My daughter is at the point of Death - Is there anything in my life that is at the point of death?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 5:21-43*

*FIRST READING - 2 Sm 18:9-10, 14b, 24-25a, 30; 19:3*

*My daughter is at the point of Death - Is there anything in my life that is at the point of death?*

*1) Jairus' daughter at the point of death*

Jairus was a synagogue official whose daughter was at the point of death. 

When someone is at the point of death, it beings about great anxiety and tension. 

Jairus also had great anxiety and tension because his beloved daughter was at the point of death. So he came to Jesus to ask for a favour. 

*2) Jairus and the Daughter*

The relationship between there two is one of family bond. Where there is family bond, there comes a close relationship between two 

It was this close relationship that affected Jairus and that made him to come to Jesus asking for a favour from Jesus 

So the concept of *daughter* has very deep significance for our life and also its implications

*3) The concept of daughter and our life*

Daughter indicates a close relationship with another person 

Daughter indicates other other person is very deeply related and this can affect either positively or negatively

Daughter indicates a personal aspect of ones life 

Daughter indicates the extended personality of ones life 

So the concept of daughter has very special relationship to the person 

*4) The concept of daughter in our life*

Following the logic of *point number 3* one can identify the following areas in the place of daughter in our life

My thought pattern 

My mind 

My feelings 

My attitude 

My service 

My prayer life 

My spiritual life 

My generosity

My forgiveness

My humility

My joy and happiness

My simplicity

My love 

My sacrifice

When we deeply reflect about this passage we need to replace the concept of daughter into the above values 

Then we can reflect the values in the following way.

My prayer life at the point of death 

My humility is at the point of death 

My forgiveness is at the point of death

So what is my response? 

*5) Jairus' response*

When his daughter was at the point of death, he came to Jesus and begged him to come to his house 

*Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.”*

So Jesus went and cure the girl and everything went on very well. 

*6) Values at the point of death - What is my response?* 

When the Gospel values are at the point of death, either in my life, or in my family life or in the society, what is my response?

Jairus trusted in the power of Jesus and that's why he came to Jesus. It is the same Jesus cured the daughter of Jairus 

When the Gospel values are at the point of death, where do I seek the help in the midst of various problems?

*Do I go to Jesus to seek for help and guidance?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Man from the Tomb : Am I in the Tomb?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 5:1-20*

*FIRST READING - 2 Sm 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13*

*Man from the Tomb : Am I in the Tomb?*

*1) Only animals stay in the Tomb*

Tomb is a place, where animals stay. Its a place for animals to stay. 

Only animals can stay in a tomb. Normal human beings can't stay 

The very fact, the man stayed in  the tomb, he was not a normal human being 

So the man had gone to the level of animal. He was no more a normal human being 

*2) Tomb is a place for dead people*

When we speak in reference to human being, tomb is meant for dead people 

In the tomb, dead people are there, where there is no growth, no life, no creativity, no light and no movement.

At times tomb is also a scary place and there are only bones and no life is found. 

*3) Man  from Tomb had terrible problems*

He had unclean spirit in him

He was living only in the tomb

He was bound with chain 

Others were unable to control him 

No one was strong enough to subdue him.

He broke the chains and had terrible strength

All the time he was crying and shouting 

He was bruising himself with stones.

These were the terrible things which were happening with the man from the Tomb

*4) Sin is a real tomb in Our life*

All those who are living in sin, in one way or the other live in a tomb. 

Sin practically makes the human beings to live in the Tomb of darkness, despair, anxiety, insecurity and hopelessness

The man who lives in the tomb of Sin, can't see growth in the life of faith, creativity in good things and joy in service 

*5) Am I a person from the Tomb*

Womb and tomb are two extremes  of life 

When a person still lives on this earth, enters the tomb means is the biggest tragedy of life 

The person who lives in the tomb of sin, needs to come out of him to meet Jesus, where the transformation takes place 

Man who came out of the Tomb, met Jesus and he was able to live a normal life 

So am I able to come out of the tomb of sin, inoder to meet Jesus to see a new life??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Two Reactions towards Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Lk 4:21-30*

*FIRST READING - Jer 1:4-5, 17-19*

*SECOND READING 1 Cor 12:31-13:13 or 13:4-13*

*Two Reactions towards Jesus*

*1) All Spoke highly of Him*

In the beginning of the Gospel passage we have this particular phrase 

It appears that all people were amazed because of the way He Spoke and the wisdom which was found in His words 

People Spoke highly of Him because 

He was an extraordinary man 

He was speaking with authority

He was able to perform miracles

He spoke with convictions

He was full of divine power 

*2) They were filled with Fury*

The same people who spoke highly of Jesus were filled with fury towards the end of the passage. 

It appears that their anger and reaction against Jesus came within no time 

They immediately forgot the things for which they were amazed and they started to react badly against Jesus 

Such a reaction which comes very fast from the people should be noted here in a special way 

*3)  Possible reasons for peoples fury*

They were furious for the following reasons 

Jesus spoke the truth about their life and their hypocrisy

Jesus showed them how they were deprived of rain because of their sinful and arrogant nature 

Jesus showed them, even though they were chosen people for salvation, God choses the least and the lost one. For example the Widow of Zarephath, and the Leper Naman 

Jesus showed them that the chosen people were punished for their sinful nature and so called sinful people were blessed by God. 

*4) Jesus' attitude towards these two reactions*

When people spoke highly of Jesus, he was not taken up by that, because He knew the real heart of these people 

Like wise when those people criticised him, or when they tried to kill Him, he was not disturbed or felt sad for their behavior, because he knew their hypocrisy. 

