The Importance of the "Little Way" of St Theresa

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week - Friday*

*Feast of St Theresa of Child Jesus*

*GOSPEL - Mt 18:1-4*

*First Reading -  Is 66:10-14*

*The Importance of the "Little Way" of St Theresa*

*1)  Ladder with two different types of Steps*

Recently I came across a picture which had two ladders. 

Both the ladders had same height and same width. But there was one difference 

One ladder has 15 steps and the other ladder had only 7 steps. 

Since the height was same the ladder which had 15 steps the distance between the steps was very less. Whereas the ladder which had only 7 steps the distance between was so much ordinary person would find extremely difficult to climb 

But the ladder which had 15 steps even a small child can climb the ladder 

*2) Importance of the Small steps*

The above examples shows us the importance of the small steps 

Small steps are easy to climb and to reach the destiny. But the longer steps are not very easy to climb. It needs something else to climb the same 

Even the steps are small they are not insignificant. Small steps have great value and they are the foundation for the next and the gtrwater  steps

*3)  Theresa's Little Way*

St Theresa of Child Jesus is known for her *Little Way*

The *Little Way* is not a insignificant way, but it became a great way for the holiness and sainthood of St Theresa. 

That's is why the way itself is called the *Little Way*

*4)The Logic of the Little Way*

The *Litlle Way* shows that doing the little works of our life with utmost attention and with perfection

For example a small gesture of giving a cup of cold water. It may a small and simple work. But this work can be done with full love, smile, and with a gesture of gratitude. When we do the small things with these value they become great things 

So the Logic of the *Little Way* is very simple. Do every little at times so called insignificant things with utmost love and perfection. 

Such an attitude will make the *Little Way* into great way 

*5) Kingdom of God and Little Way*

Jesus refers many small things while explaining the Kingdom of God 

For Example, The mustard Seed, Yeast, Seed in the parable of the sower, parable of the Wheat, birds of the air, two little copper coins of widow, lillies of the Field, 

All these things are used to describe the Kingdom of God. Even though they are small, yet they have great significance. 

*6) Tip of the needle and the tip of the mountain*

One can not stand on the tip of the needle. But one can stand on the tip of the mountain. 

Tip of the needle is very small and insignificant thing. But when it comes to the standing on it, it becomes impossible. 

So this shows the importance of the Little things and the Little way 

*7) Child's way is Little Way*

In today's Gospel we have a child whom Jesus presents to his disciples and tells them, unless you become like a children, you can never enter into the Kingdom of Heaven 

Becoming like children means paying attention to the small things 

Becoming like children means, using the little ways of children like humility, trust, simplicity, innocence, believing, learning from the elders so on 

 *8) Am I ready to follow the Little Way?*

Unless one understand the importance of it one may not be able to follow 

Following the little way with utmost perfection needs a strict discipline and determination

Patience and hard work are the foundational things on which the little is built up

*If so am I ready to follow the little way?* 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of Staying, Eating and Drinking in the House

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 10:1-12*

*First Reading -  Neh 8:1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12*

*Importance of Staying, Eating and Drinking in the House*

*1) Jesus came to meet Human Being*

The primary purpose of Jesus' coming into this world is to meet the human being 

Since the mission of Jesus involved the salvation of the Human beings, it was necessary to meet the human beings

So Jesus became a human being to meet him, in his own nature and in the living  context of Human being 

*2) House is the best place to meet the People*

Among all the other means, house becomes the best means of meeting the human being 

Even though there are other places of meeting the Human beings, there is no best place other than the house where human being begins his life, grows and accomplishes his mission 

*3) House is a place of Staying, Eating and Drinking*

When we speak about house there are some particular things which are special to the house 

Apart from living in the house, staying, eating and drinking are the most intimate and important things that take place in the house 

So people usually like to stay, eat and drink in the house than in other places, because house is dear to all 

*4) The Symbolic meaning of Staying, Eating and Drinking in the House*

Staying, eating and drinking are the things which highlight the importance of the relationship

A stranger can not stay, eat and drink in the house of another whom he/she does not know the other 

Only a person who is familiar can stay, drink and eat with the other 

This also shows that depth of relationship. So one should know the importance of staying, eating and drinking in the house 

*5) Holy place is a house of God*

As we have a house to live, the Holy place is the house of God

God's presence is found in his house only for our sake, to meet and to give a special spiritual experience

We need to go to God's house in order to stay, eat and drink in the house of God  

*6) Staying in the House of Jesus, Eating and Drinking*

Since we are the disciples of Jesus we are suppose to stay, eat and drink in the house of Jesus 

The house of Jesus consists in forgiveness, service, love, sacrifice, sharing, suffering, and in building the Kingdom of God

We are suppose to stay in these values, eat and drink these things, 

So it is not merely eating, drinking material food and staying idol in the house of Jesus 

*7) Am I ready to stay in the House of Jesus and Eat and Drink*

Jesus welcomes all the time at all situation and to any one to his house 

But the question is am I ready to enter into the house of Jesus, to stay, to drink and Eat 

Staying in the house of Jesus lots of self discipline, lots of sacrifice and determination. Only then one can stay in the house of Jesus to eat and drink 

*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*

The Archangels and their mission

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week - Wednesday*

*Feast of the Archangels*

*GOSPEL - Jn 1:47–51*

*First Reading -  Dn 7:9-10, 13-14 or Rev 12:7-12ab*

*The Archangels and their mission*

*1) Archangel Michael*

The name Gabriel in Hebrew signifies *Who is like God*

He is called *great prince* in catholic tradition

The archangel has four offices 

A) To fight against Satan 

B) To rescue the souls of the faithful from his grasp, especially at death 

C) To be the special Patron of Holy Church

D) To bring men's soul to judgement

He is also held to be the special Guardian Angel of the Pope. 

*2) The Archangel Gabriel*

The name Gabriel means *The Power of God* or *Hero of God* in Hebrew

He is one of the seven Angels who *Stand before God* 

Angel Gabriel is known as the *Messenger of glad or consoling tidings*

He announced the Birth of John the Baptist in the Temple to Zachariah

Above all he is known as the *Angel of Annunciation* because it was he who informed Mary that she had been chosen to become the Mother of the Incarnate Word. 

Christian tradition also believes that it was Angel Gabriel who gave the message to the Shepherds and to Joseph in connection with the flight of the Holy Family to Egypt 

He is the one who *Strengthened* our Lord in the Garden of Oilves 

*3) Archangel Raphael*

In Hebrew Raphael means *God has healed* 

He is also one among seven angels who always  stand before the throne of the Almighty 

He has a special power to heal - which is seen in healing the blindness of Tobit in Old Testament

He is the Patron saint of travellers, of the Young, and the innocent

*4) Our life consists in Three dimension mission*

First of all fight against the Satan and to save our soul from Satan 

Secondly we are given the mission of announcing the Good News 

Thirdly, we have been called to bring healing to wounded world 

As a faithful disciples of Jesus we are suppose to play these three functions of the Archangels, to build heaven on this earth.

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*

Journey to Jerusalem through Samaritan village

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 9:51-56*

*First Reading -  Zec 8:20-23*

*Journey to Jerusalem through Samaritan village*

*1) The identity of the Samaritan people*

Jews considered that Samaritans were not pure blood people. Because they had relationship with other pagan tribes. So their blood was contaminated and impure 

Because of this they were spiritually corrupt people and pagan foreigners.

