What is there about his word?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 22 Week - Tuesday* 

*GOSPEL - Lk 4:31-37*

*First Reading -1 Thes 5:1-6 9-11*

*What is there about his word?*

*1) People are asking What is there in Jesus' word?*

People who had come to Synagogue, after listening to Him, asking this question *What is there in His Words?*

They are asking this question, because they might have experienced something special, which they might not have experienced so far

They might have asked this question because, they might have perceived the special power, which was hidden in His Words 

They might have asked this question because they might have witnessed some miracles

*2) In Reality what is there is Jesus' Words*

The careful analysis of the Gospel will help us to see the following things in the Words of Jesus 

*There is healing in Jesus' words* : At many occasions, we see that the power of healing goes through His words. He commands the devil and it runs away, He commanded the fever, and the fever left her (Mother in law of Peter)

*There is miraculous power in Jesus' words* : The Gospel clearly shows us that Jesus performs the miracles through his words. The multiplication of loaves, the calming of the sea, etc 

*There is comfort and consolation in Jesus' Words* Jesus says come to me all you who are burdened and I will give you rest. 

Lots of consolation and comfort is found in Jesus' words 

*There is life giving power in Jesus' words* He raised Lazarus to life, Jairus' daughter, the only son of the widow at Nain. All these shows Jesus' life giving power in His words 

*There is Humility in Jesus' Words* While praying to His father He says, *it is not my will, but according to your will be done*

*There is conversion in His words*

Many people who listened to Jesus and finally they changed their life. Eg. Zacchaues, Samaritan woman, sinful woman, Matthew the Tax collector 

*There is sacrifice In His words*: Jesus spoke three times about His own death and resurrection. This shows the sacrifice of Jesus

*There is forgiveness in His words* Jesus forgave many people. He simply says, your sins are forgiven, go in peace 

Finally we can say that in Jesus' words, everything is found *Spirit of prayer, love, concern, truth, Justice, light, hope, encouragement, simplicity, etc

*3) Am I ready to find what is that Found in jesus' words*

Word of God is very dear to us. We read it many times. But do we ask the question that what is the power of Jesus' words?

Have I ever wondered about the power and nature of God's words?

*4) How can I find out the power of Jesus' words?*

Read the scriptures and meditate it

Try to read the Bible and you will find the power of Jesus' words 

Listen to your own conscience, and you will see the power of  word 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Looking intently at Jesus will help to understand better

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 22nd Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 4:16-30*

*First Reading - 1 Thes 4:13-18*

*Looking intently at Jesus will help to understand better*

*1) The eyes of all in the synagogue looked intently at him*

Jesus had come to His native place to visit. At the same time He never forgot to visit the Synagogue. 

In the Synagogue as He was  proclaiming the Scriptures the people in the synagogue looked intently at Jesus 

Looking intently means, with deep concentration they were listening to Jesus, as a result they understood the scriptures and also the divinity of Jesus 

That why the people in synagogue, amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth.

It means they were delighted, thrilled, and were happy to listen to Jesus, which intern helped them to know Jesus and also their own self.

*2) Looking intently at Jesus benefits  in two ways*

First of all it helps the person to know Jesus better, to understand His teaching in a deeper way, and to fall in love with Jesus. This is very important aspect of our life 

Secondly it also helps the person to know himself better. He is able to understand his/her self, his/her attitude and the inner self better 

So it helps in two ways.

*3) Every Christian should look intently at Jesus*

Since Christ is the centre of our life, it is very much necessary that we look intently at Jesus 

Unless we look intently at Jesus, we may not be able to understand His teaching and the values of the Kingdom of God. 

*4) The various ways, through which we can look intently at Jesus*

*Look intently at the Scriptures* Since Jesus is very much present in the Scriptures, looking intently at the Scriptures will help to understand Jesus and also our self better.

*Look intently at the Crucifix*: The sacrifice of Jesus is very much visible on the Cross. Looking intently at the Cross, will save our life for eternal life 

*Look intently at the Eucharist*: The Blessed Sacrament is the most powerful weapon of Jesus' real presence. Looking intently at the Eucharist, will help us to understand the Love commandment of Jesus

*Look intently at the neighbour* : Jesus is very much found in the neighbor, especially those neighbour who are oppressed, marginalized, poor, suffering,  and those who are exploited. Look at intently, and you will find Jesus in them 

*Look intently at your own conscience* Our conscience is God's dwelling place. Looking intently at the conscience will help us to find whether there is Jesus in our life or not, whether we are the Christ or not. But the question is am l able to look at my own conscience intently. This needs a special moral courage. Is there a such moral courage in my life to look the conscience intently???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The contrast between the outside cleaning and inside cleaning

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 22nd Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Mk 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23*

*First Reading - Dt 4:1-2, 6-8*

*SECOND READING - Jas 1:17-18, 21b-22, 27*

*The contrast between the outside cleaning and inside cleaning*

*1) The Scribes and Pharisees speak about ourside cleaning*

They were learned men. Even then they speak only about out side or what appears to be dirty from outside 

They never thought that there are also other faculties of human being which often need the aspect of cleaning, inoder to live a peaceful life 

There are many examples in today's Gospel which only speak about the external cleanliness. They are the following 

*Washing of the Hands*:  This action speaks only about external cleaning 

*Purification of cups and jugs and kettles and beds*

All these things once again highlight the external cleanliness, rather than internal cleanliness

*Washing after returning From Market Place*

Once again this also purely speaks about the external cleanliness, rather than internal cleanliness

*2) Jesus speaks about the internal Cleanliness*

Jesus speaks about the cleanliness of the Heart, than the Body

Cleanliness of the heart is necessary because, Jesus says *"From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.”*

Cleansing of heart from these things is more important than cleansing of the cup, hands, jugs and kettles

*3)  Lips Vs Heart service*

Jesus also speaks about the lips service and praying from the heart 

Lips service is just like external purification, which has no much value 

Lips service is easy like external purification. 

But praying from the heart involves a internal faculties, which are to be pure 

Jesus needs a prayer from Heart, which is free from the above evils and not the lips service, which is nearly a hypocrisy

*4) Commandments of the Lord Vs Human Precepts*

Pharisees and Scribes gave more importance to the human precepts than the Lord's commandment. 

One is forced to follow human precepts, but didn't give much importance to the Lords commandment like justice, honesty, cleanliness of heart and mind 

Jesus highlights the commandment of the Lord and not the human precepts. He spoke about the Love commandment and not rules and regulations which enslave the human beings 

*5) Human Tradition Vs God's commandments*

Humans tradions enslaved people but God's commandments liberated people 

For scribes and Pharisees traditions of the elders were more important than the God's commandments. 

Jesus was much concerned about the God's commandments, which focused on the internal conversion rather than external hypocrisy

*6) External cleanliness is easy But internal cleanliness is hard*

To clean the cups, hands, jugs, and kettles is easy. But to purify ones heart, mind and lips is not easy 

External cleanliness can be done by any one. But internal purification can be done only by the self 

External cleanliness can be done with water, but for the internal cleaning one needs Gods grace and self determination

Am I giving more attention to external things than internal things? 

What is my understanding of internal purification? 