So Jesus attitude was one of normal. Neither he too emotional when he was praised nor he was disappointed because of the negative reaction of the people. 

*5) Change from good to bad very fast*

Beginning of the passage we have good things spoken about Jesus 

In the same passage towards the end plan for killing of Jesus in progress. 

So we need to pay attention  how fast the good things turn into bad. 

This is the experience of every human life. 

*6) How about my life?*

Do I have these two natures in me? At what level?

How do I react when I was praised or people speak high about me? 

How about when people speak very bad things about me, or when they spread gossip about me?

How do I deal with such persons who have this multiple personality complexes? 

Which nature is dominating in me? 

speaking good about others? 

Or 

Speaking I'll about others??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Necessity of leaving the Crowd in order to take Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL - Mk 4:35-41*

*FIRST READING - 2 Sm 12:1-7a, 10-17*

*Necessity of leaving the Crowd in order to take Jesus*

*1) Choice between the Crowd and Jesus*

The disciple who were with Jesus, also were surrounded by a huge Crowd. 

When the evening came, they had to cross the River. So they left the Crowd and took Jesus along with them 

The important point to note here is that, they left the Crowd and took Jesus with them 

They had to make a choice between the crowd and Jesus 

*2) Life is nothing but leaving the crowd and taking Jesus along with us*

When we reflect about this simple gesture of the disciples, it has a deep meaning and great relevance to our life

Life consists in making choice between Jesus and the Crowd. 

Since Jesus is the author of life, we need to take Jesus along with us. For that we need to leave the Crowd 

*3) When evening came they left the crowd and took Jesus*

The concept of evening also has a deep meaning in this context. 

Evening here us not mere the sunset or the darkness which covered on the earth when the sun sets 

It has deeper meaning to our life. 

*4) The Aspect of Crowd in our life*

For our life the Crowd represents many things. Some of them may be following. 

These things take the place of crowd in our life 

Money 

Wealth

Power

Authority

Pride

Property

Pleasure 

Desire for wordly things 

Anger 

Jealousy

Gossip

Selfishness

Ego 

Domination

In order to take Jesus along with us, we need leave behind this crowd from our life 

*5) Deeper meaning of evening*

The disciples left the crowd and took Jesus with them, when it was evening 

So this evening could be identified with the following things 

Evening may be the last moment of our life 

Evening is the death 

Evening represents the deadly sickness 

Evening represents, great failures and Challenges

Evening represents the confused state in life, which may include anxiety, tension and worry 

So when these things come into our life, we may feel it may be the evening of our life 

*6) Am I ready to Leave behind the crowd and take Jesus?*

It appears to be a great challenge for us 

Ultimately we have to make a choice between the crowd and Jesus. 

Disciples made a right choice, which made them to leave the Crowd and to take Jesus alon with them 

Since they took Jesus along with them, they were saved.

*What about me?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Nothing Stops the Growth of the seed into plant

Gospel Thoughts*

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 4:26-34*

*FIRST READING 2 Sm 1:1-4a, 5-10a, 13-17*

*Nothing Stops the Growth of the seed into plant*

*1) The Growth of the Seed*

The Gospel of the day presents to us two parables, which show us the growth of the seed and the mustard seed. 

Both these seeds were sowed in the Land and once they were sowed, the growth starts 

Once the growth starts, there is no question of stop. It continues until it produces fruit. 

*2) Various stages of the Growth*

As mentioned in the Gospel, after sowing the seeds, it sprouts. 

*first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once, for the harvest has come*

This shows the process of growth in producing the Fruit. 

*3) There is no backword  growth*

Once the growth starts, it continues.

The growth is always forward.

The growth neither stops or it goes backword

This is the beauty of the growth of seed. 

*4) Baptism sows the seed of faith in us*

Our life is a field, in which the seeds of faith have been sown during the time of Baptism

If so, what is the growth that has taken place in my life 

How is the growth of this seed of faith  in my life? 

Has it become a strong plant like mustard tree? 

Has it become ready for harvest? 

*5) The seed of faith*

This seed supposed to sprout and produce abundant fruit. 

Am I creating an atmosphere to sprout, and to grow the seed of faith? 

The seed of faith has the capacity to become a strong tree like a mustard tree.

The seed of faith is able to produce fruit. 

Its better to reflect about the situation of  seed of faith in my life. 

How looks the plant of faith in my life? Is it strong, lushy  green or dried up? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why Jesus says "Carry no money bag?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*Feast of Sts Thimothy & Titus*

*GOSPEL - Lk 10:1-9*

*FIRST READING : 2 Tim 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5*

*Why Jesus says "Carry no money bag?"*

*1) Jesus sending His disciples for mission*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a situation, where Jesus sends His disciples to different places for the mission 

As Jesus sending His disciples, He gives them some important information and also some useful advice. 

One among them is *Carry no money bag* when you go for mission. 

Now the question is why they should not carry money bag with them?? 

*2) Various reasons for not carrying money bag with them*

*No money power in mission* First of all it is clear that the mission of Jesus can't be done in money power

Carrying money bag indicates that one believes in Money and not in God's power. 

*Money diverts ones attention* Secondly carrying  money bag along with them diverts their attention. This makes them to concentrate on the mission 

*Money bag looks for returns* carrying money bag shows that ones looks for the returns for the mission one does. No material rewards for doing the mission of the Lord

*Money can't buy Gods mission*

The mission of the Lord includes in service, forgiveness, humility, sacrifice, sharing, love, reconciliation, martyrdom, peace, harwork, sincerity, tenderness, compassion etc. 

