Jesus thought about people, disciples thought about themselves

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  1st Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 15:29-37*

*First Reading - Is 25:6-10a*

*Jesus thought about people, disciples thought about themselves*

*1) Jesus' concern for people*

In today's Gospel, we come across the concern of Jesus for his people. The following expressions of Jesus show us how much He was concerned about the people 

Jesus' heart was moved with pity, by seeing the crowd

Jesus felt so much, because the people had nothing to eat for three days 

Jesus didn't want people to go hungry. 

Jesus was worried that the people may collapse on the way, because of not eating anything 

All the above things show us the concern of Jesus, towards his people 

*2) Disciples were concerned about themselves*

The disciples hardly thought about the people 

They were thinking about the impossibility of helping the people 

The following expressions of the disciples show us the impossibility of the disciples to help the people 

This is a deserted place 

Where could we get the enough bread for these people 

How to satisfy these people?

These are the things, which show the disciples mentality of impossibility in helping them 

*3) Jesus speaks of giving something, disciples speaks about impossibility of giving enough food for them*

There is a lot of difference between giving something and giving enough to them 

When the disciples were thinking about *giving enough* there comes the problem of impossibility of the quantity

When Jesus thinks of giving something, the problem of quantity does not arise 

That is the difference between Jesus and His disciples. 

*4) What about my concern?*

As  faithful disciples what is my concern? 

Is my concern for the self or for others? 

Is my concern helping them in some possible ways or impossibility of giving them enough? 

Do I consider giving them is waste or without any benefit? 

How do I see the whole situation when it comes to help someone??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Andrew left the Fishing net in order to follow Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  1st Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 4:18-22*

*First Reading - Rom 10:9-18*

*Feast of St Andrew the Apostle*

*Andrew left the Fishing net  in order to follow Jesus*

*1) Andrew was busy with his fishing net*

When Jesus saw Andrew at the sea of Galilee, he was casting the net. For he was a fishermen and was engaged in his work. 

In fact fishing net was everything for Him. In order words, it was an instrument for him to earn his livelihood. 

So there is a close relationship between Andrew and the net which he was using for fishing 

*2) Andrew leaves the Net which was so essential for him so far*

When Jesus called him, the Gospel says, he left the net and followed Jesus 

He was ready to leave the net and follow Jesus. This shows his readiness to follow Jesus leaving everything

*3) Fishing and fishing net was His talent and His expertise*

When we look at the life of Andrew we can conclude that he was a good fishermen

One could conclude that he had a good talent for fishing. So that was his asset

Another important talent could the use of the net, and the techniques of using it. One could conclude that he was expert in it 

*4) When Jesus calls, so called our expertise does not count*

In no way Andrew will be able to use his talent of fishing and use if the techniques of using the net will be used in building the kingdom of God. 

So Jesus didn't call him because he was good in fishing, because he was expert in the use of the net etc. 

Jesus simply calls him to follow Him, and he follows Jesus leaving the fishing net 

*5) The surrendering of the Fishing net*

This has a deeper meaning 

It symbolises a new beginning in the life of Andrew 

It symbolises his readiness to sacrifice everything for the sake of Jesus 

It symbolises his willingness to adopt a new way of life 

It symbolises his willingness to sacrifice the wordly things 

It symbolises his willingness to adapt the way of Jesus in his life 

It symbolises a complete *U Turn* in his life 

*6) Fishing net and My Life*

It also has a deeper significance to my life 

*Net basically used to catch something, to get something and trap something*

The following things may take the place of fishing net in my life

The net of Pride 

The net of selfishness

The net of personal gain 

The net of desire for power 

The net of desire for authority, money, wealth, name, property, beauty, etc 

The net o gossip

The net of revenge

The net of anger 

*7) Wordly standards don't match to the heavenly standards*

Net was a wordly things in the hands of Andrew. But it was not necessary when he followed Jesus 

When he followed Jesus, Jesus give him different types of nets, which he could use for the building of the Kingdom of God

The Heavenly net of forgiveness, love, sacrifice, service, sharing etc 

So with  the Wordly things one can't build the Kingdom of God. It needs diffent levels of nets. 

*Am I ready to give up my net to follow Jesus?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Advent is a time to check, what aspect of my Life has been paralysed?

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  1st Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 8:5-11*

*First Reading - Is 4:2-6*

*Advent is a time to check, what aspect of my Life has been paralysed?*

*1) The Centurions appeal for the Paralysed Servent*

In the Gospel of the day, we have a centurion, who comes to Jesus to plead for the servents wellbeing

The Servent of the centurion, had been paralysed and was suffering terribly from this situation

So the centurion comes to Jesus and asks His help in curing his Servent

*2) Suffering due to Paralysis*

When a person is paralysed, a certain part of the body becomes inactive and as a result the person is not able to function properly

The inability which is created by the paralysis becomes so severe, because with out the help of the other the person is unable to do anything 

In a way the paralysed person has to depend in the other for every little aspect. He/she becomes completely dependent on some one else, which makes the life of the person miserable. 

*3) The Spiritual paralysis in my Life*

As we know the gravity of the physical paralysis, it also applies to the area of spiritual life 

So it is very important to analyze what aspect of my spiritual life is paralysed, so that we can know our real situation 

*4) Various aspects of the Spiritual paralysis in my life*

The paralysis of goodwill 

The paralysis of prayer 

The paralysis of reading of the scriptures 

The paralysis of sharing 

The paralysis of forgiveness

The paralysis of humility

The paralysis of sacrifice

The paralysis of hardwork and commitment

The paralysis of genuine love 

The paralysis of service 

The paralysis of trust and hope 

The paralysis of discipline

The paralysis of spiritual life 

So these are the various paralysis of our spiritual life, which can make us ineffective and useless 

*5) Solution for the Spiritual paralysis*

As the centurion came to Jesus pleading for his servents good health, we have a divine master who can heal our spiritual paralysis

Like that of a centurion, we need to go to Jesus and plead with Him to help us in overcoming the spiritual paralysis

As Jesus replied to the Centurion *I will come and Cure him* Jesus also says us that I will come and cure all types of the paralysis. 

Our duty is to go to Jesus and to plead for His mercy 

*6) Advent is a time to prepare for His coming*

Since Jesus says *I will come and Cure You* we need to prepare ourselves for His coming 

So advent is a time to prepare ourselves to receive Jesus who is coming to cure our Spiritual paralysis. 

So let us use this season of Advent to prepare ourselves to receive Jesus who is coming to cure our spiritual paralysis. 

*What is my response? Am I ready to prepare myself to receive Jesus who is coming to cure our spiritual paralysis?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Coming of Jesus and My Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle :  1st Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 21:25-28, 34-36*

*First Reading - Jer 33:14-16*

*SECOND READING 1 Thes 3:12-4:2*

*Coming of Jesus and My Life*

*1) Season of Advent*

Today we begin the new liturgical year. With Advent, we enter into a new Liturgical Year 

*Advent* means *arrival* or *Coming* Here it is referred to the coming of Jesus 

So with Advent we prepare ourselves to receive Jesus in our life.

*2) Coming of Jesus in Different times*

It is commonly understood that there are three times the coming of  Jesus happens. 

*Historical Coming*

This coming of Jesus has happened 2021 years ago. When Jesus was born at Bethlehem, the Historical Jesus happened. 

