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*