Do I feel that I need very often internal cleaning, rather than external cleaning?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Speciality of the Man Who went on a Journey

Gospel Thoughts

*Memory of St Augustine*

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 25:14-30*

*First Reading - 1 Thes 4:9-11*

*Speciality of the Man Who went on a Journey*

*1) First of all he was ready to share His possessions*

The man who was about to go on a journey, calls his servants and gives them his possessions. 

To one he gave 10% to another He gave 5% and to another he gave 1%

This shows the generosity and greatness of this man to leave his possessions with these servants and to go on a journey

*2) He also gave them Freedom*

The Gospel is very clear that he gave 10 talents, 5 talents 1 talent and he went away 

He didn't specify anything about these talents and what they have to do with that 

The Man on a journey fully gave the freedom to use these talents as they wish 

This also shows the greatness and goodness to the man 

*3) He involved all types of People*

While giving the talents he involved varieties of people 

There was a excellent servant to whom he gave 10 talents

There was an average servant, to him he gave 5 talents 

There was another, his ability was very low, to whom he gave only one talent

This shows that He involved all types of people, brilliant as well dull, average as well as bellow average 

This one once shows the greatness and goodness of the Man on a journey

*4) The Trust of the man on a journey*

He completely believed his servants. That is why he was able to distribute his wealth with his servant 

Without truth one can do nothing. Trust helps us to do our work in a better way. 

*5) He was a responsible Man on a journey*

He not only gives his possessions  and goes away. But at proper time he asks the report from the servants 

Asking an evaluation or making them to become responsible for whatever they have done is a good strategy to be followed by the servants 

Such a system will help both, the master and the servants to see a tremendous growth

*6) From small work he gives them the great responsibility*

After having received reports from the servants, about their work, he gives them greater responsibility

This is the reward he gives for their faithfulness, hard work, sacrifice, for taking risk and earning a good name for the Master as well as to the servants 

Making them more responsible or giving them more prominence is a good quality of a Master

*7) The Strictness of the Master*

The man who went on a journey was very strict in his approach  

Such kind of approach is very much necessary, in order to produce something good 

This is one of the reasons why he asked account from all three servants. 

He also gives them reward and punishment according to their results 

*8) What about my life?*

First of all am I able to share my possessions?

How far am able to trust my friends, when it comes something serious?

Am I able to involve people with different abilities, so as to give them an opportunity to come up in life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Is my lamp running out of oil? - If so what can I do?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 25:1-13*

*First Reading - 1 Thes 4:1-8*

*Is my lamp running out of oil? - If so what can I do?*

*1) Lamp without oil is of no use*

A lamp without oil has no existence. It can't serve in any way 

Lamp can produce light only if the lamp contains oil. Oil is the force which ultimately produces the light 

A lamp with oil can save a person from darkness and can guide his/her journey in a proper direction

*2) Lamps with out Oil*

In the Gospel of the day, We come across a situation of the virgins who had no oil but only the lamps 

When the bridegroom came, they had to light their lamps, but since there was no oil, they could not light it 

Only then they realised that their lamps were running out of oil and they can't use their lamps anymore

*3) The result of Having of oil*

They had to search at the 11th hour 

They could not get the oil very easily 

By the time they got the oil, they were late and could not enter into the wedding feast 

They lost the chance of the wedding feast forever 

*4) The oil which was in the lamp and the oil which was bought later*

The wise virgins had oil in their lamps, that's why they were able to light their lamps immediately and was able to take part in the wedding feast 

The foolish had no oil, at thr time when the bridegroom came, but they managed to get oil later. But it was useless. 

So this aspect highlights the oil, which the Virgin had with them was more important than the oil which was bought afterwords

So we need to underline that, unless we have the oil with us, we can do nothing. One can't depend on others oil. It may not serve our need, when it is most necessary

 

*5) The original oil and the bought oil*

We need to make a difference between these two. 

Those who had original oil in their lamps were wise virgins 

Those who bought and dependent on others oil became foolish virgins 

The bought oil can't replace the original oil and it has no capacity to become original 

*6) My lamp and Oil*

Our life is like a lamp, which should have its original oil 

The oil of Christian faith, the oil of belief in one True God, the oil of sacraments, the oil of commandments of the Lord, the oil humility, generosity, forgiveness, simplicity, service, etc, serve as original oil of our life 

If this oil runs out of from our life, our life has no meaning and it can't shine anymore.

So we need to take care to preserve this oil in our life, so that our lamp of life will shine at all time 

*7) Need to refil it, before it runs out*

The foolish virgins tried to fill thier lamps after it ran out, which was useless 

Had they filled before it ran out, would have been helpful for them 

So we need to refill it, at proper time, from proper source 

*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*

Stay awake - Am I following this?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 24:42-51*

*First Reading - 1 Thes 3:7-13*

*Stay awake - Am I following this?*

*1) We must ask drivers to know the significance of staying awake*

All those drivers who drive the vehicle at night, knows the importance of what is the meaning of staying awake 

A fraction of sleep, which comes during night, while driving the vehicle can be fatal 

I have witnessed it while travelling to Bangalore. A fraction of a second, the driver failed to stay awake, as a result, the bus directly entered into the field. Thank God it was a field, if not the story would have been different 

*2) Ordinary events of life and staying awake*

Staying wake does not only refers at night, and only in the area of sleep 

We need to stay awake in the every aspect of life. 

Like we breath, every moment of our life, we need to stay awake in every walk of our life 

From the moment we get up, until we go to bed, we need to stay awake in everything that we do 

If not, lots of accidents will take place, and we will end up in utter misery

*3) Stay wake, sleep and Night*

In the parable of the weeds and wheat, Jesus clearly says, the enemy comes at an hour when everyone was asleep, sows the weeds and goes away 

Here we understand, that none of them were awake, as a result enemny came and did his work and went away

The tragedy of not being awake was the growth of weeds 

*4) Staying awake and our spiritual life*

The concept of staying awake is very much applicable to our spiritual life 

As the enemy came when everyone was a sleep, our enemy the Satan comes when we fail to remain awake in our spiritual life 

Spiritual slumber is the main cause to lose the control of our life, which ultimately destroys our life 

*5) We need to work hard to stay awake*

Staying awake is not natural. Falling into sleep is natural. To remain awake one has to make efforts and need to work hard 

So *hard work* goes very well with *staying awake*. One who works hard will always stay awake. And one who stays awake, will always work hard. 

Staying awake makes our life meaningful and rich, which can be attained only through hard work. There is no short cut for hard work 

*6) Various ways of staying awake in our life*

As the soldiers of Christ we need to stay awake at times times to fight against the thief and our enemy

The following are some of the ways through which we can stay awake

- Active prayer life makes us stay awake to fight against the Satan 

Service oriented life helps us to stay awake against the attitude of selfishness

Generosity makes us to stay awake against, greed and self centered attitude

Humility makes to stay awake against the attitude of pride 

Forgiveness makes us to stay awake against the attitude of revenge

Smile on our face makes us to stay awake, from the attitude of sadness

Sacrifice makes us to stay awake against the attitude of selfishness

Hardwork helps us to stay awake against the attitude of laziness

Sincerity helps us to stay awake and to fight against the attitude of falsehood

Proclaming Good news helps us the stay awake, against the attitude of gossip

*So the question is am I ready to stay awake?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Life is not a tomb, but a womb

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 23:27-32*

*First Reading - 1 Thes 2:9-13*

*Life is not a tomb, but a womb*

*Is my life equal to a Tomb Building*

*1) The Reality of Tomb Building*

In today's Gospel Jesus makes a mention of Tomb and tomb building 

Primarily tomb are found in the burial ground and we find variety of tombs. 