*Coming of Jesus in our life daily*

This coming of Jesus happens through our spiritual activities. 

When we receive the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, Jesus comes into our life 

Also when we receive the other sacraments, during prayer and when we spend time with the Lord

*Final Coming of Jesus*

This will happen at the end of our life. Jesus will  personally visit us and take us to our final destiny. 

*3) Two reactions at the coming of Jesus*

One group of people will be terribly frightened because of their unpreparedness. 

As a result they will not be able to face the coming of Jesus

The second group of people will stand stright, holding their heads high. 

These are the people who have prepared themselves to meet the Lord. 

*4) Beware of Your hearts*

In preparing ourselves to meet Jesus, we need to take are of the heart. 

Since the heart is the centre of all emotions which ultimately motivates to act, one must be careful about what is going on in ones heart 

If the heart is pure, then the person remains pure and holy. That's why the Gospel asks us to be aware of our hearts 

*5) The importance of the new Shoot*

New shoot is a new beginning. 

Advent is a season where God comes precisely, to raise from our life a new shoot 

The sign of new shoot is the evidence of new life, new beginning, new vigour, new thinking, new way of life and a different variety. 

God is at work in raising the new shoot in and through my life. If so what is my response? 

Am I ready to cooperate to bring see the new shoot in my life 

*6) New Shoot in advent*

The advent season demands us to have the following shoots in our lives 

The shoot of conversion

The shoot of new way of life 

The shoot of preparedness

The shoot of service 

The shoot of forgiveness

The shoot of courage

The shoot of discipline

The shoot of humility

The shoot of joyfulness

The shoot of sacrifice

The shoot simplicity

The shoot sincerity

What is my thinking and outlook about 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*

The need of Being vigilant at all times

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 34th Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 21:34-36*

*First Reading - Dn 7:15-27*

*The need of Being vigilant at all times*

*1) Be vigilant at all times*

Vigilant meaning keeping a close watch about the possible dangers that would come into ones life 

Jesus says, we need to be careful at all times and not only some times. Being careful at all times will help a person to remain careful about the dangers 

One who is vigilant or careful will certainly able to face any trials and tribulations. 

*2) Why we have to be vigilant?*

In today's Gospel Jesus gives us a series of reasons about why we have to be vigilant at all times

*A) That our hearts may not become drowsy*

Anything that is drowsy or anyone who is drowsy can't function properly

If the heart becomes drowsy, it may be dangerous for the person to live 

Even at the spiritual level, those whose heart have become drowsy, can't experience God. 

*B) That we may be safe from the most three evils*

The evil of carousing (the activity of drinking alcohol and enjoying oneself with others in a noisy, lively way.)

The evil of drunkenness

The evil of anxieties of daily life

*C) That we may not be assaulted on that Day*

If we are vigilant, then we can save ourselves from the assault. 

Assault is nothing but the physical attack from the others. 

*D) That we may be able to escape the tribulations*

Being vigilant will help us to escape the various tribulations, which will come on our way

Since there will be many challenges and tribulations, as we proceed to witness the Lord, being vigilant will help us to avoid these tribulations. 

*E) That we may be able to stand straight before the Son of God*

Standing straight means with courage, with purity of heart and mind and with Holiness 

Standing straight shows the uprightness of the person and the genuineness of the person 

Standing stright is also the symbol of victory and achievement

Standing straight is the goal of every Christian which leads us to final liberation

So being vigilant will help us to stand straight before the Son of God. 

*3) Am I vigilant in my Life?*

As we look at our own life, am I able to say that I am vigilant at all times 

We are vigilant about the material things and many other things and we spend maximum time for the same

What about my vigilance about the spiritual things? 

Am I careful or vigilant about my spiritual life?

What are the concrete steps I take to remain vigilant to safeguard the importance of the spiritual things in my life? 

*Think about it*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Fig Tree in the Summer season and my Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 34th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 21:29-33*

*First Reading - Dn 7:2-14*

*Fig Tree in the Summer season and my Life*

*1) Symbolic Meaning of Summer Season*

Nature’s summer is a season of growth and production in the plant life cycle. 

Flowers and fruits bring fragrance, beauty, and delicious sweetness.

It is a time of warmth, extended light, slowing down, taking a break from our usual schedules, and refreshment in our everyday lives. 

We can enjoy the outdoors more comfortably without much difficulties. 

*2) New Life in Summer Season*

As we read in the Gospel, when the summer is near, the buds of the fig tree burst open and there comes the new life 

As the summer grows the life becomes powerful and the entire nature becomes beautiful and it attracts everyone 

So the summer season becomes a symbol of new life, new beginning, new way of thinking, new venture etc. 

*3) Summer Season in our Spiritual Life*

We are almost in the last days of the liturgical year. Sunday we begin the season of Advent. 

This season of Advent should become a season of Summer in our Spiritual life 

It means the season of Advent, a season of having new buds in our spiritual life 

 Like that of fig tree, all of us should bring new buds in our Spiritual life

So that these buds may grow and fill with full life, in order to produce much fruit. 

*4) The various buds we should allow to burst open in our life*

The buds of forgiveness

The buds of love 

The buds of service 

The buds of sharing 

The buds of sacrifice

The buds of humility

The buds of sincerity

The buds of peace 

The buds of smile 

The buds of hard work 

The buds of commitment

The buds of discipline 

The buds of prayer 

The buds of knowledge

The buds of helping someone

The buds of open mindedness

The buds of mutual respect

*5) How is the Fig tree of my life!*

There is no doubt that the summer is near. In this context how is the fig tree of my life?

Is it ready to burst open its buds? 

Is it showing any signs of new spiritlal  life, new vigour for commitment, new way of life for service, new fruits of humility, new fragrance of love and forgiveness? 

Has it lost its life because of the Winter season? 

Is the fig tree of my life is looking ahead with hope or despair??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

When the Jerusalem is surrounded by the enemies, either we have to escape from it or should not enter into it

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 34th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 21:20-28*

*First Reading - Dn 6:12-28*

*When the Jerusalem is surrounded by the enemies, either we have to escape from it or should not enter into it*

*1) Jerusalem - Surrounded by the Enemies*

The Gospel presents to us the situation, where Jerusalem was surrounded by the enemies 

So it is almost clear that the enemies will destroy it. So the Gospel gives us the following options 

One can flee from the place to a secure place 

Those who are within Jerusalem must escape from it 

Those who are outside, should not make an attempt to enter into it. 

*2) Our Life is equal to Jerusalem*

First of all Jerusalem was God's city and God dwelt in the temple of Jerusalem

Such a mighty temple was surrounded by various enemies for its destruction

Our life is like Jerusalem, where God dwells within us, and guides and protects us 

Like Jerusalem, our life also subject surround by various enemies 

The most common enemies would be, pride, arrogance, anger, revenge, gossip, lack of sharing and lack of  generosity, insincerity etc 

When these enemies surround our life, either we have to run, escape, flee from it, and not to enter into it.

*3) Am I giving the right response to the enemies?*

As it is explained in the Gospel, about the enemies, what is my response to these enemies? 

Do I flee from the enemies or try to entertain it? 

How do I deal with these issues?

*4) Jesus speaks about the enemies and not about the problems*

The Gospel is very clear, which speak about the enemies and not about the problems. 

