martha was a very active person and not a lazzy person 

She active in welcoming, in serving, in making the guest comfortable in any situation

It is Martha, who appears to be very active in entire episode and she does lots of work, to make the guest comfortable

Activity is at the centre of Martha's life.

*5) Martha is ready to accept others help*

Martha asks Jesus to ask Mary, to help Martha 

*Tell her to help me* This expression of Martha, shows that Martha was ready to accept service for Mother 

Accepting a helping hand from others also shows us the aspect of humility and that we can't survive alone 

*What are the above aspects which  I have 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*

Face is the Reflection of the Person

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 13:44-46*

*First Reading - Ex 34:29-35*

*Face is the Reflection of the Person*

*1) Face - the important part of the Body*

Among all parts of the body, face has a special significane, because of the following things 

Face is the part, through which a person's identity is known 

Face is the part which comes into contact with the other, among all other parts

Face is the part, which is seen first by the other, when we encounter the other 

Face shows what type of persons we are 

Face is the part, which is taken utmost care by every individual

We spend maximum amount of money, resources and time to beautify our face among all other parts of the body 

*2) The Face of Moses*

The first reading of today speaks about the speciality of Moses. 

After his encounter with the Lord, there was a tremendous changes on his face. According to the Bible, these are the Changes 

People of Israel noticed how radiant the skin of his face had become

People were frightened to come near to Moses, because of his radiant face 

Finally he had to put veil on his face, because of his radiant face 

*3) The Changes were projected on the face*

The entire episode, speaks about the face of Moses or the skin on the face of Moses 

The face or the skin of the face was radiant and not the any other part or skin on any other place 

The Bible stresses that it was face and the skin on the face was radiant.

So one could underline the importance of face or the skin on the face 

So the face became very important part of the body to emanate the Glory of God 

*4) God spoke to people through the face of Moses*

As soon as Moses came, after his encounter with the Lord, people noticed something special on His face 

In other Words it was the Glory of God, which was reflecting

Still we can say that God spoke to people of Israel through the face of Moses 

Ultimately the *Face* became an instrument, though which God spoke to people of Israel

*5) Our Face is the First Apostle  in our life*

An apostle is the one who is sent by the Lord to proclaim His message. Apostle is an messenger of the Lord 

In this way, our faces are the first apostles of our life, though which we can proclaim the message of the Lord 

A Christian is ultimately called to become an Apostle of the Lord, which should first of all reflect on our face 

*6) Glory on the face, depends on our deep relationship with the Lord*

The face of Mosses became radiant only after he had encounter with the Lord

All of us would like to have such a radiant face. But this is possible only though having a deep relationship with the Lord 

There is no magic or shortcut to have radiant face, which reflects the glory of God, other than prayer and holy life 

*7) My Face - What does it speak about?*

When we reflect about our own face, what does it reflect? 

We say that our Pope Francis' Face is very graceful. What about mine? 

Does my face reflect about the Glory of God?  Or does it reflect about something else? 

As we know that our face is the first thing that is seen by the other, what the other fellow get impression from my life? 

*8) Decency of my face*

If face is the first apostle of our life, then we have an obligation to take care of our face. 

In doing so we can adopt the following things 

Have a smiling face always 

Have a merciful face always 

Have a clean and presentable face always 

Avoid a scary and unclean face 

Avoid unnecessary decorations on the face 

Maintain a natural God given beauty, than the artificial beauty, which ultimately causes even to lose the natural beauty 

Present yourselves what you are through your face, by adopting a holy and graceful face

*What type of face I have?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The beautiful explanation of the name "LORD"

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 13:36-43*

*First Reading - Ex 33:7-11; 34:5b-9, 28*

*The beautiful explanation of the name "LORD"*

*1) The Seven beautiful meaning of the term Lord*

*The first reading of the day gives various meaning of the name Lord*

*A)  The Lord is merciful*

This is one of the dominant character of the Lord 

Lord is merciful to all those who are ready to accept their fault 

*B) The Lord is gracious*

The Lord is the one who is filled with grace and always fills His children with bountiful graces 

Grace is a special character of God. 

Grace is the spontaneous, unmerited gift of the divine favour in the salvation of sinners

*C) The Lord is slow to anger*

This is another character of the Lord 

This also means that the our Lord is patient able to accept us as we are with all our weaknesses

*D) The Lord is rich in Kindness*

Kindness is a quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.

Kindness is one of the great values, which makes us to practice the kingdom values in our life 

*E) The Lord is Rich in fidelity*

The fidelity of the Lord speaks about the faithfulness of God 

The Lord is faithful to His promises and He remains faithful in all the situations

*F) The Lord is the one who continues  his kindness for a thousand generations*

The Kindness  is not for one person or few years. 

It runs into thousand generations. This is something which we can't even think of 

*G) The Lord is the one who forgivies the wickedness, crime and sin*

The Lord means the Forgiveness. The forgiveness is hidden in the name *Lord*

He is able to forgive any sins when we humbly accept our faults  

The Lord's forgiveness has not limit and boundary

*2) Need to adopt these characteristics of Lord in our life*

The seven beautiful words explain the name of the Lord, meaningfully, which have a practical relevance to our life 

We need to adopt these characteristics in our life in order to grow in holiness and grace 

If so am I ready? 

Which are the characteristics of thr Lord already found 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*

Do I consider my eyes and ears are Blessed?👁️👂

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 13:16-17*

*First Reading - Sir 44:1, 10-15*

*Feast of Sts  Joachim and Ann*

*Do I consider my eyes and ears are Blessed?👁️👂*

*1) Jesus says our eyes and ears are Blessed*

*First of all* our eyes and ears are blessed because they are functioning. It means our eyes have sight and ears have the capacity to hear 

There are many people who have problem with sight and capacity to hear 

*Secondly* we are have better chances to see greater things and to hear greater things than ever

Many people and prophets could not see and hear what we are seeing and hearing. This can be understood in the following way 

Today we are able to see Jesus in the Eucharist, in the blessed sacrament, which those people could not see 

Today we see and experience the Sacred Scriptures, in our own mother tongues 

Today we see many holy and pilgrem places where we can experience Jesus 

Today we see many people who are bearing witness to Christ, in spite of the persecution and threat of life 

Today we have a greater chances of hearing the word of God, through sermons, through media and through our parents and teachers 

So we have many more chances to use our eyes and ears in a different way, which makes us to live a holy and genuine life 

*2) Eyes and ears that are connected to the Heart*

We talk about sight which is found in the eyes. 