They created their own religion and temple which Jews considered as heresy 

When Jews returned to rebuild Jerusalem, they were opposed by Samaritans. So the enminty grew further 

To the Jews, a Samaritan was more revolting than a Gentile (pagan); Samaritans were half-breeds who defiled the true religion.

That's why Jews hated the Samaritans and there was lot enmity between them 

*2) The place of Jerusalem*

For Jews Jerusalem was a holy and sacred place. It was the place of their identity

Jerusalem was a place where the great Temple existed and every Jew would visit this place 

Jerusalem was a place of God's dwelling and God's presence was very much felt at the temple of Jerusalem

So Jerusalem was everything for Jews and it was their pride and identity

Symbolically Jerusalem represented the Eternal city to which every one shuoud go 

*3) Jesus' journey to Jerusalem*

Today's Gospel says that Jesus was determined to go Jerusalem. 

It was a very important journey for Jesus because through this journey He would accomplish His mission 

Apart for this physical journey, a journey towards eternal city, to heaven is also could be seen here

*4) Journey to Jerusalem through Samaria*

As we know that Jerusalem and Samaria stand in two opposing directions. 

Jerusalem stands for holiness, eternity and to heaven 

Samaria stands for problems, wordly things, hurdles, challenges, non cooperation, difficulties, uncertainties, sin and evil things 

So Jesus' journey to Jerusalem happens through Samaria and in the Samaritan village  something happens

That's why the disciples were angry and they asked Jesus  *Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven  to consume them?”*

This reaction of the disciples shows the gravity of enmity between Samaritans and Jews

*5) Our journey to Jerusalem - Heavenly city*

Jesus' journey to Jerusalem was not easy

Like wise our life's journey to  so called Jerusalem that is heaven is not easy 

It will have to pass through Samaritan villages, where there is no welcome, no cooperation, where there is frustration, a kind of desperate situation, a challenging position, a situation to take revenge, a situation to get angry etc 

This is the part and parcel of our life's journey towards our heavenly Jerusalem 

*6) What is my Reaction in life's journey*

When my life's journey is faced with the Samaritan village what's my response? 

Is it like the disciples to get angry and to take revenge on them?

Is it a kind of prayer to destroy them? 

Do I wish to use things like fire to destroy them and tk procced in my journey? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Doing Good Work and Belonging to a particular Group

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 26 Week - Monday* 

*GOSPEL - Lk 9:46-50*

*First Reading -  Zec 8:1-8*

*Doing Good Work and Belonging to a particular Group*

*1) Good Work and a particular Group*

In today's Gospel there are two things which are highlighted 

First of all there is an unidentified man who was performing the miracle that is casting out the demon by using the name of Jesus 

Secondly the person who was casting out the demon was prevented from doing so, by the disciples of Jesus because he was not belonging to their group 

Now the issue is good works and the particular group. 

So the question is - is the good work belong to only one group???

*2) The mentality of the Disciples*

According to the mentality of the disciples it is clear that they were of the opinion - only those who belong to their group can use the name of Jesus in casting out the demons

In a way they thought that the person of Jesus, His name and the power of performing the miracle belongs only to them and not to others 

This seems to be a very narrow understanding, a type of gropism and a kind of rigid mentality which is hurdle for growth

*3) Good work is not the property of a particular Group*

Good work can't be restricted to any particular group or person, or culture, or tradition or to particular religion or region. 

In fact good work can be done by any one, at any moment, at any place, and at any situation. 

It can be done by a child or a elderly person or by young person. That is the nature of the Good Work 

*4) The culture of Groupism is on Rise*

Today we are facing a new culture, which is called the culture of Group

Accordingly people are divided based on some group principles and they claim that they are suppose to do good works for the sake of others 

The culture of groupism is becoming dangerous because it is a threat for good work done by other than the group members 

So we need to such groups, which go against the nature of Good work by any one 

*5) Good works does not depend on Group mentality*

There is no connection between these two things 

One need not belong to my group, or to the thought pattern, in order to do good work. 

The concept of good work is a creative concept which has 101 ways and 101 people to do the same 

All need not belong to my group

*6) Am I suffering from group syndrome?*

A syndrome is a kind of disorder, which makes a person to function in a normal way 

A person who suffers from group syndrome, can't accept and respect  others. 

Such a person is able to see only one side, which is only a partial truth, at times such positions are dangerous

Am I suffering from group syndrome?

What type of group syndrome I have,?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do not prevent the one who is doing Good

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Mk 9:38-43, 45, 47-48*

*First Reading -  Nm 11:25-29*

*SECOND READING Jas 5:1-6*

*Do not prevent the one who is doing Good*

*1) Good can't come from evil Source*

Any Good work has its origin and Source in Goodness itself. Since God is only the pure Good every good work can have source only in Him. 

Since all good work come from God, one should respect the good work and support it 

So God is the source of all good work 

*2) Jesus says not to prevent the Good Work*

When the disciples prevented the Good work done by some one else, they prevenred him doing so. 

So when Jesus learnt that, His disciples prevented the Good Works He clearly says that, they should not prevent the good work, but they should support the good work 

So it is clear that when something is good, it must be accepted by all and every one should support in doing good 

*3)  Good work is not the property of the Few*

The disciples, were of the opinion that only those people who belong their group could use the name of Jesus and do good works 

They thought that others should not use the Holy name of Jesus in doing good work 

But Jesus says then that any body can do the good work. 

Thus Jesus declared that good work is not the property of few people, it is not the property of the particular religion or region, or particular race, or culture or rich and powerful people 

Good works belong to every one and every one can do some or the other good work

*4) Preventing good work is devilish*

The disciples stopped who was casting out demons in the name of Jesus 

This is something good work. Stopping such a good and great work could be a devilish act and not casting out the demons 

So today any one who tries to stop the good work, could be called as the act of devil. So one should be careful about such an act. 

*5) The culture of preventing good works*

In today world the culture of preventing the good work is on rise

When some one tries to do something good, there are lots of hurdles in this process. There are many people and many groups which try to prevent the good works 

Today the culture of dividing certain good works,  only to certain groups or to the religion or to some influential organization is becoming very common. As a result the culture of preventing good work is becoming very strong 

*6) God given senses for good work*

The Gospel of the day also highlights the importance of the eyes, hands, and legs. These are precious gifts of God to each one of us 

All these are given to do good work and not to prevent the good work 

When we use these God given senses and our life itself to prevent good work, our life becomes useless. But when it is used for good things our life becomes fruitful 

Jesus says, if our senses prevent us from doing good we need to cut them off and throw them out. This shows how much care we should take in using these things for doing good 

*7) What about my life?*

Am I doing good or preventing the good that is happening in my surroundings? 

Am I using the God given faculties for doing good or preventing good? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Lord Says, "See, I am coming to dwell among you" - What is my response?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 9:43b-45*

*First Reading -  Zec 2:5-9, 14-15a*

*The Lord Says, "See, I am coming to dwell among you" - What is my response?*  

*1) Mother Mary's Response*

When the Angel Gabriel, came and communicated the message about the Lord's coming and dwelling in the life of Mary - She responded to the invitation of God

She Said I am the handmaid of the Lord, be it done unto me according to your Word

That's why God became man and dwelt first in the Womb of Mary and then among us 

*2) The same God is coming today to dwell among us - what is my response?*

The first reading of Today from the book of Zechariah tells us clearly that *See, I am coming to dwell among you*

So how do I respond to this call in my life?

How does my Lord comes into my life? 