At times, problems and  enemies are seen as one and the same. This may create some problems. 

Jesus says to flee from the enemies and not from the problems. 

*How do I manage with my enemies - the enemy of Sin?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Z+ Security of Jesus to His disciples

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 34th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 21:12-19*

*First Reading - Dn 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28*

*The Z+ Security of Jesus to His disciples*

*1) What is Z+ security?*

In India security, category is divided into six tiers: SPG, Z+ (highest level), Z, Y+, Y and X.

Z+ category is a security detail of 55 personnel, including 10+ NSG commandos and police personnel.

Z category is a security detail of 22 personnel, including 4-6 NSG commandos and police personnel.

Y category is a security detail of 8 personnel, including 1 or 2 commandos and police personnel. 

X category is a security detail of 2 personnel, with no commandos but only armed police personnel

*2) Z+ is Highest Security*

Since it is highest security, hardly there will be any casualties

Even if there are casualties, it will provide maximum security to the life of the person, and no harm will happen to the person 

The main purpose of this security is to save the life of the person from any danger 

*3) Z+ Security of Jesus*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the persecution on the one side and the security on the other side 

All those who proclaim the name of Jesus and the mission of Jesus will be subjected to persecution. 

Persecution is the integral part of Jesus' mission. One can't avoid such a challenge in life, if one wants to follow Jesus 

But at the same time Jesus also promises the highest level of security, which will save the lives of His followers at any moment and at any situations

*4) The Speciality of Jesus' Z+ Security*

Jesus Z+ security is so strong and secure that will not allow a single hair of His follower to be destroyed by the enemies

That security will help us to persevere in our commitment to the Lord 

That all the adversaries will be powerless to resist and refute 

That will give us special wisdom while speaking for the Lord 

That will give us the power to bare witness to the Lord 

Since the Z+ security of Jesus is so strong, one need not prepare anything for the defense, before the persecutors. 

This is the speciality of the Z+ security of Jesus*

*5) The various Personel of Z+ Security of Jesus*

The Holy Spirit

The Holy Bible

The sacraments

he Archangels, Michael Gabriel, Raphael

The Guardian Angels and other angels of the Lord 

All the Saints, and Holy people 

The Z+ Security provided by Jesus through these personel is so strong, no power on earth can defeat this security

*6) Do I believe in the Z+ security of Jesus to my Life?*

This is a serious question to reflect upon 

If I believe then I don't afraid to any persecutions and challenges. 

Those who fear to face the challenges, because of Jesus' name, may be not fully convinced of the Z+ security of Jesus. 

How about my reaction to the Z+ security of Jesus? 

Does it help me to involve myself totally to the mission of the Lord??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

If the Temple adorned with Costly Stones and votive offerings had its challenges, the Temple of the Holy Spirit (Body) has its own Challenges

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season 34th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 21:5-11*

*First Reading - Dn 2:31-45*

*If the Temple adorned with Costly Stones and votive offerings had its challenges, the Temple of the Holy Spirit (Body) has its own Challenges*

*1) The Jerusalem Temple*

This temple was the identity for every Jew. 

Every Jew believed that God of Israel lived in this temple 

It was an important place and figure for every Jew. 

Anything to anyone could happen but not to the Temple. 

They could think of the destruction of anything but not of the Temple. 

Such a temple took so many years to build with costly stones and with other things

It was the sign that God lived among them and there can be no end to it. 

*2) The Challenges and destruction of the Temple*

Such an important temple with costly stones and votive offerings could face in the near future its own challenges. 

As Jesus prophesied, the temple had its challenges and finally it was destroyed by the Romans in the Year 70AD. 

Something which they thought to be eternal, could not stand. 

*3) The Temple of the Holy Spirit*

St Paul says that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Such a temple should be adorned with costly stones. 

The costly stones of the temple of the Holy Spirit could be 

Forgiveness

Humility

Love 

Sacrifice

Sharing 

Generosity

Sincerity

Service 

Helping hand 

Justice, and Truth

These are the costly stones of the temple of the Holy Spirit, and one should beautify the Temple of the Holy Spirit with these costly stones 

*4) The Temple with costly Stones and the Challenges*

If the Jerusalem temple which was built by costly stones had its own challenges, the Temple of the Holy Spirit has its own challenges. 

So one can not rule out the possibility of the challenges because of the costly stones in the temple. 

Challenges are the part of the Temple of the Holy Spirit

*5) The Challenges of the Holy Spirit*

The daily struggles of life 

Various sicknesses and crisis in life 

The bodily weaknesses

The failures and problems in life 

These challenges at times disturb the Temple of the Holy Spirit. 

So one must be ready at all times to face the challenges of life, even if the Temple I'd built in costly stones 

*How is my Temple of the Holy Spirit??*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

One needs Special sight and insight to see the Poor people

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 34th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 21:1-4*

*First Reading - Dn 1:1-6, 8-20*

*One needs Special sight and insight to see the Poor people*

*1) Only Jesus' attention captured the kind gesture of the Widow*

In the temple there were many people, who had engaged in different things. 

Some were doing business, some were maintaining the discipline and order, some were offering their offering some were praying and some were observing the others 

There was one group of people who were putting their money into the temple treasury, so their duty and obligation

Some were dropping high amount others were giving only a few coins

Among many people there was a poor widow, who dropped two coins without any sound and procceded to the other side, without expecting anything

No one observed this little gesture of this poor widow except Jesus  

*2) One needs special sight and insight to observe poor widows genuine gesture*

Even though there were many people only Jesus could see this genuine and sincere gesture 

This clearly shows that one needs special sight or insight, or genuine observation to observe such kind deeds 

Among many only Jesus had sight a deep and genuine insight, which captured the attention of the genuine gesture of the widow 

*3) What Jesus saw, He made it public*

As Jesus was observing the temple treasury, and the people who dropped money, He saw this poor widow's genuine offering 

Jesus not only witnessed this gesture, but brought to the notice of His disciples and made it known to the public 

Jesus proclaimed the  good work done by this poor widow.

So making it public Jesus also highlighted the importance of observing the good works done by the others and making it known to the public 

*4) How is my sight and insight?*

Is it a sight which captures the poor people's genuine service?

Is it a sight, which could see the struggles of the  poor people?

Is it a sight, which could see the sacrifice, service, genuine love, and sharing of others?

Is it a sight that can observe the least ones goodwill and hardwork?

Is it a sight that can see good and genuine people in and around me? 

*5) Christian spirituality consists in observing the unnoticed genuine deeds by the least ones of the society*

One who is able to observe the poor people's genuine deeds, is a real follower of Christ. 

We can be judged by our mere observation about others 

If I see good things and genuine things in others and especially in poor, my spirituality is of a good standard. 

If I observe only those things which benefit me, which increase my popularity, power, position, wealth, then my sight is very poor, which can see only the self and selfish motives 

*So how is my sight??*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Speciality of the Kingship of Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 34th Week - Sunday*

*Christ The King Feast*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 18:33b-37*

*First Reading - Dn 7:13-14*

*SECOND READING - Rv 1:5-8*

*The Speciality of the Kingship of Jesus*

*1) Jesus the King*

The celebration of this Sunday's Liturgy, calls us to reflect about the kingship of Jesus 

We all of us call Jesus as the King of the universe. 