There is deeper sight which is called *insight*. This insight will work only when our eye sight is directly connected to the *heart❤️*

Like wise we have the capacity to hear from our ears👂. But one can hear the cry of the pain, the pain of suffering, loneliness, sadness, defeat, humiliation, only when the ears are connected to the heart

What about my eyes and ears. Are they connected to the heart or disconnected from the heart. 

If they are disconnected, my sight will be very narrow and I may not hear anything from the other 

So we need to check these in our life 

*3) Do I consider that my eyes and hears are blessed?*

Only those who know the value of these senses will consider them blessed 

Secondly they become blessed only when their powers are used for something good and for the greater Glory of God 

We need to use our sight and insight to see the struggles of people, their misery, their failures, challenges, problems and to find our the sources to deal with these issues 

Like wise we need to use our ears to hear the sad cry and pain of another, to hear the good news and other greater things

*Am I ready?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Miracles happen when we give whatever we have in our life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Jn 6:1-15*

*First Reading - 2 Kgs 4:42-44*

*SECOND READING - Eph 4:1-6*

*Miracles happen when we give whatever we have in our life*

*1) Miracle of Feeding 5000*

The Gospel of the day, enumerates the miracle of feeding of the 5000

One may have different explanation and convincing arguments, as to how the miracle took place 

When we see the miracle from different angles, we get new ideas and inspiration, about the miracle itself 

So here is one such arguments for the same 

*2) Boys willingness to give*

In the entire episode there comes a boy. Some times we hardly notice this boy. 

But from the perspective of the miracle this boys role becomes very important

Since the boy gave whatever he had, it became a starting point for the miracle to happen 

So boys role and willingness to share the things has deeper role in it 

*3) 5 loaves and Two Fish*

The little boy had only this much. But he gave whatever he had, willingly and happily 

But this 5 loaves and Two fish had tremendous capacity to feed 5000 only men excluding the women and children

Even the things get so much of power, when they are given freely and for a great purpose. 

So this is the power of Giving 

*4) What do I have in my Life?*

Like that little boy we need to search about the things which have in my life 

It is not enough to have things, but should have a willingness to share with others. Only then miracles happen 

So the question, what do I have in my life? 

 Need to reflect about it 

*5) The possible things I need to have in my life?*

A generous heart

A forgiving heart 

A sacrificing heart 

A loving, serving and caring  heart 

A hardworking attitude 

A genuine approach 

When we have these above things and when we are ready to share these things with others, great miracles happen in ou life 

*6) Boys name is not given*

Since boys name is not given, any one can place himself/herself in the place of boy and need to reflect what type of attitude I will manifest 

Secondly, it is to show that,nothing should be done for the sake of mere name and fame 

Thirdly, without name also person can be remembered, for his/her good works 

So good work does not need the persons name, it can go around the world without the  name and can make a great impression

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Enemy comes when everyone/Everything is at sleep

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 13: 24-30*

*First Reading - Ex 24:3-8*

*The Enemy comes when everyone/Everything is at sleep*

*While everyone was asleep his enemy came*

*1) Enemy came when everyone was asleep*

The Gospel of the day makes it very clear that, the enemy came when everyone was a sleep 

When some one is at sleep,  he/she is passive and he/she is not able to do anything. 

No resistance is shown when someone is at sleep. So the enemy chooses this time to do something bad, because, it is easy to carry out 

*2) Other than physical sleep, there are also other forms of sleep*

We are familiar with physical sleep, which we all of us experience. There is nothing special about it 

Other than the physical sleep there are also other forms of sleep which are more dangerous than the physical sleep 

Since sleep makes us inactive with many other things, the sleep of the following things makes us inactive in our spiritual life

The sleep of laziness 

The sleep of gossip 

The sleep of pride 

The sleep of hatred 

The sleep of revenge 

The sleep of taking things for granted 

The sleep of jealousy

The sleep of carelessness

The above forms of sleep and many other forms of sleep in our life, is a best opportunity for the devil to enter and to sow the seeds of weeds

*3) The need of being alAlert*

*Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack* 1 Peter 5:8

St Peters letter gives us a apt warming against our slumber. 

The devil - our enemy - waits for an opportunity during the state of our slumber. If once it enters then it takes the control of our life 

Therefore keeping ourselves alert is very important to win our battle against the devil 

*4) The ways through which we can be alert*

We need to be like the watch dogs of our own life 

Watch dogs are always alert and they don't sleep 

We need to be alert with regard to our spiritual life, so that the devil may not enter in our life easily

*5) Am I still sleeping?*

Devil is active at all times to misguide those who are suffering from the slumber of spiritual things 

Spiritual slumber is more dangerous than any other slumber 

Let us try to overcome from the slumber so that we can chase the enemy from sowing the seeds of weeds in our life 

*Devil can't come when you are active*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Without Roots there is no shoot and Fruit in the plant

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week -  Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 13:18-23*

*First Reading - Ex 20:1-17*

*Without Roots there is no shoot and Fruit in the plant*

*But he has no root and lasts only for a time*

*1) The Seed fell on the rocky Ground*

The seed which fell on the rocky ground, sprouted quickly, but dried within no time. It could not survive for long time 

The main reason for the plant to die is the lack of roots. 

Either the plants didn't have many roots or the roots could not survive on the rocky ground 

In either case the plant will not survive 

*2) The strength of the plant is found in the roots*

This is the known fact. The stronger the roots the healthier is the plant 

The strong roots are the strength of the plant. If the roots are strong it can survive in any situations 

So we know how the roots are very important to the plant 

*3) Shoot and fruits have foundation in the roots*

Any plant if we see, ultimately, the shoot and the fruits depend on the roots 

If there are no roots, no shoot and no fruit. This is the strength of the roots 

By looking at the shoot and fruits, one can imagine the strength of the roots and the importance of it.

*4) Human life is like a plant*

Just a plant can't survive without the roots, human life also can't survive without roots 

If the roots of our life are strong, then we can yeild much fruit in our life. If there are no roots, life will lose its meaning. 