All the above mentioned things in no way can be bought for money 

Money neither buy nor can build the Kingdom of God

*Money is the root cause of all evil* These words from the scripture shows that where ever there is money involved the evil things also take birth and they try to destroy the Good work 

So we focus on good things and not bad things. 

*Money makes one to use shortcut methods* one can't build the kingdom of God by using shortcut methods. 

Only hard work will help us to do the mission of the Lord. 

*3)  How about money bag in my Life?*

What is the importance to the money bag do I give in my life? 

Do my money bag demands money through illegal means?

*Do I believe in money more than  I beilve in mydelf*

How do I evaluate my life, when it comes money 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*

Why Jesus says "Carry no money bag?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL - Lk 10:1-9*

*FIRST READING : 2 Tim 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5*

*Why Jesus says "Carry no money bag?"*

*1) Jesus sending His disciples for mission*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a situation, where Jesus sends His disciples to different places for the mission 

As Jesus sending His disciples, He gives them some important information and also some useful advice. 

One among them is *Carry no money bag* when you go for mission. 

Now the question is why they should not carry money bag with them?? 

*2) Various reasons for not carrying money bag with them*

*No money power in mission* First of all it is clear that the mission of Jesus can't be done in money power

Carrying money bag indicates that one believes in Money and not in God's power. 

*Money diverts ones attention* Secondly carrying  money bag along with them diverts their attention. This makes them to concentrate on the mission 

*Money bag looks for returns* carrying money bag shows that ones looks for the returns for the mission one does. No material rewards for doing the mission of the Lord

*Money can't buy Gods mission*

The mission of the Lord includes in service, forgiveness, humility, sacrifice, sharing, love, reconciliation, martyrdom, peace, harwork, sincerity, tenderness, compassion etc. 

All the above mentioned things in no way can be bought for money 

Money neither buy nor can build the Kingdom of God

*Money is the root cause of all evil* These words from the scripture shows that where ever there is money involved the evil things also take birth and they try to destroy the Good work 

So we focus on good things and not bad things. 

*Money makes one to use shortcut methods* one can't build the kingdom of God by using shortcut methods. 

Only hard work will help us to do the mission of the Lord. 

*3)  How about money bag in my Life?*

What is the importance to the money bag do I give in my life? 

Do my money bag demands money through illegal means?

*Do I believe in money more than  I beilve in mydelf*

How do I evaluate my life, when it comes money 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*

New Languages, Spoken by St Paul

Gospel Thoughts

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

*Feast of the Conversion of St Paul*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 16:15-18*

*FIRST READING - Acts 22:3-16 or Acts 9:1-22*

*New Languages, Spoken by St Paul*

*1) They will Speak new languages*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the sending of the disciples, their mission and also the miracles that will take place while doing the mission

Only one requirement, which is needed, that they must believe in Jesus and must proclaim about Jesus 

So in such situation, they will be able to do many things like, driving out demons, speaking of New languages, healing of the sick, protection from every kind of harm and evil etc 

*2) St Paul is the one who believed and proclaimed Jesus*

When we reflect about the life of St Paul, it is very clear that He firmly believed in Jesus, accepted Him as Lord and Master and proclaimed His message

That's why he was able to perform lots of miracles, and spoke different languages whenever he went 

That's why we can say that St Paul was the Champion of speaking different languages to different people. 

*3) 13 Love letters of St Paul*

St Paul wrote 13 letters to different communities. 

All these were love letters of St Paul to these different communities. 

So it is very clear that, He spoke different types of languages to different groups. 

Such a kind of languages was needed and St Paul was able to convince people to Accept Jesus as their master 

*4) Different types of Languages spoken by St Paul*

St Paul spoke the language of Love 

St Paul spoke the language of forgiveness 

St Paul spoke the language of Blessing 

St Paul spoke the languages of sacrifice

St Paul spoke the language of determination and conviction 

St Paul spoke the language of healing 

St Paul spoke the language of Conversion

St Paul spoke the language of humility 

St Paul spoke the language of truth and Justice 

St Paul spoke the language of God's merciful Love 

St Paul spoke the language of Service

St Paul spoke the language of learning in order to defend and live ones faith 

St Paul spoke the language of the crucified Christ

St Paul spoke the language of the Cross

So this was the richness of St Paul's language, while proclaiming the Kingdom of God. 

*5) What type language do I speak?*

As a faithful follower of Jesus, I do believe in Jesus and proclaim His message. So in this mission, what type of Language do I use?? 

Do I use the language of love, language of forgiveness, language of humility, language of sacrifice and service, language of forgiveness and reconciliation, language of peace and joy, language of truth and justice, language of martyrdom etc? 

Or 

Do I speak the language of hatred, revenge, undue desire for accumulation of wordly things, language of jealousy and gossip, language of short cuts and easy ways, language of greed and cheating??

What type of language do I have 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*

Has my Kingdom a divided one?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 3:22-30*

*FIRST READING -2 Sm 5:1-7, 10*

*Has my Kingdom a divided one??*

*1) A divided Kingdom*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a situation where we see issue of divived kingdom and divided household

When such a situation prevails in the kingdom or in the Household, it is very difficult to manage it. 

Such a kingdom or household can hardly see the growth and development 

*2) My Life - a kingdom and Household*

Like the Kingdom and Household, my life can be compared to these concepts. 

If so, we need to think whether my life and divided kingdom and  Household or is the unity of it intact and in good condition?? 

Such an evaluation will help to see where do we stand in our life and what is our strength? 