Some tombs are beautiful, other are miserable in conditions, still others can't be recognised 

But whatever may be the case of the tombs, inside of the tomb, reality is same 

At the most we get some bones, bad smell, scary appearance, and rotten things. This is the reality of every tomb 

*2) The Logic of the Tomb and the Human life*

The Gospel of the day sees a direct connection between the logic of the Tomb with the Human life 

Jesus compares the life of a hypocrite person to the whitewashed tombs 

As the whitewashed tombs apprear beautiful, even though there is lots bad things inside the tomb,  so also the life of a hypocrite person, which at times appears beautiful from outside, but inside full of filth of jealousy, revenge, hatred, pride, anger etc 

Such life, which is equal to whitewashed tombs, is useless and it only highlights the duplicity of ones life 

*3) Tomb comes after death, but if it is applied to life means?*

Usually the concept of tomb comes only after the death of the person 

A living person can't be equated with the Tomb

The very fact when Jesus says that the hypocrites are like whitewashed tomb, they are equal to the dead persons 

Living a life of the dead state, while still one is living on this earth is the biggest tragedy of life 

While still living a person acts like a dead man, that is the greatest tragedy of ones life.

*4) Tombs are end of bodily human life*

Tomb is the end of some aspect of our life. There is a full stop in the tomb. 

When a life becomes like a tomb, there are many good aspects, which see a drastic end, and life becomes meaningless. 

As the bodily life ends in the tomb, when life becomes like a tomb, many of the good aspects of our life see a drastic end. 

A life which loses the good values, loses its life, and only the effects of tomb remain in life. That is the greatest tragedy of ones life 

*5) Tomb building is not a comfortable place*

No body would like to remain long in the burial place, where the tomb building are found 

Primarily it appears as a place of fear, anxiety, end of something, helplessness, scary silence and reality of life 

Like wise a life which is equal to tomb is not very comfortable to live, because it appears as a place of anxiety, tension, helplessness, confusion and fear of many things 

*6) Is my life a tomb building?*

Life with hypocrisy is nothing but a whitewashed tomb

How far am l able to liberate myself from the aspects of whitewashed tomb? 

What are the elements which correspond to the elements of the whitewashed tomb? 

What are the various elements which make my life, a whitewashed tomb? 

Do I believe and propagate the logic of whitewashed tombs in my life?

*7) Life is not a tomb, but its a womb*

Tomb is the end, womb is the beginning

Beyond tomb nothing, beyond womb there is everything

Tomb stops everything, womb continues everything

Tomb can't function by its own, womb can function and it functions

Tomb identified with death, womb identified with life 

Tomb has only unwanted things, womb can have only needed and life giving things 

*Life should be like womb and not like a tomb*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Significance of Seeing Nathanael, by Jesus, Under the Fig Tree

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 21 Week - Wednesday* 

*Feast of St Bartholomew, Apostle*

*GOSPEL - Jn 1:45-51*

*First Reading - Rev 21:9-14*

*Significance of Seeing Nathanael, by Jesus, Under the Fig Tree*

*Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.”*

*1) The significance of the Fig Tree*

The fig tree was symbolically connected to the coming messianic era (Mic. 4:4, Zec. 3:10, 1 Kgs. 4:25). 

In this context, someone who was found under the Fig Tree means, He/she was waiting for Messiah

So the very fact that Nathanael was under the Fig Tree, He was also waiting for the Messiah

This is one of the reasons, why Philip ran and told Nathanael, about the Messiah

*2) The Expression Under the Fig Tree used by Jesus*

When Jesus says that he saw Nathanael under the fig tree, Jesus  is saying that he knew that  Nathanael was eagerly  waiting for the messiah. 

So the expression *Under the Fig Tree* was two way communication between Jesus and Nathanael

First of all Jesus came to know the inner most desire of Nathanael, that is the longing for Messiah

On the other Hand, Nathanael also came to know about the real Messiah - Jesus from this expression

*3) Fig Tree made him to realise the Special power of Jesus*

In fact Nathanael in reality did not see Jesus under the fig tree. 

Probably when he was under the tree, Jesus might not have been passed through that way or even Jesus had passed through that way, Nathanael might not have observed it 

But the fact that Nathanael was the fig tree was true. This can't be nagated 

But How Jesus saw Him was a great question for him. But when Jesus saw him, was not clear to Him. 

Since Jesus saw Him, without his knowledge, and that was true, he might have concluded that Jesus has special powers and He himself is the Messiah

*4) Under the Fig Tree - Another meaning*

While Nathanael was in prayer and reflection under a fig tree, he received a revelation that he would live to see the messiah. 

When Jesus mentions the fig tree, Nathanael realizes that Jesus is the fulfillment of what was revealed to him.

In fact when Jesus used the phrase, *under the Fig Tree* the immediate response of the Nathanael was  *“Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.”*

*5) Where is my Fig Tree?*

Since Fig Tree has a special significance to the coming of Messiah, this becomes a place of prayer, mediation and waiting 

Nathanael was doing the same thing under the fig tree and finally he found the Messiah

If so what about me? Where is my fig tree? 

*The various places which should play the role of Fig Tree in my Life*

The Church, Holy places, shrines, pilgrim centres 

Our own house and special the *altar* of our House  and the family itself 

The neighborhood, society and the place where we do our work 

When we consider these places and the Fig Tree changes will happen in our life 

*6) The need of remaining under the Fig Tree*

Since Nathanael spent his time under the fig tree, finally he was able to find the Messiah

It is not enough to have the fig tree, one needs to spend time under the fig tree, praying and meditating. 

Am I ready to spend my time *under the Fig Tree?*

What is my perception about the fig tree?

How many people recognise me as Nathanael, who is *under the Fig Tree?*

Will Jesus say to me *I saw you under the Fig Tree?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The importance of Thanking and remembering in Prayer

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 23:13-22*

*First Reading - 1 Thes 1:1-5, 8b-10*

*The importance of Thanking and remembering in Prayer*

*"We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers,"*

*1) Paul Silanus and Thimothy thanked God*

They Thanked the Thessalonians community For 

*For their work of Faith* : They were able come to the belief in One true God, that the God of Israel, by giving up their idol worship

*For their labour of Love*

The people had special love towards these God's people. Because of this they supported the disciples of Jesus to spread the Goodnews 

*For their endurance in Hope*

This community had lots of problems and challenges in practicing their faith. In spite of all these challenges they were able to stand firm in their faith. 

Because of these reasons Paul and his comapnuins thanked God for this beautiful community

*2) They remembered this community in their Prayer*

Paul and Companions not only thanked God for their gift, but also offered continuous prayers for this community

Prayers for their wellbeing, for their endurance, for their survival, to face all the challenges, to remain faithful to the Lord, to bear witness to Christ, to support one another, to forgive one another and to share among them whatever they have 

To live a upright and sincer life one needs the support of prayer 

In a way prayer is needed for everything. So Paul and companions continuously prayed for the Thessalonians. 