*5) Important roots of our life*

There are many roots, on which our life depends. Some of them could be understood in the following way 

The roots of the family 

The roots of the prayer 

The roots of harwork 

The roots of sacrifice

The roots of service 

The roots of love 

The roots of generosity

The roots of sincerity

The roots of morality 

The roots of justice 

The roots of forgiveness

The roots of charity 

The roots of courage 

The roots of smile 

The roots of faith 

The roots of faithfulness

The roots of commitment

All these roots make our life strong, holy and fruitful, which ultimately helps us to yeild much fruit 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Just take a turn or "U" turn to find Jesus Jesus in your life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Thursday*

*Feast of St Mary Magdalene*

*GOSPEL - Jn 20:1-2, 11-18*

*First Reading - Sg 3:1-4b or 2 Cor 5:14-17*

*Just take a turn or "U" turn  to find Jesus Jesus in your life*

*1)  Mary Magdalene's search for Jesus*

After the crucifixion and death of Jesus, Mary was really missing Jesus 

Because of the emptiness she felt, she could not think of her life without Jesus 

So she was searching Jesus in all the possible ways. So she came early in the morning to the place where Jesus was laid

She comes sees the situation near the tomb, and learns that the body of Jesus was missing. That made the situation still worse 

All these actions of Mary shows how much she loved Jesus and how much she wanted Jesus in her life 

*2) The serach of Jesus near the Tomb*

As soon as she reached the place, she sees that the stone which was kept at the entrance was rolled back 

She runs back to convey the message to the disciples  that the body of Jesus is not found 

Again she comes back and starts weeping, standing near the tomb

Still she continues her search by looking inside the tomb

To her surprise she saw only two angels, but not Jesus 

She even asks the angels where Jesus' body is 

But she could not find 

*3) She turned around and saw Jesus there*

As she was searching, she did all the possible things to find Jesus 

Finally she turned around, and there Jesus was

Just a turn from where she was able to meet Jesus 

So it could be considered as a *happy turn* *A turn which helped her to find Jesus* *A turn which made her to experience Jesus*

*4) A simple turn resulted in finding Jesus in her life*

The Gospel clearly mentions that, as she turned around, there she saw Jesus 

So turn in life helps us to find Jesus 

This particular phrase had a deep spiritual meaning in our life 

*5) Simple turn or U turn in our life*

As Mary witnessed a simple turn in experiencing Jesus, we too will experience Jesus, if we are ready to take a simple turn in our life 

*The possible simple turns or U turns in our life*

Turn from falsehood to truth 

Turn from revenge to forgiveness

Turn from hatred to love

Turn from laziness to harwork 

Turn from gossip to good news 

Turn from pride to humility

Turn from selfishness to selflessness

Turn from greed to generosity

Turn from arrogance to humility

Turn towards service, sacrifice, and hardwork

When we have such kinds of turns, we definitely find and  experience Jesus in our life 

*Just try and see. You will whiteness wonders in your life*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We are called upon to put on the nature of the Sower

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 13:1-9*

*First Reading - Ex 16:1-5, 9-15*

*We are called upon to put on the nature of the Sower*

*1) The Greatness of the Sower*

First of all he is a very hard working man. We need to salute Him. 

Secondly he has prepared the soil well for the seeds to saw, which shows his hardworking skills and enthusiasm in doing so

Thirdly, he takes utmost care in sowing the seeds. 

In spite of taking so much care the seeds falls on the different places 

The gospel mentions the four places  *pathway, rocky ground, thorny bushes, and the furtile ground*

In fact the sower knew that some of the seeds will fall on these places and the seeds which falls on these places will not be useful, except on the furtile soil.

But the sower does not mind this challenge. He accepts this challenge, and proceeds with His work

*2) The Sower took a great challenge and risk*

Risk of losing some of the good seeds 

Challenge is, in spite of the hardships he still procceds with His Work 

Since he took the great challenge and risk, he was able to get fruit, from the good soil

Had he not taken the risk, there would not have been any fruit at all 

*3) There is no good work without risk and Challenge*

The above point becomes very clear from the parable of the sower, that without taking risk there is no fruit 

Every little good work always has some kinds of challenges and problems

When we are able to face these, we can win the race 

*4) We need to cultivate the attitude of the Sower*

He was always optimistic in his approach 

His focus was on the good seed which fell on the furtile ground 

He didn't think much about the seeds which fell on the other places. So he didn't waste his time I'm unnecessary things 

He worked on the good soil fell on the furtile land, thus able to get the fruit from it 

He knew the challenges. But didn't give up. 

*5) My life and the activity of Sowing*

We need to sow many good things in our life. This is not very easy. 

To sow out side in the field is easy.  But to sow good things in ones life, need to work hard 

In spite of the various dangers of pathway, rocky ground, thorny bushes, we need to still take risk in order to achieve the desired goals.

Sower always saw good things in everything. We need to see the same 

Unless we sow something, nothing will grow. Like the sower let's sow good things in our lives 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The beauty of the Stretching out the Hand

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 12:46-50*

*First Reading - Ex 14:5-18*

*The beauty of the Stretching out the Hand*

*1) Stretching out ones hand - is a beautiful gesture*

When some one stretches out his/her hand means, it is for something good 

It is a sign of generosity

It is a sign of extending ones service to another 

It is a sign of helping the other 

It is the sign of encouragement

It is a sign of giving oneself to another 

So stretching out ones hand has a beautiful meaning 

*2) Moses stretches out his hand to save Israelites*

By following the instructions of the Lord, Moses stretched out his hand over the water and water got divided into two and a footpath for the passage was created 

So Moses stretched out his hand to perform a miracle, to show a right way, to show the glory of God and to save the people of God 

*3) Jesus also Stretched out His Hand*

To answer the question, who is my mother, who is my father, He stretched out his hand towards disciples and said here are my mother, brothers and sisters 

So Jesus stretched out His hand to show us where is our mother and where are our brothers and sisters 

The stretched out hand of Jesus shows many things 

It shows the right direction

It shows where is my mother 

It shows where is my brother 

It shows where is my sister 

It shows where is my neighbor

It shows that I need to consider every other person either as mother or brother or sister

*4) The stretched out hand of Jesus draws the attention*

The moment Jesus stretches out his hand it catches the attention of the people 

It catches our attention to realise the greater things of our life 

It catches our attention to stop for a while and to think about the greater realities of life   

*5) The stretched out hands to Jesus on the Cross*

The Cross shows the greatest gesture of the Humanity, that is the extended hands of Jesus on the Cross

They are the symbol of God's love for us 

They are the symbol of Gods openness towards humanity  

They are symbol of total surrender to the will of God 

They are the symbol of forgiveness, love and sacrifice

*6) My life and stretching out my hands*

We stretch out our hands many times. But the question is why? What is the purpose of my stretching out hands? 

