Modern Herods who try to kill the Infant Jesus, who has born in our life

Gospel Thoughts

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Feast of the Holy Innocents*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 2:13-18*

*First Reading - 1 Jn 1:5—2:2*

*Modern Herods who try to kill the Infant Jesus, who has born in our life*

*1) Herod who tried to Kill the Infant Jesus*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a scene, where we see the cruelty of Herod, in killing the Infants. 

When Jesus was born, Herod was perplexed and worried, thinking that he will lose his power

He thought that Jesus will be a challenge for his power and authority. So he wanted to kill Jesus 

In the attempt of killing Jesus, he killed many infants who were innocent. That's why the figure of Herod appears to be very cruel

*2) Modern Herods  in our Times*

Even today we see such Herods  in our context, where the Infant Jesus or the innocent children are murdered

*The Herod  of Conversation*

This is what we hear about these days. The final result of this will be innocent children are persecuted, threatened and humiliated on various grounds

*The Herod  of Persecution*

This Herod is becoming very powerful these days. Innocent people are persecuted and at times they are killed. 

*The Herod of Unjust laws*

This is another Herod, who is targeting the innocent children. Because of many unjust laws people are made to suffer

*The Herod of Violence*

Today the violence promoted in the name of religion and division. 

In everything we see violence and the Herod of violence kills the innocent mercilessly and threatens everyone. 

*The Herod of Division*

This Herod is also using all the people means to divide the people and there by to weaken the strength of the people 

The Herod of division ultimately makes the innocent people strengthless and destroys them 

*3) Herod in our Spiritual life*

Apart from these our side Herods, there are also other things, which act as Herod in our Spiritual life

The Herod of Pride 

The Herod of anger 

The Herod of arrogance

The Herod of revenge

The Herod of selfishness

The Herod of jealousy

The Herod of cheating

The Herod of Sin 

All these Herods in our life will try to kill the infant Jesus who has born in our life. 

*4) The urgency of fleeing to Egypt*

When there was a danger from Herod to the life of Jesus, they fled to Egypt. 

Egypt was a safer place for Jesus until Herod lived. 

When the above Herods try to kill infant Jesus in our life, it is important that we flee to a safer place. 

So the question is where is my Egypt? 

My Egypt cloud be my prayer life, my value based life, practicing the Gospel values in life etc. 

So am I ready to challenge the Herod, who try to kill Jesus from my life???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The need of Taking the Lord from the Tomb

Gospel Thoughts*

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Feast of John the Evangelist*

*GOSPEL - Jn 20:1a and 2-8*

*First Reading - 1 Jn 1:1-4*

*The need of Taking the Lord from the Tomb*

*1) The Lord in the Tomb*

What finally led the Lord to be in the Tomb? 

When we reflect about this question, we get plenty of things on this issue 

It was the arrogance, jealousy, pride and hypocrisy of the scribes and the Pharisees led Jesus to the Tomb

It was the ingratitude of the people finally led Jesus to the Tomb 

It was the betrayal of Judas, finally led Jesus to the Tomb

It was the craz for power of Pilot led Jesus to the tomb

It was fear of life of the disciples led Jesus to the tomb

It was the Sin of every one led Jesus to the Tomb

It was the cruelty of the soldiers led Jesus to the tomb 

It was injustice and the lies of those who were in power led Jesus to the tomb

*2) What things in my life can lead Jesus to the Tomb*

The revengeful attitude 

The pride, arrogance, jealousy

The laziness and easy way of life 

The lack of discipline in life 

The excessive desire for wordly things and bodily pleasures

Attachment to the things of this world 

Moral decadence or immoral ways of life 

Hatred and anger 

Various sins and living in sins 

All these things can lead Jesus to the tomb

*3) Who will remove Jesus from the Tomb?*

It is first of all my responsibility to take Jesus from the tomb 

When I send Jesus to the tomb in my life, because of my evil ways if living, it is only I who have sent Jesus to the tomb can bring back to my life 

By changing the ways of my life, by living a upright live, by following the Gospel values one can bring Jesus back from the tomb

Am I ready to bring my Jesus from the Tomb 

*4) Jesus in the tomb can do nothing*

Jesus who was there in the tomb for three day, didn't work miracles nor any great things 

He was simply lying there. Only after He came to life, came out of the tomb and performed miracles. 

Jesus who is in the tomb of my life, can do nothing, unless I try to see thins Jesus alive in my life 

So I need to live that life which can bring back my Lord from the Tomb. 

*5) Is my life a tomb or a cradle?*

We are in the Christmas season. 

Baby in the cradle is very active, lively and lovely, attractive and fills the joy in the surrounding. 

Body in the tomb can bring only sadness and anxiety, fear and despair, decay and destruction. 

So what is my life? Is it a cradle or is it a tomb? 

Has Jesus born in the cradle of my life or in the tomb of my life? 

Who will take the Lord from the Tomb of sin? 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*

Most important Qualities of the Holy Family

Gospel Thoughts*

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Feast of the Holy Family*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 2:13-15, 19-23 or Lk 2:41-52*

*First Reading - Sir 3:2-6, 12-14 or 1 Sm 1:20-22, 24-28*

*SECOND READING - Col 3:12-21 or 3:12-17 or 1 Jn 3:1-2, 21-24*

*Most important Qualities of the Holy Family*

*1) Taking Children to the Temple*

This is what Joseph and Mary did as responsible parents. 

Taking children to the temple, teaching them about the faith and morals and giving them faith education is one of the most important things among many others things, which are done by the parents 

So faith education starts from the parents and not from any one else 

*2) Searching for the Children*

When Joseph and Mary could not find Jesus they immediately started to search for Jesus 

They practically came back to the temple searching for Jesus. Finally they found Jesus 

When children are lost, it is the responsibility of the parents to search for the children. 

In our modern times our children are lost in many things of this world. Many of them are out of the track. So they need to be searched for bringing them back. 

As responsibile parents are we ready?

*3) Awareness that the Children are Lost*

Only when Joseph and Mary realised that Jesus had been lost, they started searching for him. 

Awareness of the fact is very much necessary to get into action 

There is no doubt that there are many of our children are lost in many things. But the question is how many of our parents are aware that their children are lost? 

Or how many parents are ready to accept the fact that they are lost. At times parents don't accept the fact that their children are lost in many things. In such case no one can bring them back 

*4) Questioning the Children*

Mary Questioned Jesus when He was lost in the Temple. 

*“Son, why have you done this to us?* was the question of Mary. 

Questioning is very important to correct the Children and to bring them back to the right track. 

Questioning helps the parents to have better control over the children and to correct them 

It also helps the parents to know the children better and to guide them in the right path 

Are our parents ready to question the Children???