Unless we know how does he comes we can't welcome Him. 

So how does he comes in my life?

*3) Some of the examples to reflect*

In the Life of Mother Theresa the Lord came in the form of destitutes and lepers. Mother Theresa accepted Jesus in her life 

In the St Francis of Assisi the Lord came in the form of poor beggar. Francis was able to recognise the Lord and he accepted the Lord

In the Life of Ignatius of Loyola, the Lord came in the Form of needy person who needed a soldier to take care of him, to educate him and finally to liberate him from his slavery. That's why Ignatius became the powerful soldier of Christ 

In the Life of Fr Stan Swamy, the Lord came in the form a person, who was denied Justice, whose belongings were taken unjustly and whose fundamental rights were exploited. Fr Stan Swamy accepted this call and welcomed Jesus in his life and gave his life for the sake of Jesus 

*4) How does My Lord comes in my life?*

Today the Lord will not come in a magistic way. He comes comes in the form of a needy person 

Today the Lord comes in the form of a poor person, exploited person, sick person, desperate person, physically handicapped person, a suffering person, a person who desperately looking for some food to eat, some place to rest, 

These are the various forms through which the Lord wants to  come to my life. What is my response? 

*5) Some of the things which prove that the Lord dwells in me*

Forgiveness is one form of the Lord, through which the Lord dwells in me. 

Other forms through which the Lord dwells in me are the following 

Generosity

Smile 

Care and concern 

Humility

Service, sacrifice and sharing 

Helping nature

Supporting others 

All the evil things which at times people practice in their life show that the Lord does not dwell in them

What about my life? To which category do I belong?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the LORD of hosts

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 9:18-22*

*First Reading -  Hg 2:1-9*

*Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the LORD of hosts*

*1) Lord's call to build the Temple*

Prophet Haggai preached in Jerusalem around 520 BC. During that time people were in Babylonian slavery and the temple had been in ruins. 

The Lord gives a call to the People of Israel through the prophet Huggai and people came together to build the Temple 

When the people were freed from the slavery of Babylon, the first thing they focused was the building of the temple 

Thus they regained their identity through the temple and they were able to worship the Lord 

*2) Rebuilding of the Temple was necessary*

Since the former temple had been destroyed by the enemies, they had to rebuild the temple of the Lord once again 

Rebuilding of the temple was an extraordinary experience because, they realised the importance of the temple

Rebuilding also helped them to regain the glory of the temple and also their own identity.

*3) We are the temple of the Holy Spirit*

St Paul says that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit 1 Cor 16:19.

As people of Israel came together to rebuild the temple, I need to rebuild the temple of my life every day 

Since there are many things which happen in my life on day today basic, they also affect the sanctity of this temple of my life 

At times the gravity of the evil things are so great in life, they practically destroy the Holiness of the  temple of our life 

So the need of rebuilding the temple of my life is very much necessary

*4) Rebuild the temple for a purpose*

People of Israel rebuilt the temple for prayer and to worship the Lord. It also gave them the real identity. The glory of the new temple was greater than the former one 

Like wise when we rebuild the temple of our life is to covert this place into a place of holiness, prayer and divine experience

Rebuild the temple of ones life in order to experience God in ones life

The Glory of this rebuilt temple will be far superior than the former one

*5) Things necessary to rebuild the Temple*

First of all listen to the call of God 

Secondly we need to have the virtue of Courage. In today's first reading the word *courage* comes at least few times. Which also shows the importance of it

Thirdly the community spirit is very important in rebuilding the temple or working together

*6) Am I ready to Rebuild thebTemple of my Life?*

First of all I must realise that my temple the temple of the Holy spirit is in bad conditions, because of my sinful life 

Secondly have courage to venture into this task, by trusting God 

Thirdly believe that the future glory of this temple that is the glory of rebuilt temple will be far superior than the former one. 

Have a positive and intense desire to see this greater glory in your own life 

*What is the condition of your temple of life?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Different people kept trying to see Jesus for different purposes. What about me?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 9:7-9*

*First Reading -  Hg 1:1-8*

*Different people kept trying to see Jesus for different purposes. What about me?*

*1) Herod kept trying to see Jesus - Why?*

The last sentence of today's Gospel says, *And he kept trying to see him*

To understand this sentence we need to see the incidents which happened during that time 

First of Herod was perplexed or disturbed because many people spoke many things about Jesus. So he was in the state of confusion 

Secondly some people were saying that He was John the Baptist. But the problem here is, Herod only had beheaded John. So how could he be alive. If the person is truely John the Baptist then He must have risen again. To accept such a fact would be terrible, because ordinary person can't rise again, but only a divine person can rise. So Herod was disturbed 

Thirdly, since Herod was confused he wanted to clarify the his doubt at the same time he wanted to know who Jesus is. So that he can control Jesus' activities, which was necessary for Herod to strengthen his position and to ecxecise his power 

So finally Herod wanted to see Jesus not for good things but for selfish purpose 

*2) Zacchaeus and Jesus*

Zacchaeus also wanted to see Jesus. 

He wanted to see Jesus not to find out who Jesus is, what is power, whether he will be a threat for his business. Nothing of that sort 

Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus to have a divine experience. 

He wanted to see Jesus so that he could change his life 

He wanted to see Jesus in order to acknowledge his own Sinfulness

*3) Sinful woman at Simons house and Jesus*

When Jesus was at the house of Simon the Pharisee for a dinner a sinful woman came, to see Jesus 

She came to see Jesus inorder to confess her sins and to get a relief from her sinful life 

She came in search of Jesus for Gods mercy and to change her life 

She came in search of Jesus to accept publicly that she is a great sinner and she needs God's mercy

*4) The Rich Young Man and Jesus*

He came in search of Jesus to find out which is the greatest commandment

He came in search of Jesus to find out how to attain eternal life   

He came in search of Jesus to know the best way to salvation

*5) Many sick people, lepers and Jesus* 

They came in search of Jesus to get relief from their sickness 

They came in search of Jesus to get a favour from the Lord

They came in search of Jesus to experience His divine curing power 

*6) Judas and Jesus*

Judas aslo came in search of Jesus to the garden of Gethsemane, to betray Him 

He came in search of Jesus to show who Jesus is to the Roman soldiers

He came in search of Jesus to hand Him over and to get the money from the officials 

*7) Do I  keep trying to see Jesus - Why?*

First of all do I have that desire to find out who Jesus is for me? One of thr Greatest questions of our life. 

If I am searching Jesus  for what? Is it for my personal gain? To achieve my selfish motives? To have divine experience and to deepen my spiritual life? To spread the Kingdom ofGod? To attain eternal life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus, gave them authority and power over all demons and disease

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 9:1-6*

*First Reading -  Ez 9:5-9*

*Jesus, gave them authority and power over all demons and disease*

*1) Jesus gives them responsibility with Power and Authority*

These three things are very much necessary to do any work. *Responsibility, authority and Power*

Only responsibility without power and authority, is useless. Such a person can't do much work and also such persons suffers a lot 

When Jesus gave them the responsibility, He also gave them power and authority. This is the very important factor to observe and to practice in our day today life. 

*2) Power, Authority and Responsibility to do common Good*

The instructions are very clear. They are given responsibility with power and authority to control the evil things and to control the sickness 

The above things are not given to them for their personal gain, personal glory, personal agenda to carry out and to use these things for selfish purpose. 

So God given responsibility with authority and power is to spread the Kingdom of God and make this world a peaceful abode. 