Is it to offer service to others or to receive service from others?

Is it to share whatever I have or to get as many things as possible? 

Is it for giving a helping hand to another or to depend on others for everything?

Is it to guide and lead people or to mislead and misguide people?

Is it to praise God or to become a  counter witness?

Even though stretching out hands is a simple gesture, it speaks volumes and volumes together

*Am I ready to stretch out my hands? If yes for what?*

 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Let my Life be a sign for others

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week -Monday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 12:38-42*

*First Reading - Ex 14:5-18*

*Let my Life be a sign for others*

*1) Pharisees and Scribes were asking a Sign from Jesus*

The Gospel of the day begins with the note of asking a sign by Scribes and Pharisees from Jesus 

Signs are good, if they help us to live a better life, which may inspire the other to live a good life 

*2) It is easy to ask a sign From another*

Asking sign from another indicates that I want to see something good in you 

Asking a sign from another means expecting another person to good and righteous person 

Asking a sign from another means, I become a outsider in the scene and I become only a spectator for it 

So asking or demanding a sign from another is easy because it does not cost me anything, 

*3) To make my life a sign is very challenging*

All the great personalities are real signs for us.

For example - Fr Stan Swamy is a great sign of fight against injustice, fight for the rights of the poor people, 

He is a sign of strong conviction, sign of a great martyr, sign of great sacrifice, sign of another Christ

His life didn't become sign over night. But throughout his life he struggled, suffered, and finally he sacrificed his life for his poor and deprived people 

That's why he became a great sign. So to make a life a sign for the entire world is very difficult and challenging

*4) The Sign and scribes and  Pharisees*

First of all they failed to make their life as a great sign, which could inspire many more people 

Secondly, they completely failed to recognise the great signs in the life of Jesus 

It is not that there weren't any signs in the life of Jesus. In fact there were many signs and each miracle or healing was a great sign. But they failed to see. 

Thirdly by demanding a sign from Jesus, they betrayed their own ignorance. 

Fourthly, it also shows their arrogance, and selfish motives not to recognise Jesus as a great person 

*5) Jesus' Life is a great Sign*

Jesus' life is a great sign for all times, past, present and Future. 

Every deed Jesus did in His life is a great indicator of a sign 

Since signs are very visible in the life of Jesus, there is no question of asking for a sign

*6) What about my life? Is it a sign? Is it a counter sign?*

As we reflect about the concept of sign, let us reflect about our own life to check what type of sign my life is.

Is it a sign of generosity, humility, forgiveness, simplicity, service, love, sincerity, unity, sacrifice, etc 

Is it a sign of revenge, hatred, gossip, selfishness, pride, arrogance, etc 

What type of signs people read from my life? 

*Instead of demanding a good sign from another person, let us make our life as a great sign*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How to become a Good Shepherd? Best Qualities of a Good Shepherd

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week -  Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Mk 6:30-34*

*First Reading - Jer 23:1-6*

*SECOND READING - Eph 2:13-18*

*How to become a Good Shepherd?*

*Best Qualities of a Good Shepherd*

*1) Jesus The Shepherd*

The readings of the day speaks about the a Shepherd, who always thinks about the Sheep and their wellbeing

The First reading tells us that God is the Shepherd of Israel, who always takes care of them

The Gospel of the Day speaks about the response and the attitude  of a Good Shepherd - Jesus

*2) What makes a Good Shepherd?* 

*A) Understanding the Sheep*

Jesus is one the best shepherds who understood His Sheep

Soon after they came from their ministry He allowed them to go to a seculed place and to rest for a while 

This shows how well Jesus understood His Sheep 

*B) Listening to the Sheep*

As soon as His disciples came after their ministry, they shared their experiences. 

Jesus carefully listened all of them very well 

Only when we listen to the another we can understand them at a deeper level

*C) Any time Ready for service*

In fact Jesus and His disciples had gone to take rest 

But when Jesus saw people in that place, instead of taking rest, He began to serve them 

*The service of the people was more important than the rest* important to note this 

*D) Working for Unity*

One of the Major themes of today's Readings is *UNITY*

The first reading tells us that God is working at all times to bring about unity among the sheep 

2nd reading tells us that the blood of the Lamb is responsible for Unity - A unity between human beings, a unity between God and Man, a unity between God, man and the Nature

*E) Protection of the Sheep*

The shepherd is redy to protect the sheep at any time and from any harm 

Risking His life the shepherd protects the sheep from all harm 

At the same time He also destroys the enemies who divide and lead the sheep astray from the sheepfold

*F) Teaches the right Things*

Another important aspect to note 

He began to teach them because they were ignorant about many things 

*F) Heart with Compassion*

The Gospel says that His heart was moved with pity

Having pity is very important, since it creates a feeling which leads us to do something for them 

*G) Nothing is in scarcity*

Good Shepherd has everything in abundance

The Lord is my shepherd there is nothing I shall want, because there is nothing which lacks in the Shepherd

*3) We have been called to become Good Shepherds*

All of us are invited cordially to become good shepherd a free the model of Jesus 

By having some of the above qualities, we can definitely become good shepherds. 

So the question is am I ready to become a good shepherd??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Israel Left Egypt, in order to go to the Promised Land

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15 Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 12:14-21*

*First Reading - Ex 12:37-42*

*Israel Left Egypt, in order to go to the Promised Land*

*1) Israel Lived 430 years in Egypt*

The book of Exodus makes it very clear that the Children of Israel lived 430 years in Egypt

It is rather quite a long period of time to remain in Egypt, under the pagan leader 

430 years means, to get attached to so many things, and  so many customs and traditions

So this 430 years have a special significance in the life of Israel

*2) They Left everything over night*

A place where they lived and suffered for 430 years, was immediately to leave by God through Moses

Over night people were ready to leave everything and move to the new Place 

They had no time to take things and to carry them. 