*3) Effect of Thanking God and praying*

*Prayer* and *Thanks giving* are two powerful things which can change anything in this world

Prayer gives and special divine power and assistance to do some work or to change anything our life 

Thanksgiving is a great gesture of gratitude which makes a person to depend on God, rather than depending on ones own  abilities

History has changed because of prayer and Thanks giving 

*4) A activity can't end without thanks and prayer*

Prayer takes the first part. We begin anything with prayer, asking God's assistance in our work 

Thanksgiving is also part and parcel of any venture. We thank God, people, and the resources we have at our disposal to accomplish the task 

*5) Am I able to Thank and Pray*

Thanking is a great Quality, which all do not have. 

In this context, am I able to thank God and my neighbor? 

Instead of thanking God, for all the Good things, do I find fault with everything and with everyone and criticise right and left 

A person who can't thank God and his neighbor, is basically unsatisfied person, who sees only negativity rather than good things 

*How about my Prayer?*

Am I praying for my own self? My own wellbeing? My own comfort and luxurious life? Such a self centered prayers will never have any power

Instead, pray for others, their wellbeing, their prosperity, their growth. Then our prayer not only becomes effective, we will be blessed with all things, which we need in life, even though we don't pray for it.

This is the Logic of prayer *You pray for others, then you are blessed*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do you also want to leave?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Jn 6:60-69*

*First Reading - Jos 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b*

*SECOND READING - Eph 5:21-32 or 5:2a, 25-32*

*Do you also want to leave?”*

*1) One of the important questions of our life*

Jesus asked this question to His disciples *Do you also want to leave?*

To this question, Peter answers in this way *Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”*

The above answer of Peter shows us that, we can't live without Jesus and for a Christian it is very hard to leave Jesus and live his/her life

*2) Jesus asks the same question to us*

The above question is addressed to us. What is my reply? 

At the peripheral level we may say that we don't want to leave Jesus and live our life 

But the careful examination of our life will show us that we really mean the position

At times our way of life may reflect that we want to go away from our Lord

*3) People went away from Jesus, when they found His teaching was hard to Follow*

The Gospel makes it very clear that, a section of people went back to their former ways because they found Jesus' teaching was hard to follow. 

So that is why they went away from Jesus. 

This is the important point to note, because this particular position also has a great relevance to our Life. 

If so how we can apply this situation to our life?

*4) Some of the ways through which we go away from the Lord*

Some people find very hard to accept the teaching of forgiveness. To this their response would be, *This is too much, who can follow this?* This attitude is a sign that those people want to leave Jesus and go away 

To some people  the virtue *Humility*  is too hard to follow 

Some have difficulty to practice the virtue of *generosity*

Some people can't think of sharing their wealth and resources with others 

For Some people to control the habit of gossip is a great challenge 

Some people can't remain silent without taking revenge for small things 

Some people can't digest the wellbeing of others 

Some people can't think of their life without quarrel, jealousy, division etc 

In all above things, the person is directly or indirectly expressing his/her views in the following words *This is too much, who can follow this?*

So they ignore the teachings of Jesus and fall back to their older/sinful ways 

This shows that they want to leave Jesus' teaching and want to live according to their whims and fancies

*5) What about my life?*

Am I also want to leave and go? 

Am l also want to  leave and go away from good values, moral way of life, generosity, forgiveness, humility, sensibility, God's love, sincerity, sacrifice, commitment, faithfulness, hardwork, love, happiness? 

Am I also go away from from conscience, my family??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The various effective ways of Humbling Oneself

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 21:1-12*

*First Reading - Ru 2:1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17*

*The various effective ways of Humbling Oneself*

*1) Listening to those who are in the seat of Moses*

In today's Gospel Jesus says *Do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,*. 

Those who take the position of Moses, usually tell us what is good to do. Those people who are in that position may not tell us to do harm or evil things 

Since they tell us what is good and beneficial, it is better that we follow what they say, even if the person who is that position may not personally follow what he/she says. 

Only those who are humble in nature will follow such things and not the arrogant one. 

So this is one of the ways of humbling oneself 

*2) Don't expect some one else to you Master*

Master is a word, which shows the position of the person 

Only those who are in a higher position, can be called as Master

Because of ones work, service, sacrifice and outstanding achievement, if they are called Master, one can accept the title. 

One should demand from people to be called Master and Leader. Demanding such position and threatening people through various ways, to be called as *Master* is not a sign of humility. Rather it is a sign of arrogance and hypocrisy

*3) Not to demand honorable places in every function*

There are some people who always demand special place of honour for everything. 

They think that they have to be honoured, recognised and and given prominent places for everything

This is not the sign of humility. But this is the sign of craving for recognition and trying to project a better image, which is not actuslly found in the person 

This is purely the act of hypocrisy, which goes against the virtue of humility

*4) Having a servant's attitude*

Jesus says, one who has servant's attitude, will be great and that becomes a great virtue of humility

Having servants attitude means, ready for any good work

Mother Theresa was the great servant of Jesus the Lord, because she did her service in the attitude of a servant. She was ready to serve the poorest of the poor. She touched people those who were refused by other people 

She lived with those people, those who were left by everyone

She did work, which others were refused to do. 

This is the real servant's attitude, which can be practiced only by those who are humble in nature  

*5) The other various other ways of Humbling oneself  - in our day today life*

*Forgiveness* Only a humble person will able to forgive. Forgiveness helps us to practice the virtue of humility

*Tolerance* It a quality which helps us to become humble and to live a meaningful life

*Smile* Proud will never smile. Smile makes us humane and builds the relationship

*Generosity* Those who find in meaning in generosity are those who practice the virtue of humility

*Positive Energy* Humility builds up the positive energy, Which is very much necessary in our life 

*Selfless Service* : Only a humble person will be able to render the selfless service to others 

*6) The Result of the Virtue of Humility*

Jesus says *"Whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”*

Humility makes a person great not only in the sight of men, but also in the sight of God. 

Humility takes a person to the highest possible heights, because humility in itself is so powerful 

*6) My Life and the virtue of Humility*

How far I practice the virtue of humility? 

What are the ways through which I practice humility in my life? 

What are the obstacles to practice the virtue of humility? 

Do I feel that becoming humble is bellow my dignity? 

How do I evaluate my own life with regard to the practice of humility???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The various effective ways of Humbling Oneself

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 21:1-12*

*First Reading - Ru 2:1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17*

*The various effective ways of Humbling Oneself*

*1) Listening to those who are in the seat of Moses*

In today's Gospel Jesus says *Do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,*. 

Those who take the position of Moses, usually tell us what is good to do. Those people who are in that position may not tell us to do harm or evil things 

Since they tell us what is good and beneficial, it is better that we follow what they say, even if the person who is that position may not personally follow what he/she says. 

Only those who are humble in nature will follow such things and not the arrogant one. 

So this is one of the ways of humbling oneself 

*2) Don't expect some one else to you Master*

Master is a word, which shows the position of the person 

Only those who are in a higher position, can be called as Master

Because of ones work, service, sacrifice and outstanding achievement, if they are called Master, one can accept the title. 

One should demand from people to be called Master and Leader. Demanding such position and threatening people through various ways, to be called as *Master* is not a sign of humility. Rather it is a sign of arrogance and hypocrisy

*3) Not to demand honorable places in every function*

There are some people who always demand special place of honour for everything. 