*3) All the disciples are given responsibility with power and authority*

Every follower of Jesus is empowered with responsibility with power and authority to serve the Lord. No one can deny this fact 

The very fact that we are living a life with some responsibility, we have certain powers and authority to carry out the responsibility

The question is how do I use this power and authority in carrying out my responsibility??

*4) I have been given power and authority to destroy all demons and cure the disease*

This mission has to start first of all from my own life. If so what are the diseases and which are the demons I need to pay attention? 

The demon of Anger 

The demon of pride 

The demon of revenge 

The demon of selfishness

The demon of self righteousness 

The demon of greed 

The demon of division 

The demon of wordly things 

The sickness of gossip

The sickness of jealousy

The sickness of sadness 

The sickness of fear 

The sickness of laziness 

The sickness of lack of seriousness

The sickness of excess desire for bodily things 

The sickness of narrow mindedness

Jesus has given power and authority to handle these things first of all in my life, then in my family and in the society at large 

How do I exercise my authority and power in carrying out the responsibility?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Along with the Person of Matthew, Jesus saw many other things in Matthew

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Mt 9:9–13*

*First Reading -  Eph 4:1–7, 11–13*

*Feast of St Matthew the Evangelist*

*Along with the Person of Matthew, Jesus saw many other things in Matthew*

*1) It was Jesus who saw Matthew*

The Gospel very clearly states  that, *As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post*

Here the seeing of Jesus or the gaze of Jesus  towards Matthew is very important

This gaze was not an ordinary gaze, but a gaze with a divine power which changed the life of Matthew 

Jesus not only saw the person of Matthew from external standards, but he saw many other things in him

*2) The various things which Jesus saw in Matthew*

A) Jesus saw a hidden self in Matthew, which was ready to change his life. 

B) Jesus saw a Humble person in Matthew, which enabled him to follow the Master immediately

C) Jesus saw an Evangelist in Matthew, who would later write the Entire life History of Jesus : The Gospel of Matthew 

D) Jesus saw a person in Matthew who would welcome Him, in his house and dine with Him 

E) Jesus saw an opportunity through the life of Matthew to meet the tax collectors and sinners and to eat with them 

F) Jesus saw a faithful person who would sacrifice everything for the sake of the Master.

G) Jesus also saw in Him a great preacher and an apostle in him 

*3) Mere seeing of Jesus is not sufficient*

Seeing should be a two way communication. As Jesus saw Matthew, Matthew also responded to the gaze of Jesus 

He also willingly gave green signal to the divine gaze of Jesus. That was the greatness of Matthew. 

We also have an episode of the Rich Young man, to whom also Jesus saw, but he didn't respond well to the gaze of Jesus. That's why finally he went away sad. So responding to the gaze of Jesus is very important

*4) Jesus sees many things in me too*

We have been given a different mission. Either religious or lay faithful we have been called by the Lord for a specific mission 

Before He called us He has seen us, not only that He has seen many other good things in me

He might have seen a good and caring father or mother in me 

He might have seen a forgiving person in me 

He might have seen a person who is responsible, faithful and hardworking for the family 

He might have seen a person who is humble in nature and ready to serve and sacrifice at any moment 

He might have seen a person who will preach His mission through ones life witnessing and Kingdom values

He might have seen in me a person who is ready to change for the better 

He might have seen in me a person who is generous, caring and loving 

*5) What has happened to these above areas in my Life?*

Jesus saw many things in Matthew and Matthew responded well. Therefore he became an effective instrument in the hands of Jesus 

The same Jesus also has seen many good things in my life. But the question is what was my response? 

Have I responded positively or not? 

Have I ignored the divine gaze of the Lord, like that of Rich  Young man? 

Or have I responded to the divine gaze of Jesus, like that of Matthew.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What happens, when the lamp is covered under bushel basket?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Luke 8:16-18*

*First Reading - Ez 1:1-6*

*What happens, when the lamp is covered under bushel basket?*

*1) Lamp which is kept under the bushel basket*

When the burning lamp is kept under the Bushel Basket the following things will happen

First of all the lamp will not be able to burn, since it needs an open space and air for buring. So the moment the lamp is covered with the bushel basket, it goes off. 

Secondly, a lamp which is kept under the bushel basket, even if it shines for some times, the light will not come out. It fails to shine its light to the needy. 

Thirdly a burning lamp which is covered under the bushel basket, turns the space into black, inside the basket, which makes everything dark. So a lamp which is covered under the bushel basket finally creates only dark and darkness

*2) Lamp can't survive without burning*

Only when a lamp burns, it call it as lamp. A lamp which is not able to burn ceases to exist as lamp 

The identity of the lamp consists in burning and light. If these two things are missing, then there is no lamp at all 

A lamp which is unable to burn is considered to be the waste things which is discarded and disposed 

So a lamp can't exist without burning 

*3) The need of lamp and light*

We can't survive without light. Even the plants need the light and other things 

Since almost 10-12 hours per day is covered with darkness, the need of light and lamp is very much necessary in our lives 

Darkness creates fear, anxiety, confusion, chaos, disorder and utter failure. Where as light fills us with hope, courage, happiness, joy, enthusiasm, and gives us right direction

The above things help us to understand the importance of the Lamp and light 

*4) Burning Candle and the Sacrament of Baptism*

With the sacrament of Baptism we start our faith life. It is the birth of faith life, it is the birth of Christian life 

In the ceremony of Baptism, there is a special reference for the lighted candle, which was lighted from the Paschal candle, Symbol of Risen Christ, and given to the Parents and Godparents

As the lighted candle was given the following words are spoken by the priest *Receive the Light of Christ: Parents and Godparents, this light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly. This child of yours has been enlighted by Christ. He/she is to walk always as a Child of Light. May he/she keep the flame of faith alive in his/her heart. When the Lord comes, may he/she go out to meet him with all saints in the heavenly Kingdom*

So the Question is how is this light?  

*5) Is my lamp of life, under the Bushel?*

Our life is like a lamp. It should burn and dispel the darkness which is around us. 

But the question is, is my lamp of life under the bushel or on the lamp stand? 

When life is lived according to the Kingdom values, it really shines like the lamp on the stand. 

But when the life is lived according to the Wordly standards, the lamp of life goes under the bushel, where it fails to shine, and it goes off. 

*So what is the condition of the lamp 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*

Who is the greatest? Am I want to become great?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Mk 9:30-37*

*First Reading -  Wis 2:12, 17-20*

*SECOND READING - Jas 3:16-4:3*

*Who is the greatest? Am I want to become great?*

*1) The desire to become great*

Every human being has this desire, that he/she wants to become great in one way or the another 

No body regrets for becoming great, instead they feel happy and joyful. In fact everything we do in our life in one way or the another has the intention of becoming great 

There is nothing wrong in becoming great. But how do we become great is a question 

*2) The wordly standards and the Heavenly standards*

There are two ways of becoming great. One from the perspective of the world and the other from the heavenly standards. 

The wordly standards, depends on the power, position, wealth, money, riches, influence, beauty, lots of land etc

But Jesus has different standards to become great in His kingdom 

*3) Jesus way of becoming Great*

There are many things which are highlighted in today's Gospel 

The person who is ready to serve, is the greatest in the Kingdom of God 

The person who is ready to sacrifice his/her life is the greatest in KOG

The person who is ready to face any kinds trials and tribulations for the sake of faith is the greatest in KOG

The person who is ready to trust like Child, is the greatest in KOG

A person who is ready to cultivate the Heart and mind of a Child, which is pure and without any gile, is greatest in the KOG

A person who is ready to suffer for the righteousness's sake is the great in the KOG

A person who is ready to stand for truth, justice, sincerity is the great in the KOG

A person who is ready to accept the wisdom from above which is first of all pure, peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity will be the greatest in the KOG

*4) Do I want to become Great?*

The question is to become great in the KOG? 