Even the food which they took for their journey was not cooked, which shows how fast they left the place 

Leaving of Egypt was very essential for their bright future 

*3) They also encountered problems after leaving Egypt*

As the proceeded their journey they had lots of challenges and problems

Problem of food, problem water, problem of protection, problem of fear, anxiety etc where some of the mains problems of Israel

At times they were tempted to go back to Egypt and to remain there itself

Leaving of Egypt was not a pleasent thing in the beginning

*4) Since they left Egypt they came to the Promised Land*

The first requirement to reach the promised land, need to leave the Egypt

If they had taken decision not to move form Egypt or if they had gone back after coming out of Egypt because of the Challenges, they would not have reached the promised land

The leaving of Egypt, results in great things in the life of Israel

*5) Egypt in my life*

All of us have Egypt experience within ourselves

We are caught up in this Egypt and suffer a lot 

At times we don't want to leave this Egypt, for the fear of losing everything

As a result, no changes or only a little change will be seen in our life. 

*6) What are the things which represent Egypt in my life?* 

These are the following things which make our life a bondage 

Anger, jealousy, revenge, pride, arrogance, selfishness, personal gain, name and fame etc  

All these represent the Egypt in my life. Unless I get out of these things or leave these things I  can't move towards promised land 

Christian life consists in continuously leaving the Egypt in my life and moving towards Promised Land

Am I ready to leave the Egypt and move towards promised land??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Power of the Scapular

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 12:46-50*

*First Reading - Zec 2:14-17*

*Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel*

*The Power of the Scapular*

*1) What is a Scapular?*

The word 'scapular' is derived from the Latin word 'scapula', or shoulder blade.

The scapular originated hundreds of years ago as two large pieces of cloth, attached at the shoulders by narrow strips, which covered the front and back of a monk's habit.

It was originally worn for the practical purpose of preserving the habit from dirt

So scapular is an instrument of protection

*2) Mother Mary and Scapular*

According to tradition, in the year 1251 a Carmelite superior general living in Cambridge, England, St. Simon Stock, was praying for heavenly intercession for his order, as the Carmelites were facing trials and oppression at the time.

On July 16th, 1251, he received a visit from Our Lady in answer to his prayers. 

When She handed over the Scapular, she communicated the following things 

*It is the special sign of my favor*

*He who dies clothed with this habit shall be preserved from eternal fire.*

*It is the badge of salvation*

*It is a shield in time of danger, and a pledge of special peace and protection*

This shows the importance and power of the Scapular

*3) Mother Mary always very active in our Life*

Every apparition of our Blessed Mother Shows that she is really concerned about us and She continuously intercedes for us

Our Lady of Mount Carmel is one of the finest example of Mother Mary protection to all of us 

Let's wear this scapular to protect us from all dangers and to live a holy life 

*4) My life Should become like a Scapular*

After wearing this scapular, our life should become like s scapular 

This means 

*My life Should be a sign favour to everyone*

*My life should help others to live a holy life and it should help to preserve life from eternal fire*

*My life should become a blade of salvation*

*My life should become  a shield in time of danger, and a pledge of special peace and protection.*

Am I ready for it?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Like Moses am I ready to lead my neighbors from the Misery?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week -  Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 11:28-30*

*First Reading - Ex 3:13-20*

*Like Moses am I ready to lead my neighbors from the Misery?*

*God Says "I am concerned about you and about the way you are being treated in Egypt; so I have decided to lead you up out of the misery of Egypt*

*1) God Chose Moses for a special Purpose*

The special purpose was to liberate people of Israel from the slavery of Egypt

For this purpose God appeared to Moses, in the burning Bush and conveyed His message 

After initial hesitation Moses agreed for the Mission of Lord, to liberate people from Slavery 

*2) Today God chooses You and Me*

Like Moses God chooses you and me for the greater Mission of the Lord 

First of all as a Christian God has chosen us to liberate the entire humanity from the bandage of sin

We need to cooperate like, Moses to liberate people from their misery 

*3) Modern slavery of the Egypt*

The people of Israel were enslaved by the King of Egypt. Today this Egypt represents in the following areas 

*Covid 19* which has practically enslaved the entire human race into fear and anxiety

*Religious Fundamentalism* In todays world the above issue is becoming very sensitive and many have become the victims of this problem, this has become a threat to the human life 

*Colourful Media* This is taking the Place of Egypt in our life, which has made even the small children salves of mobile, WhatsApp, serials, internet, internet games, addictions of various kinds 

*Bodily pleasures* This includes food, variety of dress, temptations of Flesh and  beauty, has made many people slaves 

Desire for Power, position, money, wealth, property, desire for name have made many as slaves 

So the above things act as Egypt in our life, which make us lose the purpose of life

*4) Am I a victim of the Slavery of the Egypt?*

This is one of the important questions to answer. As we know that many of the things in our life act like Egypt to make us slave, am I able to fight back and liberate myself? 

First of we need to check whether I am a slave of these things or not? 

If I am a slave of these things I need to come out of this slavery 

*5) Like Moses am I ready to  liberate?*

Christian is the one who fights against the various forms of Egyptian slavery

Christian spirituality revolves around the fight against the slavery to liberate one another 

Like Moses let us cooperate with Our Lord to liberate our brothers and sisters from the bondage of the Egyptian Slavery

Let us not become the victims of Egyptian slavery in its modern forms

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We need to remove our Sandals in order to enter the Holy Place

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 11:25-27*

*First Reading - Ex 3:1-6, 9-12*

*We need to remove our Sandals in order to enter the Holy Place*

*Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground*

*1) Mosses was asked by the Lord, to remove His sandals*

In the book of Exodus, we come across, that God is asking Moses to remove His sandals because the place was Holy 

So it was clear that, in order to enter the Holy place, Moses had to remove the Sandals

So we see the need and necessity of removing the sandals 

*2) Why sandals had to be removed*

First of all sandals are not the original part of the body 

It is something which can be called as extra fitting to our body 

Secondly, when we use sandals, while walking, they become dirty, and all the dirt is found on the sandals

So in one word we say that sandals are dirty, after being used for walking 

So it is improper to wear such dirty sandals and to enter the Holy Place 

So the best idea would be remove the sandals and entre into the Holy Place 

*3) The concept of Sandals in my Life*

Here we are not taking about the sandals which we use for our feet 

But we use the concept of sandals in a different way, which has deeper implications to our spiritual life 

So the concept of Sandals can be used in the Following way 

We need to remove the sandals of our ego

We need to remove the sandals of our selfishness, jealousy, pride, anger, duplicity, arrogance, revenge,  hypocrisy

We need to remove the sandals of self centeredness, hidden motives, narrow mentality, non cooperation and so on

When we remove these sandals from our heart and mind we can enter the Holy Place without much difficulties

*4) To remove sandals from feet is easy, but from heart and mind not easy*

It is our experience that to remove sandals from our feet is very easy. It does not require much efforts 

But to remove the sandals from, our heart and mind, from our life and from our attitude, from our behaviour and from our way of life is not easy 

This needs a continuous efforts, which may help us in removing the sandals to some extent 

*5) Am I ready to remove sandals from my Life?*

All of us would like to enter into the holy place as Moses wanted 

But we need to understand the gravity of removing the sandals to enter into the Holy Place 

If so, am I ready? 