They think that they have to be honoured, recognised and and given prominent places for everything

This is not the sign of humility. But this is the sign of craving for recognition and trying to project a better image, which is not actuslly found in the person 

This is purely the act of hypocrisy, which goes against the virtue of humility

*4) Having a servant's attitude*

Jesus says, one who has servant's attitude, will be great and that becomes a great virtue of humility

Having servants attitude means, ready for any good work

Mother Theresa was the great servant of Jesus the Lord, because she did her service in the attitude of a servant. She was ready to serve the poorest of the poor. She touched people those who were refused by other people 

She lived with those people, those who were left by everyone

She did work, which others were refused to do. 

This is the real servant's attitude, which can be practiced only by those who are humble in nature  

*5) The other various other ways of Humbling oneself  - in our day today life*

*Forgiveness* Only a humble person will able to forgive. Forgiveness helps us to practice the virtue of humility

*Tolerance* It a quality which helps us to become humble and to live a meaningful life

*Smile* Proud will never smile. Smile makes us humane and builds the relationship

*Generosity* Those who find in meaning in generosity are those who practice the virtue of humility

*Positive Energy* Humility builds up the positive energy, Which is very much necessary in our life 

*Selfless Service* : Only a humble person will be able to render the selfless service to others 

*6) The Result of the Virtue of Humility*

Jesus says *"Whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”*

Humility makes a person great not only in the sight of men, but also in the sight of God. 

Humility takes a person to the highest possible heights, because humility in itself is so powerful 

*6) My Life and the virtue of Humility*

How far I practice the virtue of humility? 

What are the ways through which I practice humility in my life? 

What are the obstacles to practice the virtue of humility? 

Do I feel that becoming humble is bellow my dignity? 

How do I evaluate my own life with regard to the practice of humility???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Which commandment in the law is the greatest?”

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 22:34-40*

*First Reading - Ru 1:1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22*

*Which commandment in the law is the greatest?”*

*1) Intelligent Question*

The above question is one of the intelligent questions, because it has a great relevance to our life

This question, makes us to think about our spiritual life seriously

This question, helps us to find the right way to know the greatest commandment and to practice it in our day today life 

This question helps us to know the gravity of the great commandment

*2) Since he asked question, he got the answer*

The scholar asked this question about the great commandment. 

Since he asked the question, he got the right answer. If he had not asked the question, probably he would not have got this great answer. 

*3) Ask right questions to right persons*

The scholar asked the right question to the right person 

Since he asked the right question to the right person, he got the right answer. Asking right question to the right person is equally important, in order to get right answer 

*4) Intelligent Answer*

The answer to the question was excellent, because it depends on the concept of *Love*

Loving God, with all ones heart, mind and soul and love of the Neighbor is the foundation of all the commandment

Everyone needs love and without love one can't survive. So a commandment which is based on Love becomes more important and relevant to our life 

*5) Asking questions about Spiritual life is more important than anything else in life*

We have so many questions to ask about various wordly things, which is not bad in itself. Such a practice is good to acquire knowledge. 

But asking questions about spiritual things will help us to the important things in our life, which will help us to live a good and peaceful life 

A person who asks questions about spiritual life and reflects about the same, will acquire the wisdom of life, which will make him a great person 

*6) Unquestioned Life*

*The unexamined life is not worth living - Socrates*

Likewise unquestioned life is not worth living 

Growth and change comes only when we question our own life and the behaviour with the intention of growing in life 

Growth always comes with various questions and evaluation

*7) What questions do I ask in my Life*

With what intention I question? 

What is my subject matter of question? 

Do I ask questions with the intention of learning more and growing spiritually in life?

What is the nature of my questions?. Do they really matter in life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Everything is Ready, Come for the Feast : Am I ready

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 22:1-14*

*First Reading - Jgs 11:29-39a*

*Everything is Ready, Come for the Feast : Am I ready*

*1) Kings Preparedness for the wedding Banquet*

The king prepared everything. There wasn't anything lacking 

The items which he prepared for the wedding banquet show his serious and the importance of the function

It was not a simple feast but the wedding banquet of his sons marriage

*2) The Unpreparedness of the guests*

On the other side we see the guests unpreparedness. They were very casual and didn't pay attention to the invitation

Some of them refused to go, some others ignored it and others made fun of the invitation and also ill threated the persons who came to invite them 

Here we see along with the unpreparedness, their arrogance, lack of seriousness and their ignorance about the important things  

*3) The Various types of feasts, to which God invites me everyday*

Like the wedding feast which was organised by the king, we also come across various types of feast in our day today life 

Here we don't talk about feast from the perspectives eating, drinking and making merry. 

We apply this logic to our spiritual life and we can find the following spiritual feasts in our day today life 

*The Feast of Eucharist* : The King - Jesus is always ready with the wedding banquet of the Eucharist. The question is how far I am prepared to enjoy this wedding banquet? 

*The Feast of Reconciliation* : Jesus is always ready to host this dinner at any time of the day, to any one, in any part of the World. There is no shortage of items in this feast. The items like, mercy, forgiveness, reconciliation are available at all time.

 But what is my willingness to receive this banquet?

*The Feast of Service* : Jesus is the Master of service. The opportunities to participate in this feast are plenty. But what is my response? 

*The feast of Love and sacrifice*

The invitation to this banquet meal is available all the time. What is my response? 

*The feast of humility, sincerity, generosity, are available in plenty* - What is my response to these invitation? 

*4)What is the level of my preparedness*

This is the very important questions of our life. The quality of our life depends on the level of our preparedness

How do I prepare? What are the methods do I use in my life? 

*5) The consequences of unpreparedness*

The King was furious. He destroyed their city and also punished them, for their unpreparedness and for their arrogance and pride 

Unpreparedness destroys ones life 

*6) Where is my wedding Garment?*

Wedding garment is the external sign of ones preparedness for the wedding 

The person who came without wearing wedding garment, was thrown into outer darkness

So we need to think about, where are my wedding garments? Am wearing them still today? Or have I lost them

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The hard work and the greatness of the Landowner

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 20:1-16*

*First Reading - Jgs 9:6-15*

*The hard work and the greatness of the Landowner*

*1) The Landowner was a hardworking man*

There are numerous details in today's Gospel to show that the Landowner was very hardworking man 

*A) He went out at dawn*

Getting up early in the morning and beginning the work, when it was still dark is one of the great signs of hardwork. 

The very fact, the landowner went out at dawn means, he got up early in the morning, got himself ready and then he went out for his work 

This is really the sign of hard work 

*B) Five times he went out*

Early in the morning, at 9am, at 12 noon, at 3pm, and at 5pm. 

Going five times in search of the workers also shows how much he taking trouble to accomplish his work. 

This is also one of the signs of hardwork. 

*C) Determination in doing the work*

The Gospel gives the sequence of the events only for one day 

The same events may be taking place very often. Since landowner needs to workers to work in his garden, the landowner have to get the workers now and then 

Doing this work for one is fine. But to do the same work, very often needs great determination. This also the sign of hardwork of the landowner

*2) The Trust of the Landowner in the Workers*

After appointing the workers he tells them to go and work in his vineyard. 

There are no details that the owner went and checked their work, or the Quality of the work. 