Do I have that desire? At the same time mere desire is not sufficient. One needs to work hard, to become great in the KOG

All the saints who became great in the KOG, really went through all the challenges, hardships, and some even sacrificed their life, to become great in the KOG. 

If so do I want to become great in the Kingdom of God?

What are the ways, through which I am working to become great in KOG?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Seed withered because of the Lack of Moisture

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 8:4-15*

*First Reading -  1 Tm 6:13-16*

*The Seed withered because of the Lack of Moisture*

*1) Moisture is a magical thing*

In simple words, moisture means a little water content, which remains after we water a surface ground, which keep the surface, wet, cool and conducive for producing new life 

The moment there is moisture in the mud, automatically it gives a opportunity for the seed to sprout and to grow

Moisture changes the entire situation of the mud and land, and it creates new life 

Because of these things, moisture is a magical thing. 

*2) A good and well trained farmer will never allow the moisture to dry*

Since the life of the sprouted seed depends on the moisture in the ground, a farmer always will see that the moisture of the ground is maintained

The first thing the farmer has to pay attention is to maintain the moisture, for the survival of the plant 

Where there is good moisture, there the plants grow well 

*3) To maintain moisture one has to be vigilant*

A farmer has to be vigilant, to keep up the level of moisture in the mud

A famer who fails to keep up the moisture can't think of cultivating something

To keep the level of the moisture he has to work hard, and work everyday, only then the moisture can be maintained 

*4) The sprouted Seed died because of lack of moisture*

The parable of the sower clearly tells us that some of the sprouted seeds died within no time because of the lack of moisture

This also highlights the importance of the moisture for the plant 

Moisture is almost like oxygen to the plant, the delay in supplying it will be fatal for the plants 

*5) God is the Sower of the seeds in our life*

God who has created us is the owner of our life, who sows different seeds in our life 

Our work consists in maintaning thr moisture of our life

There is no delay in sowing the seeds by the Lord, but the question is what about the condition of the mud of my life. Is it fruitful, is the level of moisture maintained? 

*6) The Moisture in my Life*

We take the ordinary incident of our life situation like that of sowing of the seeds, we can also apply this incident to our spiritual life 

Accordingly we need to maintain the moisture of the following things, to gain fruit. 

The moisture of Love

The moisture of forgiveness

The moisture of generosity

The moisture of service 

The moisture of sacrifice

The moisture of humility

The moisture of sincerity

The moisture of alertness

The moisture of smile 

The moisture of harwork 

The moisture of prayer 

When we maintain the moisture of the above things, automatically the seeds start to sprout

*What about the moisture of good things in my life?*

*Has it still alive or dear?*

*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 compete well, to improve our spiritual things

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 8:1-3*

*First Reading -  1 Tm 6:2c-12*

*We need to compete well, to improve our spiritual things*

*Compete well for the faith*

*1) Competition in our daily life*

The word competition has become very common and relevant to all of us in today's world

The word competition has entered into every sphere of life. There are no areas which are untouched by the word competition

The word competition also tells us that, unless we compete in our day today life, we will not grow. So competition is very essential in our life 

*2) Competition in the 1st Letter of Timothy*

In today's first reading St Paul uses the word, competition for the spiritual things 

As we use the word competition for the secular or wordly things, St Paul uses this word for spiritual and divine things 

So once again we can understand the importance of competition even in the area of Spiritual things 

*3)  To which things we need to Compete?*

In the first reading of today, St Paul gives us a list of spiritual things, to which we need to compete. They are the following 

Righteousness,

Devotion,

Faith,

Love, 

Patience, 

Gentleness.

Eternal life,

St Paul gives us this list of things to which we need to compete in our day today life. Only then we can improve in our lives

*4) We compete not to break others records, but to improve our own records*

The word competition may be misunderstood at times 

Here we do not compete for breaking some ones record, but we compete to improve our own record 

Competing with our own previous records will help us to improve these spiritual and divine qualities, which will ultimately help us to live a holy life 

*5) The Effects of competition* 

We are able to over come from the verbal disputes.

We can also over come from envy, rivalry, insults, evil suspicions, and mutual friction among people with corrupted minds, who are deprived of the truth. 

So there are many good things happen when we compete for  good things 

*6) Competition needs hard work*

Any competition for that matter is not easy. It needs hardwork 

Like wise competition in the area of spiritual things, it needs more hard work 

Only those who are ready to undergo hard work can participate in competition and they are improve their records. 

*7) What about my part in competition*

Do I compete at all in the spiritual areas? 

Am I a competitionless person or with full spirit of competition? 

Is my competition to improve my own quality of records or to compare myself with others? 

In what level the competitions take place  for spiritual things 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 realise that I am great debtor?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 7:36-50*

*First Reading - 1 Tm 4:12-16*

*Do I realise that I am great debtor?*

*1) Two debtors in Today's Gospel*

Debtor is a person, who owes something to another Person

In today's Gospel Jesus presents two debtors. One owes a little amount and the other one owes more amount 

In the process of discussion, the conclusion is that one who owes much to the master, has more responsibility and when the Master gave concession to both, the one who owes more shows more reverence than the other 

This is because of the great amount he owed to the Master 

*2) We are all debtors*

God is the Master and we are all the debtors. 

We have practically received everything from God with paying anything. 

If there is a great debtors, in this universe it must be man, towards God the creator 

All valuable things along with our life, sight, external senses, internal organs and everything is given by God. 

So we are great debtors 

*3) Have I ever realised that I am debtor?*

This is the great fact that I need to realise in my life 

The greatest tragedy of life could be, when I fail to realise that I am debtor and act like a creditor of my own life 

So realising that I am great debtor in front of God is the greatest consciousness that a person can have in His/her life 

*4) The importance of realisation that I am debtor*

When I realise that I am great debtor lots of changes come into our life 

The debtor of the Gospel finally ended up showing more  love to the Master because of the great debt. 

When we realise that we are great debtor, we become more humble, we become more out going, simple, generous, forgiving, service minded, and ready to sacrifice for the sake of the other 

So this realisation is must and we need to try to have this realisation

*5) What is my realisation?*

What is the attitude that I project in my life? 

Creditor, debtor, or great debtor? 

What do you think that what are the things that you owe to God, owe to your fellow brothers and to the society? 

There is nothing mine. Everything is given by some one else - do you agree with this point?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Presence of Mary in the midst of Suffering

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week - Wednesday*

*Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows*

*GOSPEL - John 19:25-27 or Lk 2: 33-35*

*First Reading - Heb 5:7-9*

*The Presence of Mary in the midst of Suffering*

*1) Mary at the Foot of the Cross*

The hanging of Jesus on the Cross, at the last moment, between life and death is the most sorrowful moment of Mary's Life

This was also the most sorrowful moment for Jesus, because within few moments He will be dying on the Cross, which is a kind of separation from His Mother 

In the Crucial moment the presence of Mary makes a lot of difference at the foot of the Cross. 