*3)  Things which causes the division in our life*

There are many things which can cause division in our life 

First of all there is a spiritual aspect and the wordly aspect in our life 

There is a continuous fight between the flesh and the soul 

So the aspects of hatred, pride, jealousy, revenge, selfishness, anger, give rise to a division in our life 

Moreover our bodily passions, weaknesses, desire for wordly things, power, authority, name and wealth also creates a division in our life 

*4) What is the gravity of division in my life?*

There is no doubt that there a kind of division in my life 

A division between good and bad, a division between holy and propane. 

So we need to evaluate which division is dominating in us or which part is ruling in our life 

It is quite true that we can't abilosh this division but certainly we can control the ratio between this 

If so we need to find out which division is dominant in us 

*5) Am I working towards greater unity in my life*

Unity with in my life is more important than anything else in this word

Unity of thought, unity of action, unity of my feelings and unity in my way of life is more important

When there is more division in my thoughts, words, feelings, more confusion and it leads to total chaos in ones life. 

A chaotic life can't be a holy life,  a divided life can't be s peaceful life, a life filled with bad things can't become a satisfied life 

If so will I be able to work for unity rather than division??

*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 Word of God

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL - Lk 1:1-4; 4:14-21*

*First Reading : Neh 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10*

*SECOND READING 1 Cor 12:12-30 or 12:12-14, 27*

*The Power of the Word of God*

*1) Sunday of the Word of God*

On September 30, 2019, on the liturgical memorial of St. Jerome, Pope Francis announced that the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time would be celebrated as the Sunday of the Word of God. 

This Sunday specially calls us to reflect about the importance of the Word of God, its significance, its power and also its necessity to our Life 

All the readings of this Sunday speak about the power of the Word of God 

*2) First reading and the power of the Word of God*

After the captivity in Babylon, the Israelites returned to their native place 

Under the leadership of Nehemiah, people came together. To this people the priest Ezra proclaimed the Word of God 

Those people listened carefully to the proclaimed word from morning till noon. Because of their intense listening 

People started to Cry 

People realised their mistake

People understood the importance of the Word of 

God 

People started to share with one another whatever they had 

People also came together to celebrate the day of the Lord 

All these happened because they listened the Word of God 

*3)  Jesus and the Word of God*

The Gospel of the day gives an account of the beginning of Jesus' ministry. 

Interestingly, Jesus starts His ministry by reading and proclaiming the Word 

He not onlt proclaims the Word but also shows that the Word is fulfilled in His life 

If Jesus starts His mission by proclaiming the Word of God, we can imagine the importance Jesus gives to the Word of God 

The ministry which began by Proclaiming the Word of God, becomes successful and finally Jesus achieves the purpose of His mission 

This shows the power of the Word of God 

*4) How about the use of the Word of God in my life*

We know the power of the Word of God 

Letter to the  Hebews says the Word of God is Two edged sword, which is sharper than anything else in the World 

*The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.* Hebrews 4:12

If so how do I use it in my life? 

Do I make an attempt to read it every day? 

Do I make an effort to reflect and understand it? 

Do I try in any way to live in my day today life?? 

Have I ever realised the power of the Word of God?

*5) The availability of the Word of God*

Today it is available in my own mother tongue

Today it is available easily even in my mobile through various applications

Today the explanation of the Word of God available in numerous and easy ways 

It is available at our finger tips

*If so what is my attitude towards The Word of God??*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The need of Out of mind logic to build the Kingdom of God

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 3:20-21*

*FIRST READING - 2 Sm 1:1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27*

*The need of Out of mind logic to build the Kingdom of God*

*1) He is out of His mind*

As Jesus began His ministry, it took a different turn, which no one would have imagined 

Because of this new way of proclaiming the Good News it caught the attention of the people. So people gathered in big number to listen to Jesus and to get favours from Him. 

Because of this situation, the schedule became very busy, and Jesus and His disciples didn't find much time to go home and to be with them for eating. 

As a result Jesus' relatives came to take him forcefully, for they thought he is out of his mind, looking at Him new type of ministry

*2) How to understand 'Out of His mind' Logic?*

In ordinary understanding one would say, such a person is mad. 

In other words we can also think in a different way. 

Mind refers to thinking. So thinking  according  to the human way of thinking would be considered reasonable or the person is alright 

But such normal human ways of thinking can't understand the Logic of the Kingdom of God 

One should go beyond the normal course of Human thinking in order to understand the logic of the Kingdom of God 

So such a logic could be considered as the *out of ones mind logic*

*3) Jesus and the Out of ones mind logic*

To understand Jesus and His ministry one needs to adapt this logic, that is out of ones mind logic 

One should think beyond the normal reasoning to understand the logic of Jesus 

Unless one adopts such a logic one can't understand Jesus and one can't follow Jesus 

*4) Examples of out of ones mind logic*

Jesus' teaching on praying for ones enemies and persecutors 

Jesus' teaching on loving ones enemies 

Jesus' teaching on doing good to those who do bad things for you 

Jesus' teaching on showing the left cheek if some one strikes you to the right cheek 

Jesus' teaching on walking an a extra mile if some one asks you  to walk with him 

Jesus' teaching on giving ones coat if some one asks for something

Jesus' teaching on leaving the 99 and going in search of 1 which is lost 

Jesus' teaching on forgiving ones enemies 

All these teachings could be understood only if one uses the *out of ones mind logic*

*5) The wisdom of the world is foolishness*

St Paul in His first letter to the Corinthians says *For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight.* 1 Cor 3:9

So thinking according to the so called human reason is a foolishness to God

So to understand the Logic of the Cross one should go beyond this normal Human reason. Going beyond to such a logic is itself could be understood as *Out of ones mind Logic*

*6) What logic do I follow in my Life?*

In order to follow the teachings of the Lord and to build the Kingdom of God, I need to go beyond the normal mind or reasoning. Only then I may be able to understand the logic of Jesus 

*Am I ready for out of my mind logic for the sake of Jesus?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The significance of Jesus Choosing His Apostles from the Mountain

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 3:13-19*

*FIRST READING - 1 Sm 24:3-21*

*The significance of Jesus Choosing His Apostles from the Mountain*

*1) Jesus on the Mountain*

The Gospel of the day begins with Jesus' journey to the Mountain 

*Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him. He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles*

Is there any significance in this particular process? What can we learn from this? Is there any symbolic meaning in this process

*2) Mountain in the Bible*

Mountain has a special significance in the Bible. 