*5) Anxiety about the Children*

Mary and Joseph were in anxiety when they lost Jesus from their life 

A certain amount of anxiety about the children is always good. It helps the parents to keep a close watch over the childrens behavior and attitudes 

Not having any anxiety about the children is not a good sign of the parents 

*6) Pondering over the daily facts of life*

Mary did not understand many of the things. But she treasured all those things in her heart. 

At times parenting becomes difficult, many things are not understood. At times it appears to be a mystery. The only solution to this issue is to ponder them in the heart, which will help the parents to know the things in a better way. 

Am I ready to ponder over the facts, or take them into the heart? 

What are the things about my children, I ponder in my heart????

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

*Where will Infant Jesus grow?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Christmas Season : C Cycle   - Saturday*

*The Nativity of the Lord*

*GOSPEL -  John 1:1-14*

*First Reading - Is 52:7-10*

*Where will Infant Jesus grow?*

*1) Infant Jesus in the crib*

For Christmas we prepare a beautiful Crib. We use almost same things every year for the crib. 

The statues we use, the place we choose, the way we prepare the crib almost is same every year 

The infant Jesus or the baby Jesus in the crib does not grow. It remains same. 

Does this means that Jesus is same without any growth? 

*2) The best place for Infant Jesus' growth*

Since in the crib the new born Jesus remains same, we must find out a suitable place for Jesus' growth. 

That is why the best place for infant Jesus' growth would be my heart, my mind, my life, my family and my surroundings. 

Jesus who takes birth in these places will certainly grow and will work miracles in our life 

*3) Do I have a place for Jesus*

Jesus who takes birth in my life can grow. But Jesus who takes birth in the crib remains same 

If so am I ready to offer a place for Jesus where he can grow?

Let's give our life so that not only Jesus will grow, but we also will grown in every aspect of our life 

*Wishing You a happy and Joyful Christmas*

*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 God's Freedom

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  4th Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:67-79*

*First Reading - 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16*

*The Speciality of God's Freedom*

*1) God comes to give us freedom*

Who does not want freedom? Freedom is one of the things which is most dear to Human Beings

Everyone desires to be free. The Gospel of the day makes it clear that God has come to his people to set them free. 

If so, what type of freedom God is speaking about? What are the special features of this freedom? 

*2) Freedom from our enemies*

Now where are our enemies? Are the far away from us? 

In fact they are around us. But to be precise, they are inside of us. 

We can list out the following enemies in our lives 

Pride 

Jealousy

Anger 

Hypocrisy

Revenge

Arrogance

Indifference

Carelessness

Selfishness

Cheating 

Excessive desire for wordly things 

To fight against these enemies we need the help of God. That's why Jesus comes into our life 

*3) Freedom from those who hate us*

Hatred is the root cause of every kind of tragedy

Hatred can be removed only through the reconciliation. 

So Jesus comes to reconcile us to God and to one another so that we are freed from the hatred 

Hatred only makes us more slaves to the bad things and takes away our freedom 

*4) Freedom from every fear*

As long as fear and anxiety rules our life, we can do nothing in life 

Jesus has come to this world to remove the fear and anxiety, from their lives 

Removal of fear and anxiety gives us better atmosphere to worship God, and to remain faithful to Him 

*5) Freedom and the Knowledge of Salvation*

A knowledge which enlightens us to reflect about the salvation. 

God's freedom enables us to have this special knowledge, which ultimately helps us to travel the path of Salvation. 

We need to carve for such freedom which ultimately shows the way of salvation. Such a fredom can be given only by Jesus 

*6) What type of freedom which I crave for?*

What is my concept of freedom? 

Is my efforts  leading me to genuine freedom? 

Do I really desire for a freedom which really liberates me from my weakness?  

Am I looking for a freedom which the world desires for acquiring the wordly things?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Refiner's Fire and the Life of John the Baptist and Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  4th Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:57-66*

*First Reading - Mal 3:1-4, 23-24*

*Refiner's Fire and the Life of John the Baptist and Jesus*

*1) What is Refiner's Fire?*

All of us familiar with the *Fire* which we use every day in our life 

The first reading of today speaks about the another type of fire, which is identified as *refiner's fire.* 

Refiner’s fire melts down a metal, such as gold or silver, for purification purposes. Once a metal is in its melted down state, the dross (metal waste) in the metal rises to the top and is then removed from the metal before it cools.

A refiner’s fire does not destroy the metal, rather it allows the junk within to come up so that it can be removed. A refiner’s fire does not consume, it makes the metal better and more valuable. 

*2) God and Refiner's Fire*

God spoke this analogy through the prophet Malachi to describe how he purifies our hearts. 

Just as a refiner’s fire, God will draw out our dross – our broken, sinful ways – so that we will stand pure and righteous before him.

This comparison helps makes sense of what God’s redemptive work may look like and accomplish in each of us.

God will purify us in similar ways. He does not consume us, rather, being in relationship with God draws us to righteousness and away from sinfulness. God uses our suffering, our sinfulness, and our shortcomings to refine us just as a refiner’s fire, so that the dross within our hearts will rise to the surface and can then be removed.

*3) John's life as Refiner's Fire*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the birth of John the Baptist. 

When we reflect about the life of John, it is very clear that, His life is like a refiner's fire. 

First of all the Fire within John, refined his life, through simplicity, penance, strict discipline, and his determination for justice and truth.

Secondly John as refiners fire, refined many people and prepared them to receive Messiah. 

*4) Jesus and the Refiner's Fire*

The  refiner's fire which was working in Jesus was very strong. 

Jesus says *I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning!*

His words were like refiner's fire, which condemned the hypocrisy of scribes and Pharisees. 

The refiners fire in Jesus cure many from their sicknesses, cast out many devils, brought back many to life, and all types of miracles. 

The refiners fire in Jesus finally led Him to sacrifice his life on the Cross. 

*5) Refiners fire and my life*

How do I look at this refiner's fire in my life?

Is my life like a refiner's fire?

Is there any fire in my life at all or has it already gone out??

What are the things which will strengthen the refiners in my life?

What are the main areas which need to be refined through the fire of love, forgiveness, simplicity, generosity and humility

Does the refiners fire has any significance in my life? 

*6) Christmas and refiners fire*

Advent season is a best time tk think about refiners fire

The sacrament of reconciliation is the best tool for refiners fire 

The preparation for Christmas must include the aspect of refiners fire.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Almighty has done great things for me

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  4th Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:46-56*

*First Reading - 1 Sam 1:24-28*

*The Almighty has done great things for me*

*1) Great things in the Life of Mary*

Every little aspect in the life of Mary appears to be great, because it was done by the Lord. 

First of all, a simple village woman was given a prominent place in the plan of salvation

Secondly God recognised her simplicity, holiness, purity of life and also her willingness to offer herself for God's plan 

Thirdly she became the Mother of God, which is a ever highest gift, God can give to a person 

Mary was given a tremendous courage to face any situation

Mary was given hope that nothing would happen to her, while executing the plan of God 

Mary was given the privilege of conceiving through the Holy Spirit

Mary was given the opportunity of taking care of the Son of God 

All these are great things which God worked in the life of Mary. 