First of all, because of the Mary's presence we see the presence of other women as well. So Mary becomes the unifying force in the midst of suffering 

Secondly, the presence of Mary, makes the beloved disciple of Jesus to remain at the foot of the Cross, even though all other disciples had gone away from Him 

The presence of Mary at the foot of the Cross, was an opportunity for Jesus to see His mother for the last time before His death. This also helped them to exchange their views for the last time 

The presence of Mary also shows the responsibility towards the Mother, as Jesus hands over it to His beloved disciples. Mary without any difficult, accepts the care and concern of the Beloved disciples. 

*2) Mary's Presence in all 7 sorrows*

Traditionally the seven sorrows are attributed to our Blessed Mother 

1) The Prophecy of Simeon

2) The Flight into Egypt

3) The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem

4) Mary's meeting Jesus on the Way to the Calvary

5) The Crucifixion of Jesus on Mount Calvary

6) Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross.

7) The Burial of Jesus by Joseph of Arimathea

In all these sorrows Mary not only plays a major role, but also makes a difference in all scenes 

*3) Mary's Apparitions*

In the history of the Church, it only Mary who has appeared, number of times, in different places, to different people. In all her appearances she had some message to communicate

If we see the context of the apparitions, it is very clear that, when human kind was suffering Mary appeared to accompany them 

Her appearance and presence has made a lot of difference in the life of the people 

So this another example to show that Mother Mary always protects us in our suffering 

*4) Mother Mary gives a new meaning to suffering*

Along With the suffering of Jesus, Mary's suffering also has a special significance in the History of Salvation

The way she faced all the suffering and her attitude towards suffering gives a new meaning to the suffering 

She never grumbled at suffering, she never ran away from it neither she tried to escape from it. But with faith and hope she faced it. This itself gives a beautiful meaning to the suffering

*5) The Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows*

Among many images of Mary, the image of Sorrowful Mary also considered to be great and it is celebrated in the Church 

The celebration of the feast of the  Sorrows of our Mother gives us an opportunity to reflect about the nature and purpose of suffering and the goal of it 

The presence of this feast and the image of sorrowful Mother makes a difference even in our life, because it fills us With hope and courage to face our suffering. 

*6) What is my outlook towards suffering?*

Do I have a negative attitude towards suffering?

How do I face suffering? 

Do I grumble at God and other when I am faced with troubles and sufferings?

How strong I am in facing the suffering?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Miracle of the Crucifix

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Jn 3:13–17*

*First Reading - Nm 21:4b–9*

*SECOND READING - Phil 2:6–11*

*Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross*

*The Miracle of the Crucifix*

*1) Cross on the Day of crucifixion*

It was on Good Friday that Jesus was crucified. When we see the Cross and Crucifixion on this day, what would have been the thinking about the Cross and Crucifixion?

Most of the people concluded that it was the end of Jesus 

Crucifixion on the Cross was most terrible worst thing that could happen to any person, even to a greatest criminal

Death of Jesus through the crucifixion is the most terrible thing, which could happen to a great person like Jesus 

These were some of the common opinion which were circulating among the people 

*2) Cross after the crucifixion of Jesus*

When Jesus died on the Cross, there were some external signs which took place according to the Gospel of Mathew

*At that moment (When jesus died on the Cross) the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split. and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life.* Mathew 27:51-53

So something special happened at that very moment which never happened before anybody's death on the Cross 

This also gives an indication that the crucifixion of Jesus and the Cross has a special significance to our life 

*3) The Cross down the centuries of church's life*

After the death of Jesus, the Cross has become the focal point of Christian life 

There is no Christian spirituality without the Cross. Our spirituality revolves around the spirituality of the Cross 

In the entire life of the Church, the Cross has become the powerful instrument of communicating God's love and the means to reflect the sacrifice of Jesus

*4) Today the Significance of the Cross*

Today there is no place where there is no cross. 

Any part of the world we may go, there is cross

Today Cross has travelled to the entire world and it is still traveling to the furtherest corners of the world 

Today the Cross is found in small or big mountains, in every holy compus, in temples, pilgrim places, road sides, on the street walls, house doors, in the house altars, in our key chains, in the necks of every believer and in the things which are used by the believes 

So it is really a miracle that cross is found every where, and it is being hailed as the instrument of salvation

On the day of crucifixion no body might have thought that the Cross would become such a powerful instrument after the death of Jesus 

So this is really a miracle of the Cross 

*5) Cross in our life*

Today we are happy to follow the Cross. It gives us hope, courage and strength 

It is instrument of blessing and the channel of Gods grace to the entire humanity 

There is no other instrument other than the Cross to explain the Love of God, towards the Humanity. 

Today Cross is my life and my breath. Without which I can't live my Christian life 

*How do I accept cross 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*

Good Works makes a person to deserve something from the Lord

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 7:1-10*

*First Reading - 1 Tm 2:1-8*

*Good Works makes a person to deserve something from the Lord*

*“He deserves to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation and he built the synagogue for us.”*

*1) The Centurion deserved something from the Lord*

In today's Gospel, according the Jews who were sent by the centurion, to Jesus, feel that the Centurion deserved some favour from the Lord 

The Gospel also gives the reasons why he deserved some favours from the Lord. 

A) First of all He was a man of *integrity*. Because he respected every one, without any discrimination

B) Even though he was not a Jew, he *built a synagogue* for the Jews, to pray. This also shows his respect towards other religion and their belief systems 

C) Thirdly, He had only heard about Jesus. He had not seen Jesus, yet he had *strong belief* in the person of Jesus and about his miraculous power 

D) He was a man with *human values*. Because he considered his slave as a human being and not as a slave. He was ready to go out of the way to help his servant. So he had great value for human lif

D) The virtue of *Humility* He was a man with power and position. He had the power to command something from another person. But he never used his power or position in healing his servant. It was only humility that we see in centurion, while he approaches Jesus 

E) Man of deep *faith* : Jesus Himself says that *I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.*

This shows the depth of his faith. Because of these good deeds, he deserved some favour from the Lord

*2) Jesus was ready to do the favour, without any questions*

When Jews came and told about the centurion and about his slave, Jesus was ready to go and do the favour 

Not only He was ready but immediately he started, to proceed to the place where the slave was suffering 

Jesus didn't ask any further questions. So it is also understood that, those who do lot of Good Work they deserve a favour from the Lord 

*3) Centurion never claimed, But it was people who claimed for it*

This is another important point to note. 

Even though the centurion had done lots of good work, he never clsmied any favour for that 

Neither he said his good works to Jesus in order to get the favour

He never felt that he deserves a favour from the Lord for the good work 

This attitude of the centurion is very important. Other wise we may claim favour for every other little work 

 *4) What are the Good works in my life, which others say that I deserve a favour from the Lord?*

This is one of the important questions, which we need to reflect very often 

When we think about this question, we will be able to evaluate our own life and to see what are the good works we have in our life 

When others say, usually they speak good, only if we do good. Other wise they don't speak about that 

It is better that we list out all our good deeds to check our own life and to correct it, if it is not on the right path 

*So finally the Question is what are the Good works 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*

Who is Jesus for me?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Mk 8:27-35*

*First Reading - Is 50:5-9a*

*SECOND READING - Jas 2:14-18*

*Who is Jesus for me?*

*1) Jesus asks two important questions*

In todays Gospel we find two important questions. 