Whenever we recall to our mind the image of King, we mostly think in terms of wordly standards. But such a concept of kingship does not suite to the Kingship of Jesus 

If so what could be the possible explanation of the Kingship of Jesus?

*2) Jesus' Kingship is found in the Cross*

There is a close connection between the Cross and Jesus 

To know the real nature of the Kingship of Jesus one should see the Cross of Jesus 

In the Cross we read the aspects of sacrifice, humility, obedience, pain, suffering, self emptying, 

So Jesus is the King of these above qualities

*3) Jesus' Kingship is found in the Eucharist*

Eucharist wgich is instituted by Jesus shows the Kingship of Jesus 

According to the Eucharistic spirituality, one could say that 

Jesus is the King of Thanksgiving

Jesus is the King of sacrifice

Jesus is the King of sharing, bread broken and wine poured out 

Jesus is the King of protection

Jesus is the King of selflessness

*4) Jesus' kingship is found in the resurrection*

Resurrection is the indication of the defeat of sin, death and devil 

Resurrected Christ  is not restricted to any  place, boundaries, caste and creed. 

Which also shows the Kingship of Jesus 

*5)Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?”*

Today Jesus asks us the same question. 

Knowing of the Kingship of Jesus at two levels is seen in the  Gospel. 

*Knowing through some one*

We depend on some one else to know about Jesus 

Such a knowledge is very impersonal, and it does not touch our life 

*Knowing at the personal level*

To know the nature of such a powerful man, that is of Jesus, One should know the spirituality of the Cross, Eucharist and Suffering 

One who is able to experience Jesus at these levels then definitely say, I know the Kingship of Jesus because of the personal encounter 

What is my perceptions about the Kingship of Jesus?

Am I able to accept the Kingship of Jesus as referred to the Cross, Eucharist and Resurrection??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Can we experience the Resurrection, as we are still living our life on this Earth

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 33rd Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 20:27-40*

*First Reading - 1 Mc 6:1-13*

*Can we experience the Resurrection, as we are still living our life on this Earth*

*1) Normal Understanding of the Resurrection*

The moment we think about resurrection we think about life after death 

Usually the concept refers to the life, after death and which is accepted by all 

At the same time, the question is can we think or experience the resurrection, still as we are living on this earth???

*2) Meaning of Resurrection*

Traditionally we understand the resurrection  means life after death 

But it can also also other meanings 

The beginning of new life

The rebirth into a different realm

The new way of life 

If these above meanings could be read in the concept of resurrection, one need not think resurrection only after the death, but resurrection can very well be experienced while are still living on this world 

*3)  Sadducees who denied the Resurrection*

The first sentence of today's Gospel speaks about some Sadducees who denied the resurrection. 

This could be seen in two different levels 

First of all the resurrection which is refereed after life 

Secondly we can also see the new life, new way of living our life is also denied with this 

So these people hold on to the old and outdated thinking which does not allow them to have a new way of life or resurrection of life for better authentic life 

So denial of resurrection also refers to the denial of new way of life, which is very much necessary to follow Jesus and to fulfill the demands of the Kingdom of God. 

*4) Resurrection is very much necessary while I am still living my life on this earth*

We could apply this concept of resurrection to every aspect of our life 

Basically we apply the concept of resurrection as the new life or new way of life. Accordingly

We need to have resurrection in our spiritual life 

We need to have resurrection in our attitude, behavior and out look towards others 

We need to have resurrection in our discipline, in our approach, in our service, in our generosity, in our sacrife and other kingdom values 

We need to apply the concept of resurrection to our pride, arrogance, anger, division, revenge, jealousy, miserliness, and other evil things, so that we have new life contrary to these evil things 

*5) Christian Spirituality demands resurrection everyday*

Resurrection or the New life is at the centre of Christian spirituality. 

We are supposed to rise to new life every day from our old ways of life 

*The time is fulfilled, repent and believe in the Good news* is the slogan for the resurrection for everyday. 

Unless I practice the concept of Resurrection in various aspects in my life, there is no real change in my life. 

A life without any chance is useless

*6) Resurrection means New wine into new wineskins*

Jesus speaks about the new wine and new wineskins 

Resurrection is nothing but the way to implement the teaching on new wine into new wineskins. 

Am I ready to fill the new wine into new wineskins? 

Am I ready to apply the concept of resurrection to all areas if my life, still I am living in this earth??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of the Crushing of the enemies and purifying the sanctuary of our Life and rededicating it

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 33rd Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 19:45-48*

*First Reading - 1 Mc 4:36-37, 52-59*

*Importance of the Crushing of the enemies and purifying the sanctuary of our Life and rededicating it*

*1) Three important things in Christian Life*

The first reading of today, speaks about three important things in our lives.

*A) Crushing of the Enemies*

One of the important things which are supposed to do on everyday basis 

Crushing of this enemy, the Satan and the Devil who causes us to sin and destroy our life 

The *sin* is the another enemy, which we need to crush in order to save our life for eternal life 

It is not enough to defeat Satan, or Devil or Sin, but we need to crush it, inoder to destroy it. 

The crushing of the enemy is a continuous war and struggle. One can't take holiday in this war. 

*B) Purifying the sanctuary of Life*

Once the Satan or devil or sin enters into our life, it makes our life impure. So once we succeed in crushing the enemy it is necessary to purify the sanctuary of our life 

The sanctuary of life could be following - 

The conscience

The mind 

The heart

The vision 

The attitude 

The behavior

We need to purify all these things in our lives 

The sacrament of reconciliation is one of the best options available for purifying the sanctuary of our life. 

*C) Rededication to greater goals*

Once it is purified we need to rededicate it for a particular purpose

Rededicating is for a special purpose, or set apart for a holy purpose, so that God can praised through this holy sanctuary. 

*2) My life and this Mission*

How much importance do I give to the above three things? 

The Crushing of the enemies

The purifying of the sanctuary

The rededication of the sanctuary

How do I see these things in my life? 

*3)  Christian life and Spirituality ultimately depends on these things*

It is very important to note that our Christian life and spirituality largely depends on these above mentioned things 

One can't have a good and holy life apart from these things. 

So it is very much necessary to crush the enemies, purifying rededicating of the sanctuary of life 

*4) The relevance of the above three things*

They are relevant for all the time 

They are relevant for all season 

They are applicable to all human beings including everyone

They are applicable at any situation, context, place, any time of the history and to any part of the world 

This shows the universal applicability and its necessity. 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I able to recognize the visitation of my Lord in my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 33rd Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 19:41-44*

*First Reading - 1 Mc 2:15-29*

*Am I able to recognize the visitation of my Lord in my Life?*

*1) Gospel on the Visitation of the Lord*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the visitation of the Lord among His people and peoples capacity to recognise His visitation. 

In fact those people who were expecting the Messiah could not recognise the visitation of the Lord, as a result they missed the presence of the Lord in their lives 

Because of their failure in recognising the visitation of the Lord, they will have to pay the heavy price. Destruction of the Jerusalem and their identity will lose because of the failure in recognizing the Lord. 

*2) The Lord's visitation in my Life*

The same Lord visits our life very often. This may take place in the following way 

Jesus visits my life, while I pray 

Jesus visits my life during the celebration of Eucharist

Jesus visits my life, during the celebration of the sacraments

Jesus visits my life, when I serve others, forgive others, love others, and  help others

Am I able to recognise and experience the same Lord, 

*3) The Lord visits thruough the needy*

In our context today the Lord visits us through the needy persons. 