*2) Great things in my Life*

The same Lord who worked great things in the life of Mary, works great things in my life too 

The Gift of life 

The gift of physical strength

The gift of eye sight

The gift of good health 

The capacity to hear 

The capacity to smile 

The capacity to express our emotions

The capacity to love

The capacity to think 

The capacity to judge what is good and what is bad 

The capacity to work 

The capacity to invent new things 

All these are great thing which the Almighty works in my Life 

*3) The great  things in the  context of Christmas*

We can reflect many great things in the context of Christmas

First of all we are able to celebrate Christmas this year amidst all confusions 

Secondly we are still alive, in spite of Covid and omicron

Thirdly, Jesus still comes into this world to save us 

Still Christmas fills us with new vigour, strength, happiness, joy and peace 

Christmas still changes the mood of the entire world, exhibits and atmosphere of happiness and joy

The Christmas star, brings a great light and brightness to our life. 

*4) Am I able to recognize, Almighty's great things in my Life?*

There is no doubt that there are plenty of great things happen in my life on daily basis. But am I able to recognize??

To a believer everything that happens in life appears to be a great thing of the Almighty. 

To a non believer no thing will appear as Almighty's great thing in life. 

One who recognises the great things of the Almighty, will become great in life 

Every morning we are able to get up, with heart intact, mind intact, other organs of the body are intact is a great things of the Almighty in my life. 

Still do I find difficult to locate Almighty's great 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*

God comes to meet us

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  4th Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:39-45*

*First Reading - Sg 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a*

*God comes to meet us*

*1) Advent means Coming*

We begin the new Liturgical year, with the concept of Advent, which means coming. 

Today's Gospel not only speaks about the coming of the Lord, but shows in the practical level the coming of the Lord. 

So coming of the Lord is not a story or a myth, but it is a reality, which is very much highlighted in today's Gospel. 

*2) The Coming of the Lord*

The coimg of the Lord's journey starts from heaven. 

First of all He comes into the Womb of Mary 

Secondly the same Lord comes to meet Elizabeth and John the Baptist

Thirdly the same Jesus comes into this world, taking human nature to meet you and me 

So it is the Lord who comes to us, rather than we going and meeting Him. 

*3) Mary Brings Jesus*

God gave Jesus to Mary, and Mary brought Jesus to Zacharias house and from there Mary brought Him into our life 

So Mary becomes an instrument of God's coming into this World. 

 

*4) Wherever there is Mary, there is Jesus*

Lord came to meet John through Mary. In other words wherever there is Mary, there is Jesus 

So Mary is the Best person to give us Jesus and also to go to Jesus 

She becomes a channel to go to Jesus and to experience who Jesus is.

Moreover it is Jesus who comes to meet us through Mary. 

So being close to Mary means being close to Jesus. 

*5) Mary received Jesus and gave Jesus to us*

Mary received, Jesus and she gave Jesus others 

As disciples of the Lord, first of all, we need to receive Jesus and we need to give the same Jesus to others 

Does my life give Jesus to others? 

Like Mary, let's give to Jesus to others

Let's receive receive the Lord, who is coming to my Life

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various Reactions of Mary to Angel Gabriel

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  4th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:26-38*

*First Reading - Is 7:10-14*

*Various Reactions of Mary to Angel Gabriel*

*1) Mary's Reactions to Angel Gabriel*

First of all she was troubled at the greetings of the Angel 

Secondly She is seen as pondering over the divine  greetings  which were communicated by the Angel

Thirdly she is seen as listening carefully to the Angel Gabriel, when the angel communicated the Divine plan of salvation

Fourthly Mary is seen as the one who is trying to clarify her doubts with the Angel Gabriel 

Sixthly Mary as seen as person who is trying to understand the plan of God.

Lastly Mary is seen as the person who is accepting the will of God, and surrendering herself completely to the Plan of God. 

*2) These reactions of Mary show us the real human nature of Mary*

The above reactions of Mary show us that she is an ordinary woman like you and me. 

There is nothing extraordinary reactions to the plan of God which was revealed by angel Gabriel. 

The above reactions also show us the humility and simplicity of Mary. 

*3) Like Mary we too can achieve great things with the Grace of God*

Mary a ordinary woman with normal reactions is seen as the woman who surrendered herself fully to God's plan 

That is why God exalted her high and She became great in the sight of God. 

So Mary is an inspiration to all of us to achieve great heights in our lives 

*4) What are my reactions to God's message*

God's angel Gabriel, communicates God's message everyday, through various persons and through various events 

What is my reactions to this?

First of all am able to recognize Angel Gabriel in various events or through various persons?

Am I able to speak freely with God's angel?

Am I able to listen carefully what the angel tells me through various events and persons?

How far the angel of the Lord is familiar to me? 

Finally what is my reply to the Angel? Positive or negative??

*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 ask : "how does this happen to me"

Gospel Thoughts*

*Advent Season : C Cycle  4th Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:39-45*

*First Reading - Mi 5:1-42*

*Second Reading : Heb 10:5-10*

*Advent is a time to ask : "how does this happen to me"*

*1) How does this happen to me*

This particular expression is found in today's Gospel. In fact we too use this expression in our day today life. 

In the Gospel it was the expression of Elizabeth, when Mother Mary visited her. She was really surprised and expressed the greatness Mary through these words at the same time it also shows the humility of Elizabeth. 

*2) Various ways through which one can use this expression*

Elizabeth used this expression to express her gratitude and also a kind of surprise towards Mary. In this sense one can conclude that this expression is used in the positive sense 

Secondly the same expression can be used in a negative sense or to question someone about something. In this sense it is used in a negative sense. 

So this particular expression either can be used positively or negatively. 

*3) Advent is a time to reflect about this expression*

During Advent we prepare ourselves to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

In fact the birth of Jesus brings along with it so many blessings and graces with it 

So with a surprise mood we must ask this question and try to get an answer for the same. That will help us to know the great things happening in our life.

*4) "How does this happen to me" - Speaks about great things*

This particular expression not an a simple one. It has tremendous capacity to convey, great things. 

Elizabeth used to communicate a great God experience to others 

So these expressions can  basically 

Communicate a powerful message

*5) How about in my life?*

How do I use this expression in my life? 

Do I used this expression in a negative or grumbling attitude? 

Do I use this expression to proclaim God's great favour in my life?

Do I use this expression, in a positive or negative way? 

What are the surprises this expression brings 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*

In His days Judha will be Saved - What is happening in my days?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Advent Season : C Cycle  3rd Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt1:18-25*

*First Reading - Jer 23:5-8*

*In His days Judha will be Saved - What is happening in my days?*

*1) Jeremiah Speaks about the Saviour*

The first reading of the day speaks about the saviour. Jeremiah tells us about the Saviour and what will happen in His days 

The Saviour, about whom Jeremiah speaks about is Jesus Christ. 