*"Who do people say that I am?”*

*“But who do you say that I am?”*

Both these questions belong to different relms and answers to these questions also differs from one question to  another question

*2) The uniqueness of the Answers*

It is rather easy to  answer the first question. This is because, we have to say the experience of other people, which we can get it easily 

To answer the second question we need to have personal experience

Since the question is addressed to the individual persons or to the disciples, they can't say, what others say about Jesus. They have to answer this question from their individual experience

So in this sense, both these questions have diffent answers. 

*3) Personal experience hidden in second question*

To answer the second question one needs to have a deep personal experience

Unless one has the personal experience one can't answer this question 

So the second question challenges us to check whether we can answer this question in our lives, based on personal, individual experience

*4) The various ways of getting personal experience*

There are many ways through which we can experience our Lord Jesus in our life 

Prayer life, 

Service to the down trodden

Showing Compassion & Mercy 

Love and Forgiveness 

Sharing and generosity

Sacramental life 

So these are the various ways through which we can have personal experience of Jesus 

*5) The purpose of our life is to have personal experience of Jesus*

The main mission of our life is to know Jesus, which can be achieved only by having a personal encounter with the Lord. 

A Christian who fails to experience Jesus, in a personal way or in a individual level our life becomes worthless

Christian spirituality highly depends on the personal or the individual experience of Jesus. 

*6) Jesus asks this question to me today*

*But who do you say that I am?”*

What is my answer to the Lord 

Mother Teresa answered this question serving the poor. For her Jesus was the one suffers in the sick people, who are left by everyone

Graham Stain saw Jesus in lepers and he served those people. It was possible only because he experienced the presence of Jesus in those people 

For Fredick Ozanam, Jesus means showing humanity and serving the poor 

So reflecting the above examples, once again we ask the same question,    *“But who do you say that I am?"*

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*

What is the Foundation of my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 23rd Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 6:43-49*

*First Reading - 1 Tm 1:15-17*

*What is the Foundation of my Life?*

*1) Jesus Speaks about the Foundation*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the foundation and the building of the House 

As we understand, a good house depends on the strong foundation, it shows the importance of the Foundation

A house or any construction, which is bulit on the weak or no foundation, collapses with in no time 

So Foundation is very much necessary

*2) Life also needs a foundation*

Like any other building, life also needs a foundation for its survival. 

Since life is similar to the building, it needs a foundation. 

If so we need to reflect strong about the foundation of my life

*3) The following things could be various aspects of the foundation of our life*

*A) Family*: I feel among all other aspects, family becomes very important and most fundamental aspect of the foundation of our life. 

Since life begins from the family, this foundation is very important

So the question is, how my family is? Should be reflected well. If family relationship is very strong, then life stands on strong foundation

*B) Prayer Life*

Another important aspect of the Foundation of our life. 

A life which depends on the prayer, can stand against any trials, problems and challenges of life 

The question is, how strong this foundation is in my life?

*C) Please, Forgive, Thank You*

Pope Francis says that these three words are the *magic words* in life

Those who use these words extensively, life becomes very meaningful and peaceful

How strong these words are in my life? Have I made them weak by not using them or are they Strong?

*D) Generosity, Service  & Humility*

Once again these are the main aspects of Jesus' ministry.

His ministry was effective, because of these above things. 

When we use these words in our life, the foundation of our life becomes very strong 

*E) Love, & Sacrifice*

These were the imporatant aspects of the  foundation of Jesus' life. 

Am I ready to practice these virtues as the foundation of my life? 

*4) To lay foundation is very challenging task*

Among all works it is more challenging and difficult work 

This is because, it needs lots of panning, it needs lot of depth, it needs more attention and energy

If the foundation is right and Strong, then everything becomes successful. 

If the foundation is very faulty and weak, whatever we do later, it becomes useless

*5) How is the Foundation of my life?*

Is it weak or Strong?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What is the Foundation of my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 23rd Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 6:43-49*

*First Reading - 1 Tm 1:15-17*

*What is the Foundation of my Life?*

*1) Jesus Speaks about the Foundation*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the foundation and the building of the House 

As we understand, a good house depends on the strong foundation, it shows the importance of the Foundation

A house or any construction, which is bulit on the weak or no foundation, collapses with in no time 

So Foundation is very much necessary

*2) Life also needs a foundation*

Like any other building, life also needs a foundation for its survival. 

Since life is similar to the building, it needs a foundation. 

If so we need to reflect strong about the foundation of my life

*3) The following things could be various aspects of the foundation of our life*

*A) Family*: I feel among all other aspects, family becomes very important and most fundamental aspect of the foundation of our life. 

Since life begins from the family, this foundation is very important

So the question is, how my family is? Should be reflected well. If family relationship is very strong, then life stands on strong foundation

*B) Prayer Life*

Another important aspect of the Foundation of our life. 

A life which depends on the prayer, can stand against any trials, problems and challenges of life 

The question is, how strong this foundation is in my life?

*C) Please, Forgive, Thank You*

Pope Francis says that these three words are the *magic words* in life

Those who use these words extensively, life becomes very meaningful and peaceful

How strong these words are in my life? Have I made them weak by not using them or are they Strong?

*D) Generosity, Service  & Humility*

Once again these are the main aspects of Jesus' ministry.

His ministry was effective, because of these above things. 

When we use these words in our life, the foundation of our life becomes very strong 

*E) Love, & Sacrifice*

These were the imporatant aspects of the  foundation of Jesus' life. 

Am I ready to practice these virtues as the foundation of my life? 

*4) To lay foundation is very challenging task*

Among all works it is more challenging and difficult work 

This is because, it needs lots of panning, it needs lot of depth, it needs more attention and energy

If the foundation is right and Strong, then everything becomes successful. 

If the foundation is very faulty and weak, whatever we do later, it becomes useless

*5) How is the Foundation of my life?*

Is it weak or Strong?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do I allow myself to be trained to become like Master

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 23rd Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 6:39-42*

*First Reading - 1 Tm 1:1-2, 12-14*

*Do I allow myself to be trained to become like Master*

*1) Every Christian desires to become like teacher*

The very fact that we follow Jesus our Master, it also means that, we would like to become like Master. 

This is a normal desire and it is a positive desire, to which one should work, to reach the goal 

Let's ask one question : How deep and intense is my desire to become like Master??

*2) Training is necessary*

In order to become like Master, mere desire is not sufficient. But one should be ready to under go the training in that direction 

For every good thing that we learn in our life, involves training. If this is our normal experience, we need to realise the gravity of the training, to become like Master 

Without training one can't become like Master. So this position tells us the gravity of the training. 

*3) Various ways of Training ourselves*

When it comes to the training, to become like Master, we have ample ways, which are highlighted in the Gospel 

First of all, all the Gospel values are the wonderful ways, through which we can train ourselves to become like Master 

So practice of the Kingdom values are the best ways of training oneself in becoming like Master 

*4) Repent and believe in the Good news*

This one of the best and first ways, which Jesus gave us, in training ourselves to become like Master. 

In fact Jesus starts His mission with these words. So we need to  understand the importance of this way, in becoming like Master. 

With this Foundation *Repent and believe in Good News* any type of training we can undergo, and we can become like Master.