We come across many needy people in our lives. They really need one or the other kind of help. In fact the Lord visits us through these people

If so what is my reaction to these things? 

Am I able to recognise Jesus in the needy

*4) Best attitude in life*

When we accept that all are created in the image and likeness, one can recognise Jesus in evey one 

If one is able to recognise Jesus in the neighbour, that is the best attitude of Life 

One should learn to identify Jesus in the lost and the needy ones. 

*What about my capacity to recognise Jesus 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*

Engage in trade with these until I return - How is my trade?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 33rd Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 19:11-28*

*First Reading - 2 Mc 7:1, 20-31*

*Engage in trade with these until I return - How is my trade?*

*1) All of are traders in this World*

Basically a trader is the one who deals with the resources he/she has inoder to make profit and to prosper in life 

In fact all of us are traders in this world. God has sent each one of us as traders in this world. 

So the question is how is my trade? Whether I am doing good or not? 

*2) God sends us with necessary resources*

The Gospel of the day makes it very clear that the Master asked the servants to trade on the resources given by the Master 

So Master Gives us the necessary resources as He sends us to this world to engage in the trading. 

*3) What are the God given resources in my Life?*

There are numerous  resources given by God to each one of us

The Wisdom 

The reasoning capacity

The knowledge

The physical and mental health 

The physical strength

The will power 

The aspect of faith 

The spirit of Generosity, humility and sacrifice

Willingness to forgive 

The power of Love 

The ability to see, hear, speak, listen, smile, and to feel happy 

All these are invaluable treasures which are given by our Master, as he sends us into this world to trade

*4) Unused talents become useless*

In the parable there is a person who was afraid to use the talents which was given by the Master.

It appears that the not only the  unused talent becomes useless but the person who possesed it also became useless. 

So ultimately both become useless and the very purpose of trading is lost. 

*5) The danger of Unused talents in Life*

When a person refuses to use God given talents in life's trade, there is a possibility of becoming these talents as dangerous things in life's trade 

The ununsed talent of humility may turn into pride 

The unused forgiveness may turn into revenge

The unused talent of love may turn into hatred 

The unused talent of generosity may turn into greed

The unused talent of beautiful smile may turn into anger 

The unused talent of service may lead us into laziness

So there is a greater danger involved when the God given resources are not used in the life's trade 

*6) How is the trade of my Life?*

Do I tread with Good resources or not?

Does my trade involve any malpractices? 

Have I learnt how to trade intelligently with God given resources? 

What are the hurdles in my life to use these God given resources in my life's trade?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The power of one man's conversion

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 33rd Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 19:1-10*

*First Reading - 2 Mc 6:18-31*

*The power of one man's conversion*

*1)  The Conversion of Zacchaeus*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the scene of the conversion of Zacchaeus

As we feel happy with the conversion of Zacchaeus, we must also see the power or the effect of His conversion on various aspects 

There are many things which took place because of the conversion of one man

*2) The Entire household was saved*

Jesus says, *Today salvation has come to this house*

Bible spoke of the conversion of only one person, Zacchaeus. But the effect is seen in the entire house 

Because of the conversion of Zacchaeus the entire household was saved and there was a great change in the entire household. This is the power of one man's conversion. 

*3) One mans conversion, brought Jesus to His House*

Jesus precisely visited the house of Zacchaeus, because Jesus could perceive the possibility of conversion. 

This very possibility itself, made Jesus to visit the house of Zacchaeus

The conversion of one man, changed the entire situation 

*4) One man's converion caught the attention of Jesus*

Jesus was first one to observe the changes which took place in the life of Zacchaeus

Because of his conversion, Jesus took his figure as the ideal and example for  conversion. 

Jesus made the the  point of conversion and the effect of conversion as the central point in the passage. 

*5) One man's conversion can save the entire family*

The above point is very much applicable to many in the present day context. 

The conversion of one alcoholic person can change the entire situation in the House. 

The conversion of one member of the family, brings about a lot happiness and joy. 

The conversion of one greedy person and do lot of good work in the form of service 

The conversion of one powerful leader and change the entire community 

The conversion of one person can change the direction of many to do great  work of the Lord. 

*6) One persons refusal for conversion*

At times this can destroy the Whole family 

One persons refusal to change and bring a very bad name to the family 

One person's refusal to say truth can have great repercussions. 

One person's to refusal to change can lead a community, into a wrong direction

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Blind man's enquiry to know the Situation - A great inspiration for us

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 33rd Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 18:35-43*

*First Reading - 1 Mc 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63*

*Blind man's enquiry to know the Situation - A great inspiration for us*

*1) Blind man at Jericho*

The Gospel presents to us a blind man who was sitting at the roadside in Jericho

The very fact that He was blind, he could not see anything, but he had the capacity to listen and to know what was happening in and around the place 

*2) Blind man's enquiry to know the Situation*

As usual he was sitting at the roadside, one fine day he hears a strange noise around the place 

He could perceive that something is happing around the place. But he could not see what was that, since he was blind 

So immediately he enquires about the situation to know the reality 

To His surprise some one told him that Jesus of Nazareth is passing that way. 

At once he became alert and started to drow the attention of Jesus and the Crowd towards him, by shouting *"Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!”*

*3)  Importance of His efforts to enquire the Situation*

Since the blind man took some initiatives to enquire the situation, he came to know the fact. 

Knowing of the fact was very useful for him to get the favour what he wanted 

Had he not enquired the situation, he would have lost a beautiful opportunity and would not have got another opportunity to meet Jesus and to get back his sight. 

In this context we can understand the importance of enquiry and knowing the fact 

*4) What is my attitude towards enquiry and knowing the reality?*

Here we are speaking about the enquiry of knowing the Good and those things which help us to grow in our spiritual life and also to live a good and sincere life 

We are not talking about our curiosity of knowing the gossip and spreading it all around. 

So what is the level of my enthusiasm towards enquiry and knowing the great things?

What are my efforts in knowing the great things?

*5) Lack of inquiry leads to great ignorance*

The root cause of our failure in every field, including spiritual field is our Ignorance. 

Ignorance is the greatest demon, which destroys our life

Lack of interest in enquiring about great and holy things ultimately leads to ignorance which is the beginning of the destruction

*6) We need to enquire about these things in our life*

Like that blind man we need to enquire when Jesus is passing by in our life 

We need to enquire about what is my attitude when Jesus passes through my life 

We need enquire, what are the ways through which I can get the attention of Jesus 

I need to enquire about, where do I stand in my spiritual life and in the Kingdom values like, forgiveness, sacrifice, humility, service, sharing, generosity, etc 

I need to enquire about what are my weaknesses which block the entry if Jesus in my Life 

I need to enquire about my own knowledge about the Word of God, the Person of Jesus, my faithfulness to the Master and my willingness to follow Jesus 

*7) Enquiry leads to Wisdom and miracles*

The enquiry of the blind man was helpful in nurturing his wisdom about Jesus and to cause a miracle by Jesus 

Ultimately the enquiry helped him to reshape his whole life in a new way 

Even in my Life, Enquiry for the good thing, Holy things, spiritual things, and great things will enlighten our hearts and minds, only to become great and wise disciples of Jesus 

So are you ready to enquire the Good and Holy things?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Lessons from the Fig Tree : Four Images of the Fig Tree

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 33rd Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 13:24-32*

*First Reading - Dn 12:1-3*

*SECOND READING - Heb 10:11-14, 18*

*Lessons from the Fig Tree : Four Images of the Fig Tree*

*1) Fig Tree with Full Life*

We find this image in Mk 11:12 -14

This fig tree was filled with life, attractive, Lush green, bubbling with life and cause of Happiness 

To such tree Jesus comes in search of Fruit. But there wasn't any fruit in it. 