Am I ready to face the challenges in removing the sandals from my life? 

What are the sandals I carry in my daily life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What is my response to the Mighty Deeds of God in my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week -  Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 11:20-24*

*First Reading - Ex 2:1-15a*

*What is my response to the Mighty Deeds of God in my Life?*

*1) Jesus' Mighty deeds in Chorazin and Bethsaida*

Chorazin and Bethsaida were two important cities in which Jesus did lots of good works, performed miracles and served people in various ways 

The Gospel of the day is the witness to this fact, that Jesus had specially worked in these area 

*2) Results are not many*

On the one side Jesus worked many miracles and great things, which should have brought many changes 

Unfortunately, there wasn't any change among the people even after witnessing many of the miracles 

So Jesus was not happy with those people for their passive response 

That's why Jesus says *For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes.*

That's why the people of

Chorazin and Bethsaida will have terrible judgment from the Lord, for their negligence

*3) Mighty Works in my life*

In one way, our life is just like Chorazin and Bethsaida

As Jesus worked many miracles among these people Jesus also works many miracles and does great mighty works in our life 

We must acknowledge that our life is just like a field for Jesus to perform great and wonderful deeds. 

*The following are some of the great or mighty works in my Life*

I  am able to walk, able to talk, hear, smell, can experience varieties of taste, able to think, able to relate, able to listen, able to practice various Gospel values 

These are nothing but the great miracles of God in our lives 

If so what is my response?

*4) What is my response to the mighty Works of God in my life?*

First of all am I able to recognize that the ordinary things of our life, are nothing but the great miracle of God

Simple example : The functioning of the heart, our digestive system etc 

Am I able to see them as the great mighty works of God.?

If so what is the reaction towards these?

*5) Two types of reactions "*

First of all not to recognize the mighty works of the Lord, and to consider that everything happens by science and physical forces 

Secondly to see the miracle hand of God in everything and to thank God and to remain faithful him. 

Am I ready for this?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Where are our Enemies?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week -  Monday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 10:34-11:1*

*First Reading - Ex 1:8-14, 22*

*Where are our Enemies?*

*One’s enemies will be those of his household*

*1) What comes to my mind when I think of the enemies?*

Usually we think that enemies are far away from us and we hardly meet them 

At times we think our enemies are outside of our country who attack us for different reasons 

But are we right by thinking in such a way? Where are our real enemies? We need to ask this question and find out an answer for the same 

*2) Where do we fight in our daily life?*

Usually we fight in our neighborhood and in the society where we live 

At times we fight within our family, which creates lots of uneasiness and problems

So usually our enemies are found where we fight and where we have various types of disputes

Usually we fight for wealth, property share, money, position, and so on. All these happen either within the family or in the neighbourhood. 

So our enemies are within the family or in the neighbourhood

*3) Jesus says our enemies will be from our Household*

This makes it very clear that most our enemies are from our family itself 

Because lots of issues take place with in the family and at times these things give rise to many of the disputes which ultimately results in enmity. 

*4) Enemies from Household also involves enemies within myself*

When we see our own individual life it is clear that there are many enemies within ourselves which creates a kind of enmity between me and my God 

The following are some of the enemies from within myself 

The enemy of Sin 

The enemy of arrogance

The enemy of pride 

The enemy of bodily desires and temptations

The enemy of greed for wealth, money, position, possession, 

The enemy of hatred, revenge and narrow mentality 

All these enemies are found within my self, which do not allow us to grow in our spiritual life 

*5) Jesus too had enemies from with in*?

Some of the examples would be 

Judas Iscariot

His own Jewish people 

His own native people 

But Jesus conquered all these enemies and became a great person 

*6) How do I deal with my enemies?*

Do I allow them to grow, without making any efforts to destroy them? 

How do I handle the enemies which are within myself?

We need to be more careful about those enemies, which are within ourselves than outside of us

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Some important things to note by the disciples of Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Mk 6:7-13*

*First Reading - Eph 1:3-14 or Eph 1:3-10*

*FIRST READING - Am 7:12-15*

*Some important things to note by the disciples of Jesus*

*1) Jesus Instructions to His Disciples*

The Gospel of the day, highlights the importance of sending of the disciples to the mission 

As Jesus was about to send them for the mission, He gives some of the important guidelines to them, which they are supposed to follow 

At times it appears very strange to read the instructions and we may get some questions, why Jesus is giving such kinds of instructions

When we try to understand the meaning of these things we come to know why Jesus has said this 

*2) First of all Jesus says, No food*

When some one is busy with the mission of the Lord, should not have too much pre occupation with the Food 

Too much worry about the food may spoil the purpose of the mission 

At times food also is the item of temptation, which is very clear when Satan tempted Jesus to convert stones into bread 

When food transforms from the need to greed it becomes a real problem

However Jesus is not against having food which is necessary to support our life. That is why Jesus taught us to pray  *Give us this day our daily Bread*

Moreover, this gesture of not taking food, while going for mission also shows the tremendous faith in God

*3) Secondly Jesus says, No sack*

The purpose of sack is to carry things. It can have two levels of meaning 

*First level of meaning*

No sack means : don't take anything else while going for the mission of the Lord. Its enough that one goes with his/her open heart and mind to serve the Lord 

It also means that Gods mission is not restricted through things or Gods mission is achieved only through worldly things 

*Second level of meaning*

Taking sacks while going for mission means, one is intended to get something from the place of mission 

Sack means here a container which is used to get things and to bring back, a selfish motive in mission 

Gods mission does not consists in getting but in giving. So not to have selfish goals but selfless goal 