*5) Training is always challenging*

Any training for that matter is very challenging. When it comes to undergo the training to become like Our Master Jesus Christ, its not very easy 

This training is one of the hardest and most challenging training, because it touches our mind,  heart, and Soul, which ultimately changes the whole person. That is why it is most challenging training 

*6) Gospel based ways of Training oneself*

The way of forgiveness

The way of Humility

The way of sacrifice

The way of love 

The way of generosity

The way of self denial 

The way of Hope and faith

The way of suffering 

The way of equality 

The way of prayer 

The way of service 

The way of self confidence

The way of conscience

To practice these ways one needs rigours training. Only then one can practice these things. But once a person undergoes training for these things and tries his/her best to practice it, definitely it leads a person to become like Master 

*If so am I ready to allow myself, to be trained by the values of the Master to become like Master?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What would be my reaction if some one takes my cloak/Tunic

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 23rd Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 6:27-38*

*First Reading - Col 3:12-17*

*What would be my reaction if some one takes my cloak/Tunic*

*1) Not to react to the person who takes away the cloak*

Cloak is a sleeveless outdoor overgarment that hangs loosely from the shoulders.

If some one takes the cloak, Jesus says, not to react to the person and allow the person, to take the cloak 

*2) To give the Tunic as well*

A tunic is a loose garment, typically sleeveless and reaching to the knees, as worn in ancient Greece and Rome.

In other words it is a close-fitting short coat as part of a uniform, especially a police or military uniform.

Jesus says *do not withhold even your tunic* The moment we withhold the things, we refuse to give the tunic.

*3) The need of the Tunic and cloak*

There is a difference between need and greed

When it comes for greed one can survive without the things to which one is greedy for 

When it comes for need, it is understood as something without which one can't survive 

So the cloak and tunic belong to the group of needs and not to the group of greed

*4) How to understand the readiness to give the cloak and tunic*

When Jesus says that *From the person who takes your cloak, do not withhold even your tunic*, it is not necessary to understand it in a literal sense

We should understand it in a more deeper way, or we need to read the meaning of it, in a different way.

There is a deeper meaning in this sentence.

*5) Deeper meaning of the cloak and Tunic*

If the person is ready to give even the most needed things, it shows the level of commitment of the person 

It also shows the total detachment of the person 

If the person is ready to give his/her tunic and cloak, such a person is not attached to anything else 

It is the sign of total detachment 

*6) Total detachment is necessary to follow Jesus*

Such a commitment and total detachment is very much needed and necessary for the follower of a Christ

One who refuses to give the cloak and withholds the tunic is not worthy of becoming disciples to Jesus 

*7)What are the cloaks and tunics which I find it difficult to give up*

There are many things, which take the place of cloaks and tunics in our lives.

Some times our own ego, status, position, power, wealth, and other material things

Some times our pride, anger, revengeful attitude, selfishness, narrow mindedness etc., take the place of tunics, and cloak

Am I finding difficult to detach myself from the above things?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

With the Birth of Mary, God is with Us

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 23rd Week - Wednesday*

*ಭಾಗಿ ಮೊಂತಿ ಫೆಸ್ತ್*

*Happy Feast of Nativity of BVM*

*GOSPEL - Mt 1:1-16, 18-23 or Mt 1:18-23*

*First Reading - Mic 5:1-4a*

*Or*

*Rom 8:28-30*

*With the Birth of Mary, God is with Us*

*1) The Phrase : God is with us*

Even though today we are celebrating the Feast of the birth of Mary, we have the goodnews of Jesus' Birth.

In other words the Birth of Mary has direct connection with the Birth of Jesus 

The Phrase *God is with us* gets special meaning with the birth of Mary. 

We can very well read into the life of Mary the phrase *God is with us*

*2) Mary Was born with out sin - means God is with Us*

Wherever there is no sin, there is God. So we see that there is no sting of sin in the life of Mary, which means, God is with us 

The immaculate conception of Mary is another example to show the purity of her life, which once again highlights the phrase *God is with Us*

*3) Yes, I am the handmaid of the Lord, it means God is with us*

When Mary said, yes, immediately, the word of God entered in her womb, and God dwlet in her womb, which is nothing but *God is with us*

The conception through the Holy Spirit is once again the proof for the fact that *God is with us*

*4) Through out her life, Jesus was with Mary - God is with us*

From the moment of conception till the moment of His death, Jesus was with Mary 

In fact the birth of Mary was specially designed for the birth of Jesus. So there is always a reference to Jesus birth, in the birth of Mary 

So the concept God is with us, becomes very meaningful to the birth and life of Mary 

*5) Today in the Church the person of Mary means, God is with us*

The church has given maximum importance to our Blessed mother, because of her role in the salvation History

Being with Mary could be equated with the phrase *God is with us*

Every apparition of Mary has only one message *God is with us, but the question are we with God?* is powerfully seen 

The Role of Mary in the church somehow reflects the phrase *God is with us* Either she warns about it or she brings us close to the realisation that God is really with us 

*6) With Mary am I able to realise the importance of the phrase God is with us?*

Mary gets importance because of this phrase 

When I am with Mary this phrase should enlighten my mind and heart 

This phrase was responsible for the immaculate conception and the entire holy life of Mary 

This phrase became the foundation for Mary's life 

If so what is the foundation for my life?

With the birth of Mary, how do I understand the phrase *God is with us?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Need of coming Down and staying on a level Ground

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 23rd Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 6:12-19*

*First Reading - Col 2:6-15*

*Need of coming Down and staying on a level Ground*

*1) Jesus came down and stood on a level ground*

The Gospel of the day has a beautiful, narration about Jesus' coming down from the mountain and standing on the level ground

This event we can see from the ordinary, physical moment of Jesus, that is Jesus' moving from one place to the another 

But we can also see this event from the theological and spiritual point of view 

*2) Coming down and Staying on the level ground - Theological perspective*

In fact the mystery of *Incarnation* is nothing but coming down and staying on a level ground

Jesus practically came down from heaven and stood on a level ground - this earth 

Jesus practically came down from His divinity and stood on a level ground of human nature 

Jesus practically came down from His heavenly glory and stood on the level ground of earthly creatureliness

So coming down and staying on a level ground is at the centre of Christ's mystery 

*3) Need of Level Ground*

The gospel tell us that when He stood on the level ground, He could meet thousands of people 

Many people came to hear His words and to be cured of their diseases, which was possible because of the Level ground 

If there wasn't level ground, it would have been impossible to meet so many people and to cure them 

Only on the level ground meeting was possible

*4) Human Nature was a level ground for Jesus to meet Human Beings*

As we know that Jesus came down from His divine nature, and stood among us through the Human nature 

For Jesus Human nature was the level ground through which He could meet millions of people 

Even today through His human nature Jesus is able to meet and influence, Millon's of people 

That is the power of coming down and staying on a level ground and working 

*5) Other Level Grounds to which we need to often come down*

The life of Jesus shows us the various level grounds on which we need to stand inoder to listen and teach His words 

The Level ground of forgiveness

The level ground of generosity

The level ground of love 

The level ground of sacrifice

The level ground of humility

The level ground of sincerity

The level ground of service 

The level ground of equality 

The level ground of faith and trust 

The level ground of reconciliation

The level ground of Conversion 

All the level grounds will help us to have a peaceful dialogue, which will help us to change our life 

*6) Coming down and staying on the level Ground is a continuous process*

This process has no end. It is continuous and it needs lots of courage and confidence

The more we practice this, approach, the more genuine we become and we can become genuine disciples of Jesus 

Unless we stand on the level ground, we can't get into contact with the another or with the divine

Bilbe, Eucharist, Reconciliation, all the sacraments and all the commandments are the various divine level grounds which are given by God Himself for our benefit. 

The question is *Am I ready to come down from my ego, narrow mindedness, pride, arrogance, gossip and other evil habits, and to stand on the level Ground??* 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*