It also shows that the landowner completely trusted them and in their ability 

This is also important to carry out ones work in an effective way 

*3) The Patience of the Landowner*

Going five times in search of the workers also shows the patience of the landowner

His patience was great, because he didn't get angry and he was also not irritated. 

This shows once again the great patience of the landowner

*4) The concern of the Landowner*

We must appreciate the concern of the landowner towards the labourers. 

He gathered many workers, not only from the perspectives of making profit or getting his work done by them, but in order to help the workers and to support them 

This point is very clear from the last appointment of the workers at 5pm and the amount of salary given to them 

*5) The generosity of the Landowner*

He paid equal amount to all the workers. By doing so he was very generous towards those who came at 5 pm 

They didn't deserve full amount, but he gave them full 

This shows that he was very generous

*6) He never cheated any one*

Even though towards the end of the parable one of the workers trying to argue with him about the inequality of the amount distributed to them, the landowner clearly shows that he has not cheated anyone, but on the contrary he was extra generous towards them

Generosity is one of the great qualities of a great leader 

*7) He intelligently solves the Problem*

This is a great landowner, who sloves the problem without much difficulty

The worker who argued with him had no explanation, when he was challenged and given explanation by the landowner

When the landowner is sincere and firm nobody can do nothing 

*8) How about my life?*

What are the qualities of the landowner I posses? 

Am I generous person like the landowner? 

Am I a hardworking person like the landowner?/

How about the sincerity, commitment and compassion towards the needy people?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How to Understand the concept of "Rich"

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 19:23-30*

*First Reading - Jgs 6:11-24a*

*How to Understand the concept of "Rich"*

*Jesus says "It will be hard for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of heaven"*

*1) The difficulties for the Rich to enter into Heaven*

The Gospel of the day, speaks about the difficulties and challenges of rich people entering into heaven 

Jesus says *"it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.”*

This appears to be very challenging and at times scary, to many. So in this context how to understand the concept of Rich 

*2) The Concept of rich can be analysed in the following ways*

*A) Rich in Wordly Things*

This is the most common understanding of the concept of Rich 

Those people who have lots of wealth, property, money, gold and silver could be considered as rich people. 

*B) Riches not used for the wellbeing of the other*

It is not wrong to become rich. But the question is what do we do with our riches 

The riches which is not used for the wellbeing of others, which is not used for the most needy brothers and sisters, will put the person into trouble. Such riches will have no value and the person who possess this riches will face hard time to enter into the Kingdom of heaven 

*C) The ways through which one becomes rich*

There are many ways through which one can become rich 

The just and sincere way. This way is most accepted and it is morally right way 

But there are short cuts in becoming rich. Use of muscle power, use of political power, use of force and violence, cheating, unjust ways, taking the advantage and making profit, when people are in difficulty, etc. All these are unjust ways and the people those who become rich through these ways, will have hard time to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven 

*D) Riches are pure God's blessing, but it can become a curse in ones life*

There is no doubt that riches are purely God's gift. Without God's blessing one can't become rich 

But the same riches may become curse, when God given riches are used only for the self, selfish purpose, when one refuses to share it with the most needy, and when it is hoarded without using it, when it is most needed 

Such riches will turn into curse, because the same riches will become a hurdle for the person to get into the kingdom of heaven

*3) Riches in themselves neither Good or Bad*

Riches either become good or bad, depending on how we use it. 

If it is used for good purpose, it will become good 

If it is used for only selfish purpose, it will turn into a hurdle to enter into the kingdom of God.

*4) All of us are Rich*

God has created us with riches which can't be valued 

The rich things that we have are the following

Good health, eyes, ears, reason, working hearts, powerful hands, strong leggs, miraculous brain, mysterious internal organs, sense of touch, smell and emotions. No money on this earth can buy these things 

When we consider all these things, all of us are really rich and we are not poor. God has created us very rich 

Then the question is what do we do with these riches? 

Are we using it to build the kingdom of God or Our own kingdom? 

Depending on the purpose, our riches will be valued by God. 

*Let the riches in my Life may not become a hurdle to enter into the Kingdom of God*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Young Man went away sad - Very very Unfortunate

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 19:16-22*

*First Reading - 1 Jgs 2:11-19*

*The Young Man went away sad - Very very Unfortunate*

*1) Young man goes away sad after meeting Jesus*

Perhaps this is the only incident in the Gospel, that a person goes away with sadness after meeting Jesus 

In the Gospel we have many examples and incidents where people come in search of Jesus and with great difficult they try to meet Jesus. All those who met Jesus and experienced His love and mercy went away with happiness, contentment and with a sense of gratitude

But here is a strange situation where a Young man goes away with sadness, which appears to be most unfortunate 

*2) Who was the cause for His sadness*

When we analyse the incident, the Young man came with lots of hope to know the real truths about eternal life 

In the process he realises that, his possessions were hurdles for attaining eternal life. So he became very sad.

Now the question is who is the cause for his sadness? 

Definitely not Jesus, because Jesus has not caused any kind pain towards the Young man. So Jesus is not the cause of his sadness

His attachment to his possession was the primary cause of his sadness. That made him sad and he went away with sadness

*3) Too much of attachment to the Worldly things is a great threat for our spiritual growth*

The Young man, practically met Jesus, spoke to him, and had all opportunities to experience Jesus' deep love and his divine providence. But even after having personal encounter, he failed and went away sad 

This shows that too much of attachment to the worldly things, is really a threat for the genuine encounter of the Lord. 

So one needs to be careful about this attitude of life

*4) Various Spiritual exercises and my attachments*

We have many spiritual exercises like, prayer, rosary, adoration, Eucharistic celebration, prayer meeting, retreats, pilgrimage to the Holy places etc 

In spite of having all these spiritual exercises, still if we are attached too much to the wotdly things, the above spiritual exercises become fruitless and we go away with sad faces like that Young man. 

It is very difficult for the Young man  to change his perspective because of his deep attachment. As a result he lost everything, went away sad. 

Likewise it may be difficult for us, if we are too much engrossed with the wordly things, and we also lose all the spiritual graces, which results in sadness rather than happiness 

*4) There is no reference of the Young man after his departure with sadness*

Zacchaeus got converted, after he encountered Jesus. Jesus told him, salvation has come to this house. He was saved. 

Samaritan Woman met Jesus, and she went away with joy and Happiness and she was saved, became an apostle to spread the good news 

Matthew the Tax Collector left all his possession, followed Jesus, became an evangelist. 

This young man met Jesus, went way sad. After words no mention about him. Probably with his possession, he was lost forever 

Ultimately His love for wordly things not only made him sad when he met Jesus, it took away his reference from the bible itself. Great tragedy of his life. 

*6) How about my life?*

What is the level of my interest or enthusiasm to meet Jesus? 

Is it only at the peripheral level or at deeper level? 

Do I feel sad or feel happy after I meet Jesus in the ordinary events 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 characteristics of Real Inner Freedom*

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week - Sunday*

*Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary*

*GOSPEL - Lk 1:39-58*

*First Reading - Rev 12:1-6a, 10ab*

*SECOND READING - 1 Cor 15:20-27*

*The characteristics of Real Inner Freedom*

*1) Independence day and Freedom*

August 15th is a special day for all the Indians to celebrate our independence day. 