Don't make your life like a sack, which is uses for getting things 

*4) Thirdly Jesus says No money*

*The love of money is the root of all evil* which can be found in 1 Timothy 6:10

Too much depending on the power of money will not help in mission 

When money rules, there will be more evil than good 

Once again, Jesus is very clear that Gods mission is not for money. It is a free gift of God 

Money is a useful guide,but it is not everything, because money can't buy values and virtues 

The moment money enters, all evil things begin, that's why Jesus is cautioning us about the same 

*5) Jesus says take only walking Stick or staff, or rod - why?*

Psalm 23 says 

I) Staff is used to draw the  sheep together into an intimate relationship

II) Secondly, the staff is used to reach out and grab a lamb for close inspection

III) Thirdly, the staff is used in guiding the sheep as they are moving along, because sheep tend to wander off

IV) The staff represents God's Spirit. It indicates gentle guidance

*Stick gives us rest* : it can be used to lean, when one 

 tired 

*Stick is a sign of protection*

*Stick is a sign of Power and courage*

*Stick is stick is uses to give right direction*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I ready to become like my Master

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 10:24-33*

*First Reading - Gn 49:29-32; 50:15-26a*

*Am I ready to become like my Master*

*It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher, for the slave that he become like his master*

*1) Jesus is My Master*

The Gospel which makes a reference to the Master refers to Jesus 

Jesus is our True Master and we are His disciples 

So we are called upon to follow our Master in everything

*2) Am I a slave in any way?*

At the peripheral level we may not agree with this statement, because we feel that we are free

But am I really a free person? Or do I suffer from any form of slavery? 

When we reflect our life at the deeper level, we come to know that we are enslaved by many of the things. Some of the examples may be the following  

We are enslaved by the sinful desires 

We are enslaved by our bodily pleasures 

We are enslaved by our evil habits 

We are enslaved by our emotions like pride, arrogance, revengeful attitude, anger, selfishness, self centeredness, self righteousness, hatred, jealousy etc.

So in a way we are all slaves and slaves of many things. We can't denay this fact

*3) The call to become like Master*

There is no doubt that we are slaves of many things 

So we have been asked to liberate ourselves from the above mentioned slavaries 

There is only one way to liberate ourselves from the slavery, that to become like our Master 

The moment we try our level best to become like our Master we will adopt various methods to over come from the clutches of slavery

*4) Jesus came to Liberate the Slaves*

The primary purpose of Jesus' coming into the world is nothing but liberating the people from the slavery of Sin/Devil 

That's why His fight was always against Sin and Devil, which enslaved human beings in everything

Even today Jesus continues His fight against the Sin/Devil to liberate God's people

*5) Am I trying to become like my Master?* 

The call is very clear,  that to become like Master 

The purpose of becoming like Master is to liberate oneself from the slavery of Sin

If So, Am I ready to become like Master? 

The answer to this question if *Yes* then there are many challenges to face, because *Yes* is not an easy answer

What are the ways through which I am trying to become like My Master? 

 Am I still a slave or a liberated person??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We have been called to serve in the midst of wolves

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week -  Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 10:16-23*

*First Reading - Gn 46:1-7, 28-30*

*We have been called to serve in the midst of wolves*

*1) Jesus worked in the misdt of wolves*

Jesus' mission was not easy. It was very much challenging. 

In reality there were many people and many things which worked as wolves, when Jesus was trying to build the Kingdom of God 

Even then Jesus didn't give up. He accomplished His mission in the misdt of wolves. 

*2) Fr Stan  Swamy was in the misdt of wolves*

The recent incident of Fr Stan Swamy shows that He worked among wolves 

He was challnenged. But he didn't give up. He worked as faithful sheep and finally fought his fight amidst the wolves 

*3) Christian Spirituality demands that we go in the midst of wolves*

There is no short cuts for Christian Spirituality. 

Working among the wolves is at the centre of Christian spirituality. 

One can't run away from this fact. We have been called upon to work amidst wolves 

*4) Working among the wolves is not easy*

Mission amidst wolves is not easy. Its very much challenging. At times it demands great sacrifice and commitment

It is one of the most difficult part of our life. But we can't run away from this 

*5) Am I ready to serve in the midst of wolves*

If so, am I ready to work in the midst of wolves? 

Am I running away from wolves because of the fear of my life? 

Only those who are committed can work amidst wolves 

What is my answer?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The maximum allowed Reaction of a Disciple of Jesus : Shake the dust from your feet

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week -  Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 10:7-15*

*First Reading - Gn 44:18-21, 23b-29; 45:1-5*

*The maximum allowed Reaction of a Disciple of Jesus : Shake the dust from your feet*

*1) Jesus Sends His Disciples on a Mission*

The Gospel of the day, highlights about Jesus' sending His disciple for a mission 

Their mission involved variety of things

Proclamation of the Kingdom of Heaven 

Cureing  the sick, 

Raising  the dead,

Cleansing the lepers, 

Driving out demons.

Finally No things  to carry for the mission. Go in the name of Jesus and do the mission 

*2) Mission is not a easy Task*

The mission given by Jesus is not very easy 

First of all lots of commitments and sacrife is needed 

Secondly, there is no guarantee that the people will receive or accept our mission with open Hand 

Thirdly there will be challenges : Some will question, some will criticise, some will trouble and some will reject 

But there will be a sizable number of people who will accept our mission 

*3)  When we are rejected, what should be our response*

When we do some genuine work, and people find fault with us, we feel bad and naturally we want to challenge them in different ways 

Some time challenging them may take the form of taking the revenge 

Therefore, Jesus has to told us what should be our reaction

The maximum reaction that is allowed is : leave the place, and one can shake off the dust. Nothing more.

*4) Meaning of the shaking off the Dust*

In one way to show our displeasure 

Secondly, to show them  that we are not taking or carrying your insults, challenges, criticisms, negativity etc. By shaking off the dust we say that we leave everything whatever you have given. We are not taking anything 

Thirdly shaking off the dust is showing our disagreement with a gentle way, thereby giving an invitation to them to relize their mistakes 

*5) Taking off the Dust in my life*

This concept is very important and relevant to us 

We need to shake of the dust in our life every moment

Shaking of the dust is very important in our families, in our churches, in our communities and in the society

Only one who is able to practice this virtue, can achieve grest heights  in life 

*6) My Life and my method*

What is the method I use in my life? 