A tree which was looking very good from the appearance, failed to produce any fruit. 

The main purpose of the tree was to produce fruit. But it failed miserably. 

*2) Withered Fig tree*

The image of this tree we come across in Mark 11:20

A tree which failed to produce fruit, could not survive long

Jesus had cursed the tree and it withered away to its roots. 

Mere outward appearance could not allow the fig tree to survive. That was the fate of this tree 

*3) Fig tree in the Winter season : A skeleton image of Fig tree*

Even though there is no direct reference to this image of the fig tree, one can imagine the fig tree during the time of winter season

One don't find any leaves on the tree. There is no life, there is no attraction, there is no fruit, and there are only few branches. 

Such an image gives us a impression whether there is life or not. 

*4) Fig tree at the Beginning of Summer season*

The reference to this image we can find in Mark 13:28

According to this image, the branches of the tree become very tender, and puts forth its new leaves 

There appears the signs of new life, which will help the tree to become very attractive and to bear fruit. 

This image always gives us the hope of new beginning and new life. 

*5) Fig Tree represents the House of Israel*

The fig tree is directly connected to the House of Israel and the people of God. 

We can very well see these four images of the fig tree in the life of Israel. 

With the first image the people of Israel appeared to be very good from out side, but failed to produce the desired fruit. 

They became unfaithful to God and failed to bear fruit. 

The second image we can see in the Babylonian Exile. Temple was destroyed, many people were destroyed and there was lot of destruction in connection with the people of Israel

The third image comes during the time of Exile. Israel become like a skeleton, which underwent lots of trials and tribulations

The fourth image, the rebuilding of the temple and the new Israel under the leadership of New Mosses - Jesus 

*6) Fig Tree and My life*

All these four images have lot of significance and symbolic meaning to our life. 

If our life becomes like the first image of the fig tree, it will follow the second image automatically. 

Those who try to do good, will have to pass through winter season, facing all types of trials and tribulations. 

Only then we can see the fourth iamge of the fig tree in our lives 

*7) End times and Fig Tree*

The concept of End times follows the logic of Fig tree. 

Depending on the nature of the fig tree end time follows

But the real end time appears to be a new beginning and there is no end time as such 

But those who fail miserably fail at the first level (First image of the fig tree) may have to see the end or destruction. 

Those who cross to the third image will certainly see the fouth image to see the new beginning. 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Widows Beautiful Prayer : Render a just decision for me against my adversary.

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 32nd Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 18:1-8*

*First Reading - Wis 18:14-16; 19:6-9*

*Widows Beautiful Prayer : Render a just decision for me against my adversary.*

*1) Just decision and Favourable decision*

The prayer of the widow is beautiful because it speaks about the just decision and not the favourable decision.

There is a lot of difference between a just decision and a favourable decision. 

*2) There is Justice in just decision*

In the prayer of the widow we see that there is a concept of justice. 

Where as there is no justice in favourable decision. In the favorable decision the aspect of justice is over looked and decision is given to the one who is powerful and strong. 

*3) Wordl runs after favourable decision but Gospel speaks about just decision*

Today the world is influenced by the favourable decisions rather than the just decisions. 

At times the powerful, influential, and those who have power can demand for favourable decision than the just decision. 

In the favourable decision, one fundamentally goes against the right of the person and great injustice is done. Which is wrong in the sight of God. 

To deliver one favourable decision, the person has to commit series of wrong things, like giving bribe, false witness, threats, etc. Such things will not help in any way in the long run

*4) Just decisions can be given by a unjust judge, but a just judge will never give a favourable decision*

In the Gospel we have a judge who is unjust and corrupt. 

Such a judge gives a just judgement, which was demanded by the poor widow. 

So it is very clear that even a unjust judge can give a just judgement. 

But a just judge can't give a favourable decision. Just judge can give only a just judge, because favourable judgement by its very nature goes against the nature of just judge. 

*5) For just judgement one needs to work continuously*

We don't know how many times the widow might have come and requested the judge to give the just decision. 

It is very clear that after asking for many times the judge got irritated so that's why the just decision was given. 

So working for just decision is a continuous, and hardworking process. Unless one perseveres in it, it can't be achieved. 

*6) Where do I stand?*

Is my inclination towords just decision or the favourable decision? 

Do I glory in the favourable decision or in the just decision?

Favourable decision's favour is short term and passing. Where as the justice of just decision is everlasting and permanent. Do you believe this? 

What are my tendencies towards favourable decisions and tendencies towards just decisions?

*7) Follower of Christ and just decision*

All those who accept Jesus as Lord and Master supposed to follow the path of just decision and not the favourable decision. 

Just decision benefits all. Favourable decision favours only few. 

*What can I do to follow the just decisions than favourable decision?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Good is taken and Preserved, Bad is discarded and destroyed

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 32nd Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 17:26-37*

*First Reading - Wis 13:1-9*

*Good is taken and Preserved, Bad is discarded and destroyed*

*1) Gospel Speaks about Two categories of people*

The Gospel of the day invites us to reflect about the two common things in our life 

One is good and the other one is bad. Depending on the nature of the things done by the people, either they are considered good or bad 

So the whole episode speaks about the good and bad people the the consequences of the same 

*2) Noah and Other People*

The first example comes in the person of Noah and those people who lived in his time. 

Noah is presented as the righteous man, who listened and obyed God, in everything

So this one of the reasons why God wanted to save Noah and His family. His entire household was saved by an Ark. 

On the other hand those people who were involved in the wordly things, or desires of the flesh were discsreded and destroted through the flood. 

*3) Lot and Other People*

Lot and His family was another example which comes in today's Gospel. 

Lot and His household was seen as God fearing family that's why God saved them from the fire of sulphur. 

But those people who were involved in illigal things, which defiled the name of the Lord were finally reduced to the Ashes and they were destroyed

*4) Son of Man and one category of people of His time*

The New Testament Shows the figure of Son of Man, who is humble, ready to serve and sacrifice His life, ready to carry the Cross and die on it, to save the entire human race 

Since He was obedient unto death, God raised Him and made Him the Lord of the Universe

But those people who didn't accept the messiah resulted in losing their life for eternity. 

*5) One is taken and other is Left*

The Gospel makes it very clear that there will be selection. 

Accordingly some will be selected and other will be left out. 

Good ones are seleted for eternity and others will be discarded 

So this becomes the general principle of selection  

*6) Causes of Division between Good and Bad*

The Gospel of the Day clearly gives us the reasons which results in division of Good and bad 

Eating 

Drinking 

Involving oneself in the desires of the flesh 

Buying 

Selling 

Doing lot of illigal buiness 

Other evil practices as well 

The above mentioned things cause division and destruction. 