So in His days, Judha will be saved and will witness the days of prosperity. 

*2) Matthews views on Saviour*

Mathew calls the Saviour as *Emmanuel* which means God is with us.

The word meaning of Jesus is Saviour. Matthew presents Jesus as the Saviour when he speaks about Jesus as the one who will save His people from Sin

So the aspect of saviour is clearly mentioned in todays Gospel and in His days people will experience the heavenly peace and Joy. 

*3) Today and in His days*

The concept of in His days, not only refers to the past, but more specifically refers to the present day context 

If so *in His days* very much applicable to my life. In this context Jeremiah is asking us in your days Judha (Your family) will experience salvation? 

Have I become the saviour of my own family and the larger family so called the parish? 

*4) In my days what is happening?*

In the life of Jesus it is clear that in His days, there was real salvation and He was born as saviour of the World 

Today, I am in the place of Jesus. If them, by looking at my life will people say, in his days the prosperity will come in, peace and happiness will reign, forgiveness and service will be highlighted? 

What is happening in my days? 

Good and great things? 

Normal things?

Not so good things ?

Bad things?

Very bad things?

*5) In my days….*

What is happening?

People are happy? 

Family has Become good?

Children are happy?

Love reigns?

Sacrife is seen?

Others are inspired?

Or In my days.....

People are quarreling?

Hatred and jealousy takes first place?

Justice is violated?

Truth has been sold?

Pride rules?

Division takes upper hand?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The importance of the Family and the Family Tree

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  3rd Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 1:1-17*

*First Reading - Gen 49:2, 8-10*

*The importance of the Family and the Family Tree*

*1) The Genealogy of Jesus*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the genealogy of Jesus 

One may wonder why so many names are mentioned, without any other details, or what is the use of these names

In fact they convey a powerful message about the family. 

By reading this genealogy one can come to know the family of Jesus and the people who are part of Jesus' family 

*2) The importance of the Genealogy*

First of all it helps a person to identify His/her family members 

Secondly it also helps the person to build a good relationship with others, by knowing that they belong to the same family. 

Knowing the family tree also helps us to know ourselves in a better way, because what we are, its because of our family

Fourthly the genealogy can help a person to know the historical details about the family and their origin to some extent

*3) Importance of the Genealogy in the present day context*

Today the family and the family relationship is losing its importance and relevance. 

Many think that family and family relationship is not so important. Without family also one can manage. 

Most of the young generation only know their parents. That is only one generation. 

Many do not care about the grand parents and other family members. This culture is growing very fast in today's context 

So in such a situation, the genealogy of Jesus gives us a powerful message about the family, family relationship and the family tree. 

*4) What is my knowledge about the genealogy of my family?*

As we reflect about the genealogy of Jesus, it is very important to know the depth of the genealogy of my family. 

To how many people I can identify in my family tree?

How powerful is my family tree? 

Is my family tree full of beaches with healthy leaves and fruits? 

Has my family tree is already dead or is it very weak? 

My personality can be valued based on the strength of my family tree. If so what is the strength of my family tree???

*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 enlarge the Space of my tent?

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  3rd Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 7:24-30*

*First Reading - Is 54:1-10*

*Am I ready to enlarge the Space of my  tent?*

*1) Call to enlarge the space of the Tent*

The first Reading from the book of Isaiah, speaks about the enlargement of the space of the tent 

The moment one enlarges the space in the tent,  more space is created the this extra space can be used for different purposes 

Enlargement of the space can be understood in a literal way or in deeper way 

More than literal way we need to understand it in a different way 

*2) Enlargement of the space in my Life*

When it comes to life, there are many things which we need to take into consideration while we analyze the concept of enlargement of the Space 

First of all we need to enlarge the space of the tent of my Heart 

Secondly we need to enlarge the space of the tent of my mind

Thirdly we need to enlarge the space of the tent of generosity, tent of forgiveness, tent of love, tent of sacrifice, tent of service, tent of commitment, tent of positive approach, tent of my friendship, tent of forgiveness etc 

So there are many things in our life, whose space has to be increased in order to find meaning in life 

*3) Enlargement of of the space of my Tent*

Here the tent refers to my life with all its aspects 

The book of Isaiah calls us to extend the space of various aspects of our life, which is the Tent 

Enlargement of the tent of ones life is a beautiful concept, which can change the entire direction of our life 

The moment we increase the space of my life's tent there comes lots of new things in life which gives new meaning to our life 

*4) Advent season and my Life*

The purpose of the advent season is to enlarge the space of my life's tent, so that I can prepare a place for Jesus' birthday

Enlargement of the space of my life's tent, is the central and the important aspect of Advent season

Which are the areas I need to increase the space of my Tent? 

*5) A difficult Challenge*

Enlargement of the space of my life's tent is not a easy. 

Such a work needs the support of many things and people

This work demands a serious and strict discipline in order to extend the space of my life's tent. 

Am I ready to increase the space of my life's tent?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: A perfect and most convincing answer to the Question

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  3rd Week - Wednesday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 7:18b-23*

*First Reading - Is 45:6c-8, 18, 21c-25*

*Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: A perfect and most convincing answer to the Question*

*1) The Question about the Messiah*

The Gospel begins with an confused idea of the Messiah. Whether the Messiah has come or not? 

That's why John sends his disciples to clarify the doubt. 

*Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?”*

This becomes an important point in today's Gospel. 

*2) Two ways of answering the Question*

Usually when some questions are asked in two ways the question can be answered. 

First one is to say *Yes* or *No* This becomes simple and stright answer 

Secondly one can inspire the other to think about the possibility of answer or one can help them to find an answer by themselves instead of supplying the readymade answers. 

Here Jesus uses the second style, that is, He motivates those who asked the question to find out the proper answer by helping them in certain ways 

*3) Self answers are more convincing than readymade answers by others*

Since the disciples were able to find an answer, by themselves, they were sure about the truthfulness of the answer 

Their answer was filled with what they had seen, what they had heard from the authentic person and from the inner personal experience. 

Such an answer was deeply rooted in the personal convictions and divine experience. 

*4) The ways of verifying the Answer*

Once again there are many ways to verify the answers, among them Jesus uses the following 

*Seeing and hearing*

Jesus asks the disciples of John to use these two faculties *See & Hear* in knowing the truth 

When they used these faculties, they came to the real situation and the miracles of Messiah. 

*5) Actions speak louder than Words*

When the disciples saw the mission of Jesus, the mission began to speak louder than anything else 

Since the Actions spoke very loudly, there was no need of anything else to answer the question. 

Jesus' actions spoke more louder than anything else about His identity. That is why John's disciples had no doubt about Jesus' identity at the end of episode. 

*6) What about my actions?*

Do they speak at all? 

Do they speak good or contrary to Good?