Shaking off the dust 

Taking revenge

Keeping anger and hatred 

Giving up, with one failure 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Evil deeds spoil our Name forever. They are like a black spot to our name

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 10:1-7*

*First Reading - Gn 41:55-57; 42:5-7a, 17-24a*

*Evil deeds spoil our Name forever. They are like a black spot to our name*

*Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus.*

*1) The Speciality of the Names of the Apostles*

The Gospel of the day gives us the names of 12 Apostles. All names are mentioned in the Apostle list. 

Among all names, the name of Judas has a added details to his name 

11 names of the apostles are mentioned as they are. No other details are added

But when it comes to the name of Judas, it clearly has furter details *Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus.*

*2) Added detail to the Name of Judas is not pleasant*

The added details to the name of Judas is not plessent 

*Who betrayed Jesus* is the tag which is found in the name of Judas

*Who betrayed Jesus* speaks about some serious evil deeds done by Judas 

*Who betrayed Jesus* shows the real personality of Judas, the blunder committed by Judas and the consequences of his misdeeds

*3) Who betrayed Jesus - will remain forever*

The above words are not for few days, or few years, or for some decades. But they will remain forever 

The name of Jesus is eternal. So as long as the name of Jesus is eternal, Judas will be referred and remembered as an apostle *Who betrayed Jesus*

No power on earth will be able to remove this black spot attached to his name, because of his misdeeds

*4) Spoiling of the name means, person itself is gone*

The name of the person is his/her identity

We identify a person with his/her name. So name means person and person means name 

One can't separate the name from the person. 

So when the name is spoiled, the person loses his/her identity. 

So name is very important to a person 

*5) What are the special tags to my name?*

All of us have some tags to our name 

Today Fr Stan Swamy is known as *Fr Stan Swamy the human Right activist,* *The martyr,*  *The voice of Daliths and Adivasis, brave heart* 

What a beautiful tags to his name. How wonderful it is to be known to the rest of the world by these tags 

They really speak what Fr Stan Swamy is and what he did for the poor and marginalized.

Like Fr Stan Swamy, what are the beautiful tags I would like to have or already I have to my name 

Will some one address me like this (Let's take *A* as a persons name)

*A* a simple person

*A* a humble person

*A* a trusted person 

*A* a generous person 

*A* a forgiving person 

*A* a faithful person

*A* is a voice of the poor 

*A* is a courageous person 

*Or will people call me*

*A* dangerous person 

*A* Cruel, heartless, merciless, miserly person 

*A* is a sadist, proud, arrogant, spineless, person 

*6) What type of tags I would like to have to my name?*

Good tag don't come easily. They are very difficult to earn 

Only hard work and sincerity will bring great tags to our names

According to the gravity of the tag, the severity of the demands will be

If so, what added details, or special tags I would like to have in my name? 

What can I do to earn such great tags???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Muteness is one of the faces of Demon/Devil/Sin

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week -  Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 9:32-38*

*First Reading - Gn 32:23-33*

*Muteness is one of the faces of Demon/Devil/Sin*

*1) A mute Demonic was brought to Jesus*

The person who was brought to Jesus was unable to speak, because of the demon

The demon who took the possession of his life, made him unable to speak 

Once a person becomes speechless, he becomes helpless, he becomes a slave and need to act according to the orders of Devil. 

The person who loses the speech, unable to communicate anything. So demon makes the communication impossible

*2) He Spoke when demon was driven out*

When the man was freed from the influence of the demon, he spoke he communicated and he was joyful 

He might have thanked Jesus, praised God and all those who are around him 

Since he spoke the entire crowd was cheered with Joy and they were amazed 

So lots of changes took place when demon was driven out 

*3)  Sin is a modern form of demon/devil*

This is very clear, that the sin takes the place of demon or devil in the present day context 

Such a demon is affecting everyone and we need to be careful about it

In other words all of us are possessed with this Sin (demon), therefore we need to be brought to Jesus for healing 

*4) Sin makes us speechless*

There are many sins which make us speechless

The sin of falsehood makes us speechless about Truth

The sin of arrogance makes us uuable to practice humility

The sin of revenge, makes us mute about forgiveness

The sin selfishness makes us mute about the service 

The sin of division makes us mute about the unity 

The sin of jealousy makes us mute about the goodness of other person

The sin of gossip makes us mute about the good reputation about others 

*5) Am I possessed with some form demons?*

What do I feel about it? 

Do I agree with the above statement or not? 

Only a perfectly pure person can say that he/she is free from any forms of demon

If so what are the demons that I carry in my life or allow the demon to take control of my life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Speciality and the Power of officials prayer :"My daughter has just died. But come, lay your hand on her, and she will live."

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 9:18-26*

*First Reading - Gn 28:10-22a*

*The Speciality and the Power of officials prayer :"My daughter has just died. But come, lay your hand on her, and she will live."*

*Is anything dead in me?*

*1) The death of the officials Daughter*

The officials daughter had already dead, when he came to meet Jesus

Even then he did not lose hope about the life of his daughter. 

The expressed words by the official, shows that, before Jesus death is a not a big issue. So he asks Jesus to lay His hands on her dead daughter, so that she may come back to life 

As he belived, Jesus was able to perform the great miracle, because of his faith in Jesus 

*2) The deeper meaning for my Life*

The expression of the official *My daughter has just died. But come, lay your hand on her, and she will live.”* can be seen as an incident out side of me or an incident, which has direct reference to my life 

As an out side incident, it happens to the official and his dead daughter. I only see the incident and admire it

Another way that is the direct way, which has some influence and a serious introspection about my own life 

*3) The officials words and my life*

The officials words can be directly referred to our life 

As such we can reflect the following issues with the words of the officials 

Lord, the forgiveness in my life has just died, but you come and lay your hands on me, it will be restored 

Like wise we can have the following things 

Lord my patience has just died 

Lord my generosity has just died 

Lord my genuine and unconditional love has just died 

Lord the aspects of sacrifice, service, selflessness, hard-work, sincerity, faithfulness, simplicity, truthfulness, have just life. 

*But come, lay your hands on these aspects of my life, and they will be restored*

*How genuine and practical these words of the official in my life?*

*4) What all things have died in my life?*

As we reflect the above phrase, it is very important to realise the death of the kingdom values in some way or the other 

At the point we need to beg the Lord, with deep faith,  Lord you come and lay your hands in me, so that the kingdom values may be restored in my life 

What all things have died in my life? 

At least try to find out few and pray for the restoration of the same 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*