In the Book of Genesis and Exodus we see many things happen in the mountain, when it comes to meet the Lord. 

Abraham was asked to go to Mount Moriah to sacrifice His Son 

God gave 10 commandments to Moses  at Mount Sinai

Prophet Elijah encountered God at Mount Carmel 

We have a beautiful teaching from the Sermon on the Mount 

Jesus was transfigured at mount Tabore 

Jesus asked His disciple to gather at Mount Horeb 

Jesus died on the mount Calvary

Now Jesus is Choosing His disciples from the mountain. 

This is because mountain has a special significance in the Bible

It is believed that God's presence is better felt in the mountain than anywhere else 

Its a place close to God and heaven 

So for these reason Jesus goes the mountain to choose His apostles 

*3) The significance of the Mountain to the Apostles life*

The very fact that the Apostle were chosen from the mountain, it also reflect the type of life which is expected from the Apostles 

Mountain is a holy place, likewise the apostles life should be holy 

Mountain is very close to God. Likewise apostles should be very close to God 

Mountain is a place of encountering God. Like wise the life of Apostles should a place of Encountering God to others 

Mountain is a place, which is higher than other places. Like wise the life of the Apostles should higher in spirituality than others 

Mountain is a place of proclamation. Likewise the life of Apostles should be a place of proclamation. 

*4) All of us have been Chosen from the Mountain*

We have been brought to the mountain of the Church altar for Baptism

We have been Chosen by our God from the mountain of the Altar through the sacrament of Baptism

Since this mountain (Church Altar) is a holy place, our life also should reflect the holiness of the Altar 

How about my Life? Is it suitable to the mountain 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*

What type of boat have I kept ready to protect myself?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 3:7-12*

*FIRST READING - 1 Sm 18:6-9; 19:1-7*

*What type of boat have I kept ready to protect myself?*

*1) Jesus told His Disciples to kept the boat ready*

The Gospel of the day, presents to us a situation, where Jesus tells His disciples to keep a boat ready. 

The purpose of keeping ready the boat is following

To protect Himself from the crowd. Because lots of people had gathered from different places 

To also select a place for preaching, so that all people could see Him clearly 

Boat always kept in the sea shore. So people can gather only on one side. So it gives a better view for both - Jesus and also to the people 

*2) Boat as a instrument of self protection*

From the narration of the Gospel it is very clear that boat is kept ready as a instrument of protection 

So boat becomes very important instrument in the life of Jesus 

Does this boat has any significance to our life?

*3)  We are supposed to keep ready the boat in our life*

Like Jesus all of need to keep ready the boat for our protection. If so what types boats do we have in our life. 

May be some of the possible would be the following

The boat of prayer 

The boat of Eucharist

The boat of reconciliation

The boat of Scared Scripture

The boat of personal prayer 

The boat of smile 

The boat of humility

The boat of forgiveness

The boat of love

The boat of sacrifice

The boat of service 

The boat of generosity

The boat of sincerity

The boat of hardwork

The boat of simplicity

All these boats are freely available in the ocean of Christian life and in the Church 

*4) What are the boats I have ready for my protection*

Today we are living in a society, where loads of wordly things fall on us from different sides 

At times we are unable to protect ourselves from this *crowd* of wordly things 

In such situation we need the above boats to protect ourselves, so that we may save ourselves from being crushed under these wordly things 

If so what are the boats I have at my disposal? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Withered attitude is more dangerous than withered hand

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 3:1-6*

*FIRST READING - 1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51*

*Withered attitude is more dangerous than withered hand*

*1) Man with Withered hand in today's Gospel*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a man with a withered hand 

When the hand is withered the person partially becomes inactive because of the inability in using the hand

The person with withered hand also suffers a lot and finds hard to do day today's work. 

That's why He was there in the synagogue with the intension of getting better. 

*2) The Pharisees with withered attitude*

In the same synagogue there were many Pharisees, who were waiting to trap Jesus 

*First of all their sight had withered* because of that they were not able to see good things, but were trying to see something wrong in Jesus 

*Secondly their mind had withered* because they were using their mind not for good things but to trap Jesus and to find fault with Jesus

*Thirdly their tongue had withered* This is because when Jesus asked *Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?”* they remained silent. Didn't speak anything, in spite of knowing that they are supposed to do good on Sabbath day. 

*Fourthly their relationship had withered* because finally they made unholy alliance with Herodians to kill Jesus 

*Fifthly their reasoning capacity had withered* because they were making plans to destroy rather than to do good

*3) Withered attitude is dangerous to everyone*

With withered attitude first of all the person destroys his/her own life. With such an attitude he/she can gain nothing, but on the contrary he/she will destroy his/her life 

Secondly such attitude will be dangerous to others life. As we see in the Gospel, Pharisees with such attitude were trying to kill Jesus or to spoil His reputation. 

Thirdly such an attitude destroys the peaceful atmosphere and the trust of another person

So withered attitude is very dangerous to everyone

*4) Has my attitude withered in any way?*

Do I have a withered mind, and  heart? 