What are my actions which inspire others?

How can I become a action oriented man rather than anything else??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The tragedy of ignoring the best Change in Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  3rd Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 21:28-32*

*First Reading - Zep 3:1-2, 9-13*

*The tragedy of ignoring the best Change in Life*

*1) The Key concept of CHANGE in today's Gospel*

The Gospel of the days speaks about the parable to two Sons. 

In this parable the word *Change* has a special significance.

First of all it speaks about the Elder son who *changed* his mind and went for work 

Secondly this concept also speaks about the *Change* in the Tax Collectors and the proustites 

Thirdly it also speaks about a group of people who didn't *change* their life at all

*2) The power of Change*

The first son who went through change, had a great change in life and also in his out look. This one experience might have changed his entire concept of the importance of listening to the elders 

The Tax collectors and the prostitutes who went thriugh a change in life, finally were able to enter into the Kingdom of God, before others 

Those who ignored changed were left out and could not change anything in life 

This is the power of Change also ignoring Change

*3) The inspiration of Tax Collectors and Prostitues*

Tax collectors and prostitues were considered as the worst sinners and no body would think that they would be entitled for the Kingdom of God

The Worst Group goes through the concept of Change and there was a great positive Change in the lives of those people 

Finally these worst people were not only praised high for their great Change but also were given the best offer, which no body would ever think off

So the lives of those tax collectors and the prostitues who changed their lives and became heros in the eyes of God, are great inspiration to others 

But the question is am I able to observe this tremendous change in others and admire them. 

Am I able to take their inspiration to my life in order to change my Life?

*4) Change is always creative and Challenging*

The change which appears in the Gospel is very creative and challenging. 

Creative because it gives a different dimensions to life and life becomes more meaningful, and worth living 

Its challenging because, change is not easy. It demands lots of things, sacrifice, disciple, adjustment etc

But one who accepts changes in life definitely grows and one who ignores the change and refuses to adopt changes remains as he/she is. 

*5) How about my life?*

The advent is a time to reflect about the Change in life to prepare ourselves to receive Jesus

What type of change I go through these days? 

Am I worried, frightened, or tensed when I hear about the Change in and around us? 

Am I deaf and blind to hear and see about the beautiful changes that take place in and around me? 

Am I arrogant to observe the concept of Change? 

Do I consider that change is useless concept? 

*Where do I stand?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The purpose of going to the Temple and approaching God

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  3rd Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 21:23-27*

*First Reading - Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a*

*The purpose of going to the Temple and approaching God*

*1) The approach of Chief priest and elders*

As Jesus was present in the temple, the Chief priest and the elders, approached Jesus to enquire about His authority. 

In fact Jesus was teaching in the temple as the one who had absolute authority. 

The Chief priest and elders had the knowledge of Jesus' authority and power. Even then they were not ready to accept the power and authority of Jesus. 

Their purpose of asking the authority of Jesus is to trap Him and to humiliate Him. 

*2) The purpose of the Temple*

The primary purpose of the temple is to experience God. 

The devote of God, approach the temple of God, in order to pray and to seek his blessing 

People usually don't go to the temple to question or to verify the authority of God 

So it appears so abnormal from the part of chief priest and the elders to question the authority of God. 

*3) Jesus didn't answer the question which they asked*

In the whole episode it is very clear that, Jesus didn't answer the question of the chief priest and the elders. 

Instead Jesus asks a counter question to which they didn't have any answer 

God does not answer the useless questions, which don't touch our life in any way 

*4) What is the purpose of my Going to the Temple?*

Generally we have a common answer that we go to the temple for praying, to experience God and seeking blessings of the Lord

But at the deeper level we need to ask, what is my approach in the temple with God and with Others 

Is it only to get the favours from the Lord, or to ask the Lord to bless us with the virtue of Generosity and sacrifice? 

Do I go to the temple to experience God, to fill us with the spirit of forgiveness, humility, sincerity, service? 

Do I go to the temple to fulfill my selfish motives, like to get some recognition, to show my talents and abilities, to show my power and authority, to find fault with others, to criticise others etc?

Do I go to the temple to show that I am right and the other is wrong? 

What is my purpose of going to the Temple???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What should we do or What shall I Do?

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  3rd Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 3:10-18*

*First Reading - Zep 3:14-18a*

*SECOND READING - Phil 4:4-7*

*What should we do or What shall I Do?*

*1) What should we do?*

This is one of the important questions we find in today's Gospel. 

This question is very important because, it makes a person to think about the self responsibility, and accountability

Only when we ask what should I do, we think about doing something from our part. Otherwise we usually show a finger to others and think others have to do. 

*2) Various group of people who came asking what should we do?*

There are three categories of people who ask this question

First of all, the large crowd came and asked John the Baptist, what should we do? 

Secondly the Tax collectors came and asked what should we do? 

Thirdly some Soldiers came and asked the same question, what should we do?

*3) Johns Reply to different groups*

*First Group : The Crowds*

To this group Jesus gives an answer which includes the virtue of Sharing. Those who have two cloaks should give to others and the same logic also applied to sharing of the Food 

*Second Group the Tax collectors*

To the second Group Jesus tells about the value of sincerity and genuineness. One should not cheat another in anything 

*Third Group the Soldiers*

To the third group Jesus tells not to misuse the law and power. They have the duty to protect people and not to exploit them 

*4) What should I do is an important awareness in life*

All those people who change their life for the better experience in one way or the other the question *What should I do?*

This becomes the starting point of their life and finally they are able to see great things in life 

So this awareness is a powerful awareness which can change ones life completely

*5) The Power of What should I do?*

At times it can change ones life 

It can inspire a person for great things in life 

It can help a person to think about his own life 

It touches the core of the being, since the self is involved very much 

It can also give way for creativity, innovations and impossibile things 

*6) What should I do?*

During Advent season this question is very much necessary to our life 

As we prepare ourselves to receive Jesus in our life this question will make us to think and prepare ourselves to receive Jesus 

Accordingly we can highlight the following things 

I need to clean myself 

I need to over come my anger, jealousy, pride, arrogance

I need to practice the virtue of generosity, humility and accountability

I need to hear the cry of the poor and those who are lost 

I need to pray better to welcome Jesus into  my heart 

I need to forgive one another 

I need to be ready to Practice the virtue of sacrifice, love and forgiveness

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

As we come down from the Holy Mountain, what is our talk?

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  2nd Week - Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 17:9a, 10-13*

*First Reading - Sir 48:1-4, 9-11*

*As we come down from the Holy Mountain, what is our talk?*

*1) Mountain in the Bible*

In the Bible mountain has a special significance

Many times God appears to His people on the Mountain

For example, God appeared to Mosses on the Mount Sinai and gave 10 commandments

God also asked Abraham to sacrifice his son on Mount Moriah 

Prophet Elijah and Mount Carmel has many things to offer. 