This day also helps us to reflect about the concept of freedom and to know how to exercise our freedom 

As we thank the Lord, for this great day, we also pray for our country, so that we can really experience this independence in our day today life 

*2) Independence day & Assumption of our Mother into Heaven*

For this special day we are fortunate to celebrate the solemnity of the Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven 

This feast once again helps us to reflect about the concept of freedom and the ways of experiencing the same freedom in our day today life.

*3) Characteristics of Genuine inner Freedom*

The life of Mother Mary helps us to reflect about the characteristics of genuine inner freedom. The following could be some of them from the life of Mary our Mother 

*A) Real inner freedom consists in accepting the Will of God*

Mary accepted the will of God, without any conditions and without any force. It was a unconditional free acceptance. This is possible only to those who can enjoy the real inner freedom in life 

*B) Genuine inner freedom consists in offering onrself to God*

"I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done unto me according to your Word". These words of Mary shows 100% offering of oneself to the Mission of the Lord. This is possible only for those who can really enjoy the genuine  inner freedom 

*C) Genuine inner freedom consists in Praising God and accepting others goodnees* 

The magnificat is one of the beautiful songs of praising God. Genuine praise of God, and acknowledging the greatness and goodnees of others can be possible to only those who experience the genuine inner freedom 

*D) Genuine Freedom consists in Serving*

Mary went immediately to serve Elizabeth. The entire life of Mary consists in service in diffent places at the different situation. This is one the characteristics of genuine inner freedom 

*E) Genuine inner freedom consists in Courage*

Mother Mary's courage was something spectacular and amazing. 

From the conception of Jesus till His death on the Cross, Mary had faced all kinds of worst challenges of life. But she never gave up. She stood firm and accepted all the challenges of Life. 

This is another characteristic of genuine inner freedom 

 *F) Genuine inner freedom consists in listening God*

Mother Mary listen to God carefully and she followed the destiny which was showed by God 

Listening is not a easy work. Its demanding and challenging. 

Only those who experience the inner freedom can listen and understand God. 

*G) Genuine inner freedom also seen in ones humility, total dependence on God, generosity and brotherly affection. 

*4) My life and Genuine inner Freedom*

Am I able to enjoy the real inner freedom in my life?

What are the characteristics, which I posses in my life which lead to my life towards inner freedom 

As long as we are slaves to bodily temptations, luxurious  way of life and with out challenges, we can't experience the genuine inner freedom.  

Am I growing towards real inner freedom or going away from it?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various things which rebuke my Spirit of Prayer

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 19:13-15*

*First Reading - Jos 24:14-29*

*Various things which rebuke my Spirit of Prayer*

*1) Disciples rebuked the People who wanted to come to Jesus*

People wanted to come to Jesus along with their children, for the prayer 

The intention of the people was to have blessings from Jesus. They wanted their children to be blessed by Jesus, by laying hands on them 

So people came along with their children to meet Jesus 

But the disciples rebuked the people and asked them to go back without meeting Jesus 

In a way the disciples of Jesus became a hurdle for the people to come to Jesus 

*2) Things which rebuke our spirit of prayer in the Modern world*

There are many things which rebuke our spirit of prayer in order to weaken our prayer life. We need to be careful from such things. Some of them may be following

*Modern Media* At times the modern media has become a threat to our spirit of prayer. The colourful temptations for various worldly things rebuke our spirit of prayer. We need to be very careful about it 

*Mobile* This is another powerful instrument which rebuke our spirit of prayer. With mobile, the WhatsApp, mobile games, various types of addiction have become a real headache to everyone, which really rebuke our spirit of Prayer and holiness 

*Time* Time has become very important concept to every one. Today every one runs after time. *Busy* and *no time* are the slogans of the day. These slogans really rebuke and threaten the spirit of prayer 

*The need of Prayer* Today many are feeling that prayer is not needed. Some say  *I don't get anything by praying* such kinds of attitude really rebuke my spirit of prayer 

*The Culture of Things*  Materialism or Love for worldly things, and the belief that things in life will make our life meaningful and rich. Such attitude really rebuke our spirit of prayer 

*Eating Culture* The fast food culture, alcohol, drugs, and the greed to eating, also rebuke my spirit of prayer. So need to be very care ful 

*Bad habits* Bad habits like, cheating, lying, taking revenge, jealousy, hypocrisy, gossip, are other dangerous things which threaten our spirit of prayer 

*3) People were not frightened about the Disciples*

When the people were rebuked by the disciples, they didn't go back. They remained there because they wanted by all means their children to be blessed by Jesus 

In other words the determination of the people were so great, they didn't give up fight for the blessing. 

Ultimately people won in their fight and they were lucky to be blessed by Jesus 

*4) The intervention of Jesus*

When the disciples rebuked, Jesus intervened, and asked His disciples not to rebuke them but to allow them to come to Him 

First of all Jesus was very near to the people and Knew the exactly what the wanted 

Secondly Jesus' intervention is to bless the people and to make them Holy 

Finally Jesus layed His hands on them and blessed their children and He made all them holy. 

*5) What are the things which rebuke/threaten my spirit of prayer Life?*

As we reflected above it is very important to reflect about those things which threaten my spirit of prayer life 

Pride, anger, jealousy, greed, revengeful attitude, desire for bodily pleasures, hypocrisy, arrogance, selfishness, narrow-mindedness, hated, miserliness etc. 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Whose Fruit am I enjoying in my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 19:3-12*

*First Reading - Jos 24:1-13*

*Whose Fruit am I enjoying in my Life?*

*"I gave you a land that you had not tilled and cities that you had not built, to dwell in; you have eaten of vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.”*

*1) Israrel enjoyed God given things*

The last words of the first reading today, reflects reality of God's goodness and generosity towards the people of Israel 

The land they occupied, the Cities they had and the vineyards they enjoyed and olive groves they used, was everything free of cost was given to them 

In one words, they enjoyed the things, which they had not worked for it 

*2) I do enjoy the things, which I have not worked for it*

There are many things, which I enjoy in my life, for which I have not worked for it 

The city where I live 

The facility which I use, water, electricity, road, vehicle, schools, hospitals, 

The work I have today, is a gift. Its not I who invented the work. I only carry on the work 

The care, concern, friendship, love, and service - once again are the valuable things in life, which I enjoy not because I worked for it, but because of someone's goodness 

Every aspect in life is the gift of God and from others. We need to realise this great Truth. 