*7) Law of evaluation has not Changed*

From the Time of Noah to the Time of the Son of God and even today, the method of evaluation remains the same 

Method is *Good is rewarded and evil is destroyed*

Today also the same principle is followed in every situation and it works well 

No question of change in this rule. 

*8) Which is my Group?*

Where do I belong? 

Group which ready to take risk for doing good, in spite of adverse situation, in order to preserve my life for eternity 

Or the group which involves all illigal things, which finally results in the destruction of everything

*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 :"The Kingdom of God is among you"

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 32nd  Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 17:20-25*

*First Reading - Wis 7:22b-8:1*

*How to understand the Concept :"The Kingdom of God is among you"*

*1) Jesus and  the Kingdom of God*

When Jesus speaks about the Kingdom of God, He says that *The Kingdom of God is among you.*

If so how to find out it or How to experience it. To have such an experience we need to know the Qualities of the Kingdom of God

The Life and ministry of Jesus clearly show us the various qualities of the Kingdom of God. 

*2) The Qualities of the Kingdom of God*

Forgiveness

Sacrifice

Humility

Self-denial 

Sharing

Trust in God

Speaking well about others 

Serving the needy

Ready to die for another 

Fight against temptation, sin and devil 

Preaching the Word through ones lived life

Witnessing Christ

Preferential option for the poor 

Taking care of the Sick 

Respecting another human being, his/her faith and religion 

Trying to live with religious harmony

Defeating the communalism, division, hatred, based on religion and culture

Living our life with truth and justice 

Practicing the value of sincerity in life 

Strong determination to serve the Lord 

*3) Where are these Qualities?*

These above mentioned qualities not found any where out side in the World 

All the above mentioned qualities have direct connection to our practical lived life 

These above mentioned qualities can exist only with Human life and not out side of our life 

These qualities can be practiced only by the human beings and not other beings 

So these qualities are found inside of us or in the life of the Human Being. 

*4) Practing these qualities in life gives birth to the Kingdom of God*

When one practices the above mentioned qualities of the Kingdom of God, the birth of Kingdom of God takes place in our life 

So it is we who have give birth to the Kingdom of God in our life. 

Unless we give birth to the Kingdom of God in our life, it can't grow in our life 

Am I ready to give birth to the Kingdom of God in my life, by practicing these qualities??

*5) There is no meaning for our life, Unless we find the Kingdom of God in our life*

Jesus clearly says that *the Kingdom of God is among you*

So it is our duty to find out where this Kingdom of God is?

As we live our life with these values we will experience the Kingdom of God in our life. That is the purpose of our life

So the Kingdom of God is within me. God has placed it in my life. My duty is to realise it, by practicing its qualities in our life.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Realisation" is the major difference between one and nine lepers

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 32nd Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -   Lk 17:11-19*

*First Reading - Wis 6:1-11*

*"Realisation" is the major difference  between one and nine lepers*

*1)  1 & 9 Lepers*

The Gospel of the day, brings before us the story of cleansing of 10 lepers. 

As Jesus was going to Jerusalem, on the way He met 10 lepers who requested for the healing form their leprosy. 

Jesus asked them to show themselves to the priest. As they were going to the priest, all of them got healed 

But only one came back and thanked Jesus. Other nine didn't turn up. 

*2) The Aspect of Realisation*

Now what made the one to come back and thank the Lord and other nine to forget everything?

The Gospel clearly states that the leper who came back, had a realisation that, it was Jesus who healed. 

Such realisation helped him to come back and to thank Jesus 

So one can imagine the importance of realisation of something, which takes place in our life.

*3) Realisation - Brings a powerful Change in Life*

We have many instances to prove this point 

The prodigal son, realised his misery when he was taking care of the pigs and also realised the worth of being with the Father. That realisation changed his life and he came back 

Zacchaeus realised the worth of God's mercy through Jesus and the change came in the life of Zacchaeus, which made him to reimburse 4 times back. 

The thief on the right side on the Cross realised His mistake and realised the need of God's mercy. Next moment he was in Heaven 

The Samaritan woman realised who Jesus is. The next moment she left everything and went about proclaiming about Jesus 

The Leper in the Gospel of Today realised that it was Jesus who healed him, which made him to come back and thank the Lord. 

*4) Realisation is a Divine Virtue*

It is a divine quality, which helps us to live our life with Holiness 

The aspect of Realisation shows how much we are disposed to the divine providence and to the divine power 

Realisation is a Divine virtue, because it helps us to walk in the path of Holiness 

It is a divine virtue, because through realisation we become the Tabernacles of God. 

*5) What is my realisation?*

Have a any time realised that I have been saved from covid because of God?

Have I ever realised that I have been blessed with family, parents, Christian faith, good sacred places to pray and pilgrimages places to visit 

What is my realisation about my bodily desires, tendencies of the flesh?

What is my realisation about the wordly things? 

Good realisation always makes us effective and helps us to change our life. 

*What is my realisation?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Feast : The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica : The need and necessity of destroying and rebuilding the Temple of my Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 32nd Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 2:13-22*

*First Reading - Ez 47:1-2, 8-9, 12*

*Feast : The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica*

*The need and necessity of destroying and rebuilding the Temple of my Life*

*Jesus Words : Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up.*

*1) Jesus in the Temple*

As Jesus entered into the Jerusalem temple He saw many unholy things  

He was upset to see that the House of prayer had been turned into a place of business 

So He drove all the animals out, he split the money and over turned the tables of those who were doing the business 

All these things Jesus did to cleanse the temple. 

In other words, cleaning the temple is nothing but, destroying the unholy things and trying to build holy things  

*2) Jesus speaks about destroying the Temple of the Body*

Since there was no unholy things in the life of Jesus, the question of destroying something and rebuilding something does not arise 

But destroying the temple of the body and rebuilding it becomes very important in the life if Jesus for the sake human beings 

So Jesus speaks about, this particular aspect. 

But when it comes to our life, the concept of destroying and rebuilding something has great relevance. 

*3) The need and necessity of destroying and rebuilding in my life*

Like in the Jerusalem temple there may be many unholy things in my life. So it is necessary to destroy them to live a Holy life 

These may be some of the following things which we need to destroy in our lives 

The attitude of greed for wordly things 

The attitude of involving in unnecessary gossip, causing lots uneasiness to others 

The attitude of revenge, selfishness, anger, self-righteousness, and desire for wordly things, and riches. 

*4) Am in ready to destroy and to rebuild my life?*

Destroying unwanted and unholy things and rebuilding it is a continuous process. 

So we need to cooperate in destroying and rebuilding our life 

Unless we destroy the Unholy things, one can't rebuilt it with good things. 

If so, what is my response??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Power of the Three Words : I am Sorry

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 32nd Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 17:1-6*

*First Reading - Wis 1:1-7*

*The Power of the Three Words : I am Sorry*

*1) I am sorry : Only three words*

As we read in the above sentence there are only three words *I Am Sorry*

But these three words are not so simple as we think. In fact they are very powerful and these words can change anything in life 

So it is necessary to understand the importance and the gravity of the power of these words. 

*2) I am Sorry can change any situation*

This is the fact. We may face any situation in life. But the moment we use these words with full meaning and with reason it can change the situation for better. That is the power of these words. 