Jesus was transfigured on Mount Tabor 

Jesus preached from the Mountain. Sermon on the Mount 

Jesus carried His cross to the Mount Calvary and died there 

Finally Jesus was taken up to Heaven from the mountain. 

So mountain has a special significance in the Bible.

*2) Jesus and His disciples on the Mountain*

Usually Jesus went to the mountain either to pray or to teach to His disciples 

So in today Gospel we have the episode of Jesus coming down from the Mountain. 

So it is natural to conclude that Jesus and His disciples were busy either in praying or teaching to His disciples

*3) As they were coimg doem they were discussing about Heavenly things*

The Gospel shows us in clear terms that they were discussing with Jesus about the heavenly things 

They were trying to clarify the matter about the coming of Elijah. 

In fact the coimg of Elijah was very important event from the perspective of coming of the Messiah. 

So they were not discussing about the ordinary or silly matter but very important matter about coming of Messiah. 

*4) Mountain experience in our day today life*

The same mountain experience we go through in our day today life in various occasions 

First of all the Altar in our House is a beautiful mountain where God dwells and appears to us

Secondly the Holy Scripture is another mountain to experience God 

Thirdly the Holy Place in our Church, the Tabernacle is a beautiful and a powerful mountain to experience God

In our Ward when we gather together for prayer it becomes a beautiful mountain to experience God 

*5) The things we need to talk as disciples of Jesus*

As Jesus and His disciples came down they spoke about  the heavenly things 

After returning from these above mentioned mountains of our daily life we need to reflect, meditate and discuss about the Heavenly things and not about wordly things 

*6) The reality of our Talk*

Even though we know that we are supposed to talk and reflect about the heavenly things after returning from the Holy Mountain of the Lord, what are we really discussing about in our day today life 

Some times the Following things take upper hand in our discussion after we return from the Mountain

At the unwanted gossip

Lose talk and criticism of others 

Finding fault with others 

Instead of supporting the good work making a plan to  stop  the work because it is done by opposite group

Trying to speak about our own achievements and taking pride in it

 *7) What are the topics of my discussion?*

In my day today life after returning from the Mountain what am I discussing about? 

What am I teaching my children to discuss about? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The importance of teaching the Right things and Showing the Right Path

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  2nd Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 11:16-19*

*First Reading - Is 48:17-19*

*The importance of teaching the Right things and Showing the Right Path*

*1)  Teaching the Right things and Showing the Right Path*

Today's first reading from the Book of Isaiah speaks about two important things in our life 

First of all *Teaching the Right things* and secondly *Showing the Right Path*. 

The reading also speaks about the positive result of these two things in ones life 

*2) God is the Source of the above two things*

Isaiah makes it very clear that God is the Source of teaching right things and showing the right path. 

God taught the right things to His people through prophets and other people and especially through the 10 commandments

God also showed the right path which helped the people of Israel to reach the promised land 

*3) Result of teaching good things and showing the Right path*

The following things are highlighted in the First reading 

Those who follow the above things, their prosperity will be like a river, which never dries and which flows all the time. River also gives life to the other and it helps various living creatures to take shelter in it. 

Their vindication like the waves of the sea. Vindication means action of clearing someone of blame. So no more faults will be found in them

Thirdly, their descendents will be like Sand on the Seashore 

Fourthly, their names will never cut off from the presence or book of God. 

*4) Scripture teaches us right things and shows right path*

Scripture is one of the best teachers in teaching the right things and showing the right path 

One can simply follow the teachings and the path of the scripture, which simply help us in showing the right path and teaching right things .

Therefore one should depend on the Scripture to learn right things and to know the right path

*5) Duty of the follower of Jesus*

One has the duty of knowing the right teachings and knowing the right path 

Ignorance is not the excuse for any problems. 

It is the duty of the followers of Jesus,  to know the right things and to find out the  Correct path leading to salvation 

It is not enough to know these things, but one has the duty and responsibility of teaching the same to others 

*6) Things which lead to the Right Path*

Genuine love of Jesus Christ

Forgiving Spirit

Sharing Spirit

Spirit of sacrifice, generosity, humility, service, helping others, fighting for truth and Justice. 

All these things one needs to learn and teach others which leads us to the right path, to reach the destiny

*7) What are the Things I am teaching others?*

Teaching can happen through my lived life

What are the things my life teaches to others? 

*Good things or bad things?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' genuine call to Hear. Am I able to hear?

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  2nd Week - Thursday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk Mt 11:11-15*

*First Reading - Is 41:13-20*

*Jesus' genuine call to Hear. Am I able to hear?*

*1) Whoever has ears ought to hear.*

All of us have ears. Ears are one of the greatest gifts of God to us 

Imagine, the situation, when a person is not able to hear anything. It becomes a great misery in ones life 

There can be no power on earth, to substitute the power of hearing or capacity to hear 

*2) The importance of Ought in Hearing*

*Ought* is used when something has to be done. 

When *ought* is used it is not optional either to do or not

*Ought* indicates the need, necessity and the urgency of doing a particular thing 

So hearing is not an optional thing. It is understood as one must do this task without any option 

*3) The important things to hear in the Gospel*

First of all one should know the importance of John the Baptist. Which can be known only by hearing. 

Secondly, to know the great fact that even those who are considered to be least, are great in the Kingdom of Heaven, one ought to hear this truth. 

Thirdly, to know the sad truth that even today the Kingdom of God suffers in the hands to persecutors and there are violent persecutors who persecute the Kingdom of God. 

Fourthly, Even today those who play the part of Prophets are persecuted and even some times killed. To realise this fact one should hear many things in life  

*4) What am I to hear as a Christian?*

There are many things to hear as a faithful follower of Jesus

First of all, one should hear the voice of Jesus from the Holy Scripture

Secondly one should hear the voice of the conscience, where God, speaks to us 

Thirdly one should hear the wise persons in and around us, who communicate a great wisdom of life to us 

Fourthly one should hear the voice of the eldesrs and teachers who guide us in our life 

Fifthly one should hear the voice of the nature, which includes the voice of breeze, voice of the trees, voice of various living beings, voice of the water and streams and other things 

Finally one should hear the various beautiful sounds which are in and around us 

*5) The Cry of the Poor*

This is the one of the important voices to be heard in our life 

A genuine follower of Jesus definitely hears the cry of the poor, depressed, those who suffer, those who lost hope in their life, those who are persecuted, those who lost everything in life 

The final question is what am I hearing in my life? 

Gossips?

Unwanted talks?

Failures of others?

Criticisms?

Loose talks?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do not be afraid, Mary!

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  2nd Week - Wednesday*

*Solemnity of Immaculate conception of Mary*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:26-38*

*First Reading - Gn 3:9-15, 20*

*Do not be afraid, Mary!*

*1) Fear is the beginning of the Trouble*

When people are frightened, they can't do anything or else they will be confused in doing everything. 