*3) Great Truth of life*

The realization that - I enjoy the things which are the result of some one else's hard work is one of the great truths of our life 

The moment we realise this great fact, our life changes and we come to know the value of others hard work 

The ignorance about the fact will make a person  more proud and arrogant, which intern will affect our life 

*4) What is my responsibility?*

First of all I need to be very grateful for the things I enjoy in my life, which is the result of someone else's hard work 

Secondly I must work hard, so that the future generation may enjoy the good facility, because of my hard work 

Thirdly we need to remain Grateful to God, at all times because whatever we have is His gift. We none of us can posses any of the things because of our merits 

Such attitude in life will make us great persons, and we will become effective instruments in the Hands 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*

How are the Accounts of my Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 18:21–19:1*

*First Reading - Jos 3:7-10a, 11, 13-17*

*How are the Accounts of my Life*

*1) King decides to settle the Accounts with His Servants*

The Gospel makes it very clear that King wanted to settle the account with His servants 

So when the accounting began, King also found that there was one who had not paid back, what he had taken 

So he ordered to get back the things, which he was suppose to give back. Since he pleaded, the king gave him more time 

But the servant failed to show the same amount of sympathy to His fellow servants 

Any way the whole process highlights the importance of accounting and seeing, how the things are 

*2) The Logic of Accounts and the Life*

 

The Logic of accounts can be applied to life in a practical way 

There are some aspects in the accounts, which are very much useful to audit our life and to see how is the situation of our life 

The various aspects could be following 

*The Receipts and Payments*

This is one of the important aspects in accounting. This aspect we need to apply to our life

*Receipts could be from three different sources*

The things which we have *received from God*- Gift of life, skills, talents, intelligence, reason, good health, good life, and many other countless things 

*Received from Others*

So many things we receive from others - love, care, concern, forgiveness, support, etc 

*Received From the Nature*

The air, water, light, place, beauty, peaceful atmosphere etc 

*Payments of our life*

The things we pay to God : Good as well as bad things 

The things that we pay to others : Good as well as bad

The things we pay to the nature : Good as well as the bad. 

When we receive good things from God, neighbor and from the nature, what are my payments, or what do I give? 

*3) Interest on Fixed Deposit*

In the account fixed deposits are of great value to make profits. What are my fixed deposits? 

My Prayer and spiritual life

Good and value based life 

Sincerity and faithfulness

Humility and generosity

Forgiveness and patience

Like fixed deposits,these help us to get regular income through the form of interest. 

If so what are the fixed deposits of my life?

*4) Bad loans*

The whole accounting system collapses when there are huge forms of bad loans 

Life may also suffer because of bad loans. This could be following 

Revenge, Anger, Hatred, Pleasure, Greed, Pride, Arrogance, unfaithfulness, unforgiveness,  jealousy, gossip etc 

These bad loan in no way will help us to improve the profit of our life 

*5) Assets and Liabilities of Life*

Assets are always good and they are strength of the accounts 

Liabilities are the burdens, which weaken the accounts and ultimately results in the utter loss. 

What are the assets and liabilities of my life?

*6) What is the Balance Sheet of our life*

Balance sheet shows the statements of the accounts as they are 

One could asses the situation of the business, whether it is running under profit or loss, what are the assets and liabilities

So what is the balance sheet of my life? 

What are the assets of my life? What are the liabilities of my life? 

Is there a profit or loss as of now? 

How is the condition of my life? 

What must I do immediately to make my life's account perfect? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of Personal settlement

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 18:15-20*

*First Reading - Dt 34:1-12*

*Importance of Personal settlement*

*1) Various ways of Settlement*

The Gospel of the day has the incident of dispute between two and shows diffent  ways through which one can settle the dispute 

Among all the ways, Jesus highlights the personal settlement as the first and best way

Since Jesus highlights this way as the *first way* it must have a special significane to our life.  

*2) Personal settlement is the best settlement*

Everyone agrees this matter and reason for this argument could be the following 

*Easy Way* Among all ways this appears to be very easy way, because, less number of people are involved

*No much formalities* In this way there aren't many formalities to follow. So once again it becomes very easy 

*The matter does not go out* When there are only two people are involved, the matter does not go out. This in turn helps the parties to keep up their good name, their reputation and healthy relationships with others 

*Success rate is more* The very fact that the personal settlement is initiated, it is a green signal for settling the dispute. Otherwise usually the settlement will not take place at the personal level 

*Parties themselves take initiative* In the personal settlement since the parties are directly involved, it speaks about their seriousness in settling the matter. They are able to listen, they are able to see their weaknesses and they invent ways to settle the matter 

*3) Effect of personal settlement*

It gives more satisfaction to both the parties 

They feel proud, because they were able to come to a consensus, and they are able to adjust 

There is a less amount of anger, hatred and painful feeling towards the other 

This settlement becomes a lesson for many other things in life 

*4) Personal settlement works effectively in the beginning Stage*

The effect of personal settlement is very powerful only at the initial stage of dispute 

If parties do not try for the personal settlement in the initial stages of the dispute, the chances of personal settlement at the later stage would be very difficult 

So one must try to have this settlement at the initial stage 

*5) The danger of reversing the Order*

First at the personal level between the parties 

Secondly at the level of two extra persons to help the party 

Thirdly the bigger community is involved

The moment we reverse the order, things become worse. 

At times we follow the last step first and first step at last 

*6) The third person and the dispute*

At times the dispute goes to the third person, rather than to the concerned person 

The third person represents the bigger community, the media, mobile, WhatsApp etc

So at times disputes goes to all these level and the situation becomes worse 

We need to be careful with regard to these modern third parties which practically spoil our name rather than settling the disputes 

*7) How do I settle my disputes?*

Is it at the personal level or do I first use the last method, that is proclaiming everywhere and finally coming to the person? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

New life in the Death

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week - Tuesday*

*Feast of St Lawrence the Martyr*

*GOSPEL - Jn 12:24–26*

*First Reading - 2 Cor 9:6–10*

*New life in the Death*

*1) The death of the seed*

In the process of Sporting the seed, the it loses its originality

It has to break itself and some part of it, will decay and it no longer remains in the seed form 

In other words we can say that, in losing some of its aspects, the seed dies to these aspects. 

So death occurs only in certain aspects of the seed and not the entire seed dies altogether

*2) The New life after death*

When some aspects of the seed dies, the seed takes another form, which itself is called new life 

To have this new life, the seed has to undergo some major changes, which results in new life 

So the general understanding *"new life comes after the death of some aspects of the seed* Hence we can say New life comes always through the death 

*3) The need of death for new Life*

There is no shortcut for new life, other than the death of old aspects of our life 

Only when certain aspect of the reality dies, the new forms emerge. Without the death of these unwanted things, there is no new life 

So the death is the precondition for the new life 

*4) Apart from physical death, we need to realise the other forms of death*

The moment we think about death, we analyze about the physical death of a reality 

Giving to our understanding, physical death is the end of everything. But physical aspects are only one part of the reality. There are also other realities in our life, to  which we need to die in order to have new life 

The following things fall into this category

The death of anger, gives new life peace and harmony 

The death of pride, brings new life to humility

The death of revenge, makes the life of forgiveness possible

The death of greed, gives new life to generosity

The death of selfishness, gives new life to selflessness

The death of, self-centeredness gives new life to service, sacrifice, 

The death of hatred gives new life to love 

The death of falsehood gives new life to truth 

So the above examples make us clear the death of certain things in  life, bring new form of life, which is very much necessary

*5) In actuality the seed does not die, only certain aspects*

The careful analysis shows us, in actuality the seed does not die. Only certain aspects of it die. 

This also shows that, life is more powerful than the death. Death can't take control of all the things. Only at the peripheral level it can act 

So life and new life is more powerful than the death

*6) The need of Daily death, for the New Life* 

The new life always, brings new fruit. 

Life is meant for producing new fruits every day. So it also demands that the process of death, should take place every day in life 

Since there is no life without death, in our life too, unless certain aspects die in our life, no new life is possible

If we have experienced the new life in our life, definitely there was death of many of the aspects which were hurdle to new life 

The main purpose of our life is to die every day to those things, which hinder the new life, which gives us new direction.

*If so like seed am I ready to die?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*