*3) I am sorry can save life*

At time people are set free from the danger of death only because they used these words. So these words can save life 

*4) I am sorry will give us eternal life* 

The thief on the right side of Jesus only said these words at the last moment of his life. Jesus said to him *today you will be with me in paradise*

These words have him eternal life 

*5) I am Sorry can change ones life*

Zacchaeus is the one who got converted after he felt sorry for the things he has done. He not only changed his life but he also became very generous towards others 

*6) I am sorry can stop any Quarrel*

When there is a situation of great quarrel, use of these words, by one of the parties will change the situation and there will be no fight but peace will reign. 

*7) Speciality of I am Sorry*

The person who uses these words becomes the hero in the scene

After the use of these words no punishment, no arguments, no difference of opinion, no enquiry, no revengeful attitude, no domination, no humiliation. 

*Am I ready to use these words in my day today life??*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I ready to become an Advertiser of the Poor?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 32nd Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 12:38-44 or 12:41-44*

*First Reading - 1 Kgs 17:10-16*

*SECOND READING - Heb 9:24-28*

*Am I ready to become an Advertiser of the Poor?*

*1) Two categories of People in the Gospel*

*The First category : The scribes* At times Jesus called them hypocrites and blind guys for their behaviour 

They advertise about their own hypothetical things. A couple of them are mentioned in today's Gospel 

*Who like to go around in long robes*

*Want to accept greetings in the marketplaces*

*Thet desire seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets*

*They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext recite lengthy prayers*

*The Second Category*

Here comes the widow. No publicity, but does every gesture of charity with great faith, without expecting anything in return

She is good at heart. Gives more than what she could give. 

In fact she gives what she needed most for her survival. 

Such was her generosity with out any publicity

*2) Jesus becomes an advertiser to the Widow*

In the temple many people came to drop the money in the temple treasury. 

Many rich people dropped lots of money, which was observed by at least few 

There comes the poor widow, drops two little copper coins and disappears from the scene. 

Except Jesus no one noticed this poor widow

Jesus not only noticed the widow, but highlighted this good gesture of the widow. 

In a way because of Jesus the incident got the importance and finally became very important event in the entire Gospel. 

So we can say that Jesus became an advertiser to this poor widow to highlight the great gesture of this widow. 

*3) There people like widow of the Gospel*

There are many people who practice the virtue of generosity, like the widow of the Gospel. 

But hardly anybody notices such noble gesture of these holy people to appreciate it and publish it 

As a result such things never get any importance. In this context a disciple of Jesus is called upon to act like Jesus, that is to publish the good gesture of the poor people 

Such publicity will be of great inspiration for many to know the real meaning of generosity.

*4) Am I ready to become an advertiser for the poor and for Jesus?*

Since there are plenty of things which are done by so called poor people will I take little trouble to publish it to make known to the world 

Publicity will help these people to concentrate more on such things and to do greater works 

So all are called to become a channel for publicizing the good gesture of those who are really poor and forgotten

We are also called to become an advertising channel for Jesus and for his mission 

Am I ready for this holy task?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Is My wealth a source of Friendship or enmity?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 31st Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 16:9-15*

*First Reading - Rom 16:3-9, 16, 22-27*

*Is My wealth a source of Friendship or enmity?*

*1) Jesus on Wealth*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the wealth. 

Wealth could honest or dishonest. What Jesus meant by dishonest wealth could the wealth which was amassed by unjust ways, cheating, and illagal ways 

most of the times  excess wealth comes only through illegal and unjust ways. Such wealth is considered as unjust wealth

*2) Wealth and Friendship*

Jesus says *I tell you, make friends for yourselves with dishonest wealth*

In order to make friendship one must be ready to share whatever wealth He/she has

Unless one is ready to share the wealth, whatever he/she has, one can't become friend of another 

So the question is, Am I ready to create friendship with my wealth?

*3) Wealth and Enmity*

At times wealth also becomes the cause of enmity. 

Wealth gives rise to jealousy,  unhealthy competition, power, position and a kind of pride which can create a strong sense of enmity. 

When there is enmity because of the wealth, revenge can take place in different forms. So one should be careful about the wealth. 

*4) The destiny of Dishonest wealth*

As Jesus clearly says *It fails* that is the destiny of the dishonest wealth 

So at least make it useful in certain way, one should use such wealth to create a health and good friendship by using it for sharing. 

*5) One can't amass wealth in a unjust way in order to share with others* 

There is a principle in Philosophy *End does not justify the means*

It means one can't steal in order to help some one. 

*Good ends should have good means* There is no compromise in it. 

*6) What is my aptitude for wealth!*

Am I greedy for wealth? 

How do I use my wealth? Is it for selfish purpose or for the service? 

Is my means to accumulate wealth unjust or dishonest??

*7) Real Wealth in Life*

Peace of mind, good health, happiness and joyfulness, desire to do good, selfless service, generosity, humility, forgiveness, ability to listen others, care and concern 

What about the real wealth 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*

What my Master is hearing about me?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season 31st - Week Friday* 

*GOSPEL -  Lk 16:1-8*

*First Reading - Rom 15:14-21*

*What my Master is hearing about me?*

*Gospel : What is this I hear about you?*

*1) Important question of our Life*

The above question is very important because it speaks something about my life 

It makes us to think and evaluate our own life. 

By reflecting this question, one can correct ones behaviour and live a good life 

*2) Two ways of looking at this question*

The above question has two sides. Either this question can be seen from the positive angle or from the negative angle. 

In the Gospel this question appears as something has gone wrong in the life of  steward. 

*3)  The offence of the Steward*

He was summoned by the master for squandering money and for thr mismanagement of the account 

Towards the end of the Gospel passage we clearly understand how much money he was swindling from the people 

When he asked the debtors how much he owed to the master. He said 100 measures of oil. But the Steward tells him to write only 50 

In fact the debtor owed only 50 measures of Oil to the master. But the unjust steward had made it 100 so that the money of remaining 50 he would get. 

So the stewards illegal income was 100% hike. This is the case of only with one debtor. If the Master had 100 debtors then we can imagine the amount that unjust steward would make 

That's why the complains about his behavior came in and the Master ordered a enquiry about the accounts

So his offence was great 

*4) Master Heard very bad things about the Steward*

The Gospel makes it very clear that, the Master heard only about his mismanagement and swindling of money. 

In a way master had lots of questions about his way of going about and he was not happy With the work he did 

The master wanted to remove from the work for his mismanagement and illegal things 

So there were lots of negative things to hear about this particular steward 

*5) Who do my Master hear about me?*

When we think about our own life, what Jesus is hearing about my life??

Is he hearing about my good life, good way of my behaviour, my value based authentic life? 

Or is he hearing about my arrogance, pride, revengeful attitude, attachment to wordly things, money, wealth and possession?? 

*6) What do others hear about my life?*

Since we are living in a society and in the family, we always come in contact with the others 

What others hear about me? Or speak about me? 

Are they hearing about my selfless service, generosity, humility, forgiveness, sincerity, love, empathy? 

Or are they hear about the bad things in my life? 

*7) What shall I do now?*

This was the question which was raised by the unjust steward. 

But one beautiful thing about the steward was, after asking question he didn't keep quiet. He jumped into the action immediately. That is why the master appreciated him towards the end for acting justly.

So the question is upon hearing our weaknesses or not so good things in my life, what is my response???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*