Fear makes a person defident in doing anything and the person will not be able to do anything 

Every day people are frightened about doing something or the other 

*2) Angel tells Mary not to fear, before communicating the Great Work*

Angel Gabriel came to Mary to communicate the great plan of God to Mary 

After the initial greeting, Angel tells Mary not fear before communicating the great plan of God 

This shows how important it is not to fear before we start any work 

*3) Did Mary fear about the Great Mission*

It is natural that Mary was perplexed, when She heard the Greetings of Angel 

She was also surprised, and worried  When she heard the plan of God

But finally She was at peace when, she came to know that everything is happening according to the Plan of God 

*4) When it is Possible not to fear in our life!*

When Mary came to know that it was God who is working in her life, she was at peace 

Secondly when Mary Surrendered Herself totally to the plan of God, she was at peace 

So it is very important, first of all to know that it was God who working in and through us and secondly to submit totally to the will of God. 

When these things happen in our life, we are able to over come from any fear in our lives 

*5) Don't be afraid is a important phrase*

This is a very important phrase, which comes many times in the Bible 

It is said this phrase almost comes 365 times, which means each day once this phrase comes 

This also shows how important this phrase is and How God is concerned about us. 

*Don't be afraid* phrase, shows God's care and concern to the entire humankind

*6) Don't be afraid Mary - also my Name??*

Even though there is Mary's name in today's Gospel, this phrase can be even applied to our life 

In this sense God's angel says to us *Don't be afraid ---* (my name) 

This shows Gods personal and individual concern to all of us 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Value of the Opinion

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  2nd Week - Tuesday*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 18:12-14*

*First Reading - Is 40:1-11*

*The Value of the Opinion*

*1) The power of the word Opinion*

Opinion is a powerful word, which opens a variety of things in our life 

First of all, it gives an opportunity for dialogue

Secondly it is an opportunity to listen to the other

Thirdly, it is chance to express ones opinion 

Fourthly, it gives a different view point of the reality 

*2) Opinion is the starting point of Duologue*

The dialogue has a special place in our lives. Opinion helps a person to promote a dialogue with others 

Without dialogue we can't develop any relationship with others 

So opinion helps us to promote dialogue

*3) The Word opinion shows the aspect of Respect*

By asking a person to express ones opinion shows the aspect of respect towards others 

Human respect, is necessary in all aspect of our life. 

*4) Opinion is also the starting point of any Work*

Before we begin any work, usually we collect the opinion of many others 

Taking opinion also helps us to get better idea about a particular thing or a particular project 

At times the opinion of others can inspire us and motivate us in doing lots of new things 

*5) The Wonder of Opinion*

Its a creative word 

Its a word which gives us variety of imagination

Its a word which pools variety of information together

Its a words which shows the richness of diversity 

Its a word, which can bring people together

*6) What is Your opinion?*

Having experienced Jesus in our life, what is my opinion about Him? 

What is my opinion about the going away from the Lord? 

What is my opinion about Jesus being inserch of me? 

What is my opinion about the Repentance? 

What is my opinion about finding my way back through Jesus?

What is my opinion about the Lost Sheep?   

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We have seen Incredible things Today

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  2nd Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 5:17-26*

*First Reading - Is 35:1-10*

*We have seen Incredible things Today*

*1) Incredible things Happen every day*

In the Gospel the word *Today* has a special significance. It speaks about here and now. 

In other words it does not speak about the things in Future or in the past. But *Today* 

This *today* has its significance in experiencing the incredible things every day in our life. 

*2) Incredible things in today's Gospel*

The faith of those who brought the paralytic

Taking the paralytic to the top of the roof 

Lowering the paralytic, where Jesus was. 

Finding an alternative way to reach Jesus 

Forgiveness of the Sins of the paralytic

Healing of the paralytic and the miracle of walking of the paralytic

The amazement of the Crowd 

  

*3) Incredible things in our life - today - everyday*

The above mentioned incredible things do happen in our life every day  

The miracle of the forgiveness of sins

Finding various ways to reach Jesus 

The depth of faith in the people who live in and around us 

*4) Unimaginable incredible things of our life*

Heart, which works 24x7, without rest 

Our eyes are able to see. What a incredible thing

We are able to walk, talk, think, love, feel and able to relate. What a incredible things in our lives 

Like this there are innumerable incredible things happen every day in our lives 

*5) Am I able to see incredible things in my Life?*

There is no  dearth for incredible things in our life. 

But the question is am I able to witness these incredible things in my life? 

The moment our life becomes the centre of incredible things, we wonder at our life, which will help us to live in a different way 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Today, John the Baptist takes us to the Desert, Why?

Gospel Thoughts

*Advent Season : C Cycle  2nd Week - Sunday*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 3:1-6*

*First Reading - Bar 5:1-9*

*Second Reading : Phil 1:4-6, 8-11*

*Today, John the Baptist takes us to the Desert, Why?*

*1) A voice Crying in the Wilderness*

These are the Words of John the Baptist in today's Gospel, quoted from the Book of Isaiah

Since John the Baptist is crying out in the Wilderness, it is natural that we are supposed to go the desert to listen to his voice 

So a simple question to ponder. Why John the Baptist is taking us to the desert? What is the Speciality of the desert? 

*2) Desert is a Special Place*

In the desert we find variety of things. There will be variety of trees, greenery, stones, streams, water, animals, birds, plants, grass etc. 

The moment we enter into the desert, we forget many of the things and we ponder about the things which are found in the desert

Desert is a place of silence and helps us to think and meditate on many things 

In other words we can say that, desert is a mysterious place which inspires us to reflect many of the things 

*3) Jesus Spent time in the Desert*

Before beginning of His mission Jesus spent 40 days and 40 nights in the desert 

These days He spent in prayer, fasting and preparing for his future mission. So desert became a place of prayer, fasting and preparing for the future mission to Jesus 

It also became a place of knowing the strength of Jesus since Devil tempted Him but He was not disturbed. This also shows the determination and focus of Jesus. 

It also became a place to temptations, since devil tempted Him for three times 

*4) Israelites were in the Desert for 40 years*

Before they entered into the promised Land they spent 40 years in the wilderness. 

During this 40 years wilderness became a place of 

God experience

Human struggle

The strength of God 

The power of God 

God working through the ordinary human beings - Mosses 

God's commandments 

The power of prayer 

The weakness of the people 

God's providence

So desert became a special place in the lives of Israelites. 

*5) John the Baptist in the Desert*

In today's Gospel He is taking us to the Desert and asks us to do the Following things 

To Prepare  way for the Lord,

To make straight his paths.

To fill thd e very valley

To level the every mountain 

To winden every roads and to make them straight,

To  make every rough ways smooth,

Evey flesh to see the salvation of God.