What about sight? Has it withered and not able to see good and great things in others? 

What about my generosity? Has it withered when it comes to help someone? 

What about my tongue? Has it withered when it comes to speak the truth and speak for justice? 

Has my approach withered? 

Has my smile withered? 

*There are so many things to evaluate 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*

The LORD looks into the heart : How to look at the Heart?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 2:23-28*

*FIRST READING 1 Sm 16:1-13*

*"The LORD looks into the heart.” : How to look at the Heart?*

*1) The Lord looks at the Heart*

The first reading of the day speaks about the anointing of David as the King of Israel, in the place of Saul

In the process of selecting and anointing David, Prophet Samuel thinks that the Lord has chosen the first son of Jesse. 

In this context the famous dialogue comes from the Lord *Not as man sees does God see, because he sees the appearance but the LORD looks into the heart.”*

So how to look at the heart of the person than appearance??

*2) Heart is the Symbol of Love❤️*

This ❤️ is the usual and universally accepted symbol of the heart

When we see this symbol, automatically we remember the reality of *Love*

So heart stands for Love and Love stands for heart 

So looking at the heart means looking at the reality of Love 

*3) Look at the Heart means look at the Aspect of Love*

Seeing the aspect of Love in ones life and in ones deeds 

When a person does something we can evaluate the persons work based on the aspect of Love 

Whether the person is doing the work with love or for the sake of  doing 

Whether the persons deeds, actions, behavior and life moved with love or anything else should be the yardstick for evaluation

*4) The Agapeic form of Love*

There are different forms of love 

*Eros: erotic, passionate love.*

*Philia: love of friends and equals.*

*Storge: love of parents for children.*

*Agape: love of mankind.*

The agape love is the Genuine love. One should look at this love in ones life

*5) What type of heart and Love I have??*

Is it a heart with love that of Jesus - a unconditional love?

Is it a heart with service minded love that of Mother Mary? 

Is it a heart with fire of love that of John the Baptist??

Is it a heart with betraying love that of Judas??

Is it a heart with hypocritical love that of Scribes and Pharisees?

Is it a heart with malicious love that of King Herod??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Fresh wineskins of Christian Faith

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 2:18-22*

*FIRST READING - 1 Sm 15:16-23*

*The Fresh wineskins of Christian Faith*

*1) Jesus on fresh wineskins*

In the Gospel of the day, Jesus speaks about the two types types of wineskins 

The Old wineskins and the fresh wineskins. 

Finally Jesus says that one should have the fresh wineskins to fill the fresh wine. 

One can't fill the fresh wine into the old wineskins. So the need of fresh wineskins is highlighted in today's Gospel. 

*2) Fresh Wineskins according to Jesus*

The public ministry of Jesus reveals the type of fresh wineskins which are needed to fill the fresh wine of the Kingdom of God. 

*The wineskin of Forgiveness* : This is the most important wineskin which is needed to fill the wine of the Kingdom of God. Christian life and faith is impossible without this wineskin. 

*The Wineskin of Sacrifice*: The sacrifice of Jesus' life shows us the importance of this wineskin in our life. Selfless is possible only through this wineskin. 

*The Wineskin of Service*: This wineskin is like a heart in human life. Without heart life is impossible. Without service Christian faith is dead. 

*The wineskin of Humility* : The life of Jesus especially His willingness to die on the cross shows the height of humility of Jesus. 

*The wineskin of Love* Because of Love God became man. Because of Love man can become God. 

*The wineskin of Simplicity* In the modern world, this wineskin is very much needed to live a genuine Christian life 

*3) Which are the wineskins I have in my Life?*

As we reflect about today's Gospel, it is necessary to check, about the wineskins which I have in my life 

What about the above mentioned wineskins. Do I have them in my life? 

Am I ready to discard the old wineskins in order to use the new wineskins 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*

I need to Consider that My life as one of the Water Jars in wedding at Cana

Gospel Thoughts*

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

*GOSPEL -  Jn 2:1-11*

*FIRST READING - Is 62:1-5*

*SECOND READING 1 Cor 12:4-11*

*I need to Consider that My life as one of the Water Jars in wedding at Cana*

*1) Wedding at Cana*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the wedding at Cana. 

Jesus, Mary and His disciples were present for the marriage. There during the Function, Wine runs out of stock

Mary requests Jesus to save the situation. That's why Jesus performs a miracles where He turns water into wine

*2) Marriage at Cana and the Water Jars*

In the miracle of turning the water into wine, the existence of the Jars also play a very important role 

As Gospel mentions, there were huge 6 water jars, which were kept for ceremonial washing 

These 6 jars become the important aspect of the miracle, and we know the use of these jars

*3) The Role of the Jars*

Jars were used to fill the water, which was later transformed into wine by Jesus 

Jars helped to contain the necessary raw material for the miracle, that is water 

Jesus performs the miracle from using the available things 

So, jars, water and the service of the servant become the integral part of the miracle

*4) My Life as a Jar*

We can see our life as a beautiful jar, created by God

Either this jar can be kept empty, or with ordinary water or with miracle water 

Jesus works on what is available in the Jar 

The very fact that Jesus was able to produce good quality of wine, it is right to conclude that that quality of the water also was good 

So what type of material I am filling in the Jar of my Life 

*5) Jar was filled by the Servents*

The filling of the jars was an important task in the miracle. 

Jesus asks the servants to fill the jars with Water 

After filling the jars with Water Jesus works miracle. 

*6) Who is filling the jar of my life?*

Is it my Spiritual self? 

Is it my bodily self? 

Is the world around filling my jar of life?

Is the wordly things filling the jar of my Life?

Miracle depends on what is filled in the Jar

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

There is no time in Human History without a Physician

Gospel Thoughts*

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 2:13-17*

*FIRST READING - 1 Sm 9:1-4, 17-19; 10:1*

*There is no time in Human History without a Physician*

*1)  Role of the Physicians in  human Life*

We can't think of Human life without a physician or a doctor. 

When the Human history began, it also brought along with it the physician to treat the illness of the Human beings 

So there is a close connection between the physician and the human life 

*2) Physicians in the present day context*

Today we have largest number of physicians in the world 

Today we also have the most sophisticated facilities to treat human sickness 

This shows that is a sharp growth in sickness and health issues

Even though there are high tech facilities to treat the sicknesses, yet people suffer a lot from various sicknesses. 

*3) Without physician human beings can't exist*

Since sickness is the part of human nature we can't survive without physicians 

There is no time in history where humanity is without sickness. Sickness and human nature always go together. It can't be separated. 

So if someone says that human nature is without any sickness, it must be joke. 

*4) Like physician Human beings can't survive without a God*

Human being can't survive without God, because we are all spiritually sick and we need a divine physician. 

God is our divine physician. So as long as this sick spiritual self exists, we need  the Divine healer who is able to heal our sickness. 

So there is a close relationship between God and human beings. 

*5) Jesus came only to be with the sick and sinners*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the scene of Jesus being with the sinners, and  tax collectors. 

Pharisees accused Him for being with the sinners. In this context Jesus says *“Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.*

So Jesus says that he has come to remain with sinners 

*6) To believe one is always healthy is foolish*

Pharisees thought they were always healthy. But it is foolishness to have such conclusions. 

Like wise one can't conclude that ones spiritual health is always perfect. Such an idea does not exist in this world. 

So one needs the divine physician - Jesus 

*7) How about my life?* 

Do I feel the need of divine physician in my life? 

Which are the areas, where I act like Pharisees, that is, no need of a physician? 

Do I believe that my spiritual and physical self is all the time wounded and only a divine healer can set it right? 

Who is my physician? Jesus? Wordly things? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Four men who are needed to carry my paralytic self to Jesus

Gospel Thoughts*

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 2:1-12*

*FIRST READING 1 Sm 8:4-7, 10-22a*

*Four men who are needed to carry my paralytic self to Jesus*

*1) Four men and the Paralytic man*

The Gospel narrates a beautiful incident of Four men bringing a paralytic man to Jesus 

The paralytic man was unable to move, that's why these four men offered their services to carry the man to be brought to Jesus 

We must appreciate the Four men for their generosity and goodwill in bringing the paralytic to Jesus 

*2) All of us a paralytic persons*

Paralysis is a disease which makes a person unable to function. 

Even in Christian life we are affected with varieties of paralysis in our spiritual life 

The paralysis of sin, the paralysis of anger, pride, jealousy, arrogance, revenge, hatred, selfishness, pleasure, etc 

The paralysis of power, money, wealth, position, authority, name, desire for wordly things 

Because of this type of paralysis we are unable to function properly in our spiritual life 

So we need some men to carry us to Jesus. If so who are this men in our life 

*3) The various men who are needed to carry our paralysed  self to Jesus*

*A) The Sacrament of Reconciliation*

One of the important sacrament which will carry our paralysed self to Jesus 

By ourselves we are unable to go to Jesus. But through the sacrament of reconciliation we can definitely go to Jesus 

*B) The Sacrament of Eucharistic*

Eucharist is the highest form of prayer 

It is a safest vehicle which takes us to Jesus and to God experience

It is a sacrament which heals our paralysed self 

*C) Personal Prayer*

Along with prayer, personal prayer is very much necessary to heal our wounded self 

Reading of the word of God, meditation on it, and spending time in prayer is very much necessary

*D) Good Works in life*

St James says *faith without works is dead* James 2:26

Doing good work should be our attitude which should flow from our prayer life, and inspired by other sacraments. 

So all the Good works which are done for the love of the neighbour, will take our paralysed self to Jesus 

*4) How about my Life?*

First of all I need to realise the condition of my paralysed spiritual self 

Secondly  I must desire to go to Jesus by all means 

Thirdly I must be ready to take the help of these above four spiritual men to carry my paralysed spiritual self to Jesus 

*Am I ready for this?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Hidden Christ in the Leper

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 1:40-45*

*FIRST READING - 1 Sm 4:1-11*

*The Hidden Christ in the Leper*

*1) The Genuine need of the Leper*

We can imagine the misery and the anxiety of the Leper during the time of Jesus 

This leper also was suffering from such a anxiety and fear and finally comes to Jesus for the Healing 

The only thing that the leper needed at this situation is a powerful healing from Jesus or a powerful miracle for  healing 

*2) What would have been the Prayer of the Leper?*

The leper would have said, Jesus please heal me. I am suffering from this leprosy. 

I can face the society. It is terrible for me to live my life. I can't even live in my family 

So please heal me. This is my genuine prayer and genuine need in my life 

*3) The Real prayer of the Leper*

Even though he had so much desire for healing, he gives the preference  to God's will  than his own will 

His prayer was *If you wish, you can make me clean*

There is something hidden and special in this prayer 

He accepts God's will in getting rid of his leprosy. 

*4) Prayer of Jesus in the Gethsemane*

The lepers prayer was similar to Jesus' prayer in the Gethsemane

Jesus prayed *"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”* Luke 22:42

This prayer of Jesus is seen in the lepers prayer. 

So we can say that there is a hidden Christ in the Leper, who was active, when he made a genuine prayer for healing 

*5) What about the Hidden Christ in my Life?*

All of us who are the followers of Jesus, carry a hidden Christ within ourselves 

How active this hidden  Christ in my life? Or do I create an possible atmosphere to act my Hidden Christ in life's situation? 

*6) Genuine prayers are always inspired by Hidden Christ in us*

Like the leper we can always check our prayer 

A genuine prayer, in any situation will have the humility to accept God's will than our own will 

*If So what is the Spirit of my Prayer?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Everyone is looking for you - How do I look at this situation in my Life

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 1:29-39*

*First Reading - 1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20*

*Everyone is looking for you - How do I look at this situation in my Life*

*1) People's Search for Jesus*

When Jesus entered the house of Peter's mother in laws house, He found that Peter's mother in law was down with fever. So He cured her 

Then Jesus involved himself in curing many sick people, people with evil spirits and those who were possessed 

So people really felt blessed because of the miracles happened and they were thrilled 

So naturally people will look for such persons who works miracles in life 

So they started to search for Jesus 

*2) Jesus at Prayer*

After curing the sick people, next day early in the Morning Jesus went to a deserted place to pray 

*Mean time people were in search of Jesus*

This also means that the people didn't understand the importance of prayer 

They wanted a favour from Jesus but were not able to realise the need and power of Prayer 

So every one started to look for him for the sake of getting more favours and benefits

*3) Normal Feeling when every one is looking for someone*

The person feels He/she is very important 

Its because of great power and authority in oneself - people may look for some one 

The person may feel with out me nothing can work

The person may take advantage of such situation also 

The person may not feel to move out from such a cozy atmosphere

*4) Jesus moves out from "Every one is looking for u situation"*

Even though Jesus knew that it was a nice place for his ministry, He simply moves out from that place 

The simple argument which Jesus gives for this is *Others also needs His service*

So he moves out from that place and goes to Galilee

*5) Good has to be shared in different places*

Good work has to be done everywhere and it should not be restricted to one area 

Because all are people of God and all have the right to enjoy the Goodness of God 

So it is very important to spread the Fragrance of goodness everywhere

*6) My life and my attitude*

How do I respond to the situation *'Everyone is looking for you'*

Do I take the advantage of such situations?

Is my good works concentrated on only few persons or only to my family? 

How about going to the periphery? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do I have unclean Spirit within Myself?

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mark 1:21-28*

*FIRST READING 1 Sm 1:9-20*

*Do I have unclean Spirit within Myself?*

*1) Man with an Unclean Spirit*

The Gospel mentions a person, who is having an unclean  Spirit

Interestingly this man with an unclean spirit was found in the Synagogue. 

Usually, synagogue is a holy place, meant for prayer. So even in such a place, man with an unclean spirit means, the unclean spirit can enter even to the holy place  and also in the life of Holy Person. 

So one needs to be very careful to find out, whether I possess any unclean spirit, even if I think that I am holy person. 

*2) The various aspects of Unclean Spirit in our lives*

At times we can find so many types of unclean spirit in our Life. For example

The unclean spirit of *Anger*

The unclean spirit of *Pride*

The unclean spirit of *Selfishness*

The unclean spirit of *jealousy*

The unclean spirit of *Gossip*

The unclean spirit of *Revenge*

The unclean spirit of *Cheating*

The unclean spirit of *Division*

The unclean spirit of *ingratitude*

The unclean spirit of *Hatred*

The unclean spirit of *Bodily pleasure*

The unclean spirit of *Desire for wordly Things*

*3) Presenting oneself before Jesus is very important*

The man with an unclean spirit had an encounter with Jesus 

We can see the helplessness of the Unclean spirit  before the Lord

No unclean spirit can work in us when there is a presence of Jesus 

If So, how strong the presence of Jesus in me??

*4) The mission of Jesus and the Unclean Spirit*

Primarily the mission of Jesus is the Fight anagist these unclean spirit. 

Its a on going fight which has to be continued by the followers of Jesus 

So am I fighting against these unclean spirits in my life and in my surroundings? 

*How do I deal with the unclean spirit 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*

The Various Ways of Believing in the Gospel

Gospel Thoughts

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

*GOSPEL -  Mk 1:14-20*

*FIRST READING - 1 Sam 1:1-8*

*The Various Ways of Believing in the Gospel*

*1) Jesus Says "Repent and Believe in the Gospel*

Jesus starts His preaching with these Words 

Since the time is Fulfilled and the Kingdom of God is at Hand, one Should repent and Believe in the Good news in order to enter in the Kingdom of God. 

So How to believe in the Gospel? What are the various ways through which we can believe in the Gospel?

*2) The Various ways of Believing in the Gospel*

*Accepting Jesus as the Lord and Master* This is one of the best ways of believing in the Gospel

*Forgiveness* Jesus not only preached forgiveness but also practiced it. The Gospel speaks about forgiveness in number of places. One who practices the virtue of forgiveness, is definitely believes in the Gospel

*Service* Jesus served in every situation and without making any discrimination of caste and creed. One who serves in a selfless way, believes in the Gospel. 

*Sacrifice* This is at the centre of Jesus and in the Gospel. Only those who believe in the Gospel can practice this virtue 

*Suffering* suffering has a special value in the life if Jesus and in the Gospel. One who believes in the Gospel can see meaning in the suffering and can face it for a noble cause 

*Love of the Enemies* Only Jesus speaks about it and the Gospel communicate it. In fact Jesus loved His enemies even from the Cross. One who loves his/her enemies is not only inspired by the Gospel, but also a strong sign that he/she believes in the Gospel

*3)