This is the Purpose of calling us into the desert

*6) My conscience is my Desert*

We need to locate our desert in our conscience

It is a voice of John the Baptist crying out, to alert us to know about the importance of the desert 

All the beautiful things we analysed about the desert are applicable to our conscience

The moment when we enter into this desert, our world changes  and we reflect about many good things 

It is place for intense meditation, prayer and spiritual renewal. 

So we need to repair this desert, by using the techniques of John the Baptist, by straightening the paths, filling the vallyes, leveling the mountains of hatred, and jealousy, widening the roads of generosity and humility, making the rough ways of pride, revenge, and arrogance smooth to listen to the voice of God in the desert of our conscience. 

So how is my desert? The conscience??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus has given us the authority over the unclean spirits to control them

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mt 9:35–10:1, 5a, 6-8*

*First Reading - Is 30:19-21, 23-26*

*Jesus has given us the authority over the unclean spirits to control them*

*1) Jesus gave them the authority over unclean Spirits*

The Gospel of the day speaks about Jesus' giving the authority and responsibility to His disciples. 

Among them, it is clearly mentioned that He gave authority over the unclean spirits, in order to control then and drive them out from their lives 

The same authority is also given to all His disciples, so that all can drive out these unclean spirits from our lives 

So every follower is given some authority to fight against the unclean spirits and to save our life from these unclean spirits. 

*2) The various unclean Spirits which enter our Life*

The unclean spirit of pride 

The unclean spirit of jealousy

The unclean spirit of selfishness

The unclean spirit of hatred 

The unclean spirit of anger 

The unclean spirit of greed for power, money, authority, position and the sensual pleasures

The unclean spirit of gossip

The unclean spirit of arrogance

The unclean spirit of division

The unclean spirit of laziness

The unclean spirit of Lust 

The unclean spirit of cheating

The unclean spirit of revenge

So these are the terrible unclean spirits which destroy our life 

*3) All of us have power and authority over these unclean spirits in our life*

When the above unclean spirits enter our life, we are given the authority to handle these unclean spirits

Since we become aware of the things, which happen in our lives, we can easily control them provided we use our God given authority. 

*4) The authority is our Will Power*

Will power is nothing but Gods authority which is found in us 

The moment we use this will power or God given authority, one can control any type of unclean spirit, in our life 

Those who have strong will power they can achieve anything in life

So once again the Will Power is the authority which is given to us, by our heavenly Father

*5) My Life and Unclean Spirits*

As we reflect about our own life, it is very important to reflect about the unclean spirits in my Life 

In the above mentined list, it is better to identify those unclean spirits which control my life 

So it is my duty, with the Help of God, to destroy these evil spirits, which defile my life 

*6) Sources of Divine Authority*

As we know that we have been vaccinated with the Power and authority to fight against the Unclean spirits. Such authority comes from the Following

The sacraments of Baptism, confirmation, Reconciliation, and Eucharist

The personal Prayer life and the family prayer 

The reading and reflecting  the sacred Scripture

Adopting the various kingdom Values in ones life 

These Sources really give us the chances to defeat the unclean spirits and to live a holy life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Laborers are Few : The type of Labour involved in today's Mission

Gospel Thoughts

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

*Feast of St Francis Xavier*

*GOSPEL -  Luke 10:1-16*

*First Reading - Jer 1:4-9*

*The Laborers are Few : The type of Labour involved in today's Mission*

*1) The mission is not for few*

When we hear about the word *Mission* at times we have a very narrow understanding of it. 

Usually the *mission* is  restricted to a certain group of people (Religious People). 

This understanding of the concept of *Mission* is  outdated in today's context 

So the Mission and the laborers for the mission has a very wide meaning 

*2) Mission - is applicable to every baptised person*

The Mission of Jesus involves everyone and everyone has to contribute to the building of the Kingdom of God 

If the mission of Jesus involves every baptised person, then why there are few labourers? 

We need to find out the reasons for the same 

*3)  The Laborers are Few - Its a reality*

Jesus calls the following laborers to work in the Kingdom of God 

The labourers who facilitate the work of forgiveness

The labourers who can practice the virtue of Generosity

The labourers who can sacrifice their little time and energy to give a helping hand to the other 

The labourers who can work towards building a just society

The labourers who fight for justice and equality 

The labourers who can enlighten others about what is truth and what is false 

The labourers who can humble oneself for the good of the other

The labourers who can initiate speaking good about others instead of making gossip

The labourers who can think and work for others 

The labourers who can render little service without craving for name and recognition

The labourers who can love their enemies to convert them 

These are the labourers we need today to build the Kingdom of God

*4) The Universality of the  above mission*

The above mission can be done by any one at any time and in any place or context 

The need of above mission is the need of the hour to build a harmonious society

Since this mission involves every one, the mission of the Lord applies to every one 

In this sense every one is a missionary and all have the duty of doing their mission for the Lord 

*What is my involvement in 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*

The Power of Listening

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mt 7:21, 24-27*

*First Reading - Is 26:1-6*

*The Power of Listening*

*1) Listening was the Major difference between the Two Houses*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the two houses which were built on two different places 

One house was built on the rock and other house was built on the Sand. 

The house which was built in the sand got collapsed and the house which was built on the rock stood firm 

At the beginning of the description there is a note which says *Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock*

*2) Great things happened because of Listening*

The Gospel calls him/her as a wise person 

Such a person is able to take right decision

The work which he/she does not become waste

Such a person always has the better chances to victory or success 

The resources are well utilized and at the end of the day, there is happiness about what he/she does. 

These are the wonderful benefits or advantages of Listening

*3) Dangers of not Listening*

When a person does not listen the following things happen in his/her life

He/She becomes a fool in life 

Total loss and destruction of the resources, talents, and energy

The entire strategy goes wrong and there is greater danger of harm for the person 

Such a person loses everything in life

*4) One Should listen to the right Person*

It is necessary that one should listen to the another 

But it is also very important to listen to the right person. At times people listen to wrong people or things and land up in trouble

Therefore listening to the following things is very much necessary

Listen to the Word of God

Listen to the Nature 

Listen to the Cry of the poor

Listen to your conscience

Listen to your parents 

Listen to the teachers 

Listen to your elders 

Listen to the good advise

Listen to your own feelings 

Listen to your body language

Listen to your behavior

Listen to your own words 

Listen to your surroundings

Listen to your heart and mind 

*5) Life Starts by Listening*

Listening is one of the very first thing that happens in the  life of the person 

As soon as the person is born, the child tries to listen to the various things 

In fact everything that is learnt by the child happens through listening to the mother 

So listening is at the centre of Learning. There nothing which is learnt without listening 

*6) Listen and Silent*

Both these words have same spellings 

To listen one needs to be silent 

In fact the Word Silent starts with *S*. This word is the form of bowing, which shows the aspect of Humility. 

Only one who is humble can listen and act on what they have listened 

Without listening those who act, land up in confusion and chaos, which leads to total failure

*The secret of Success is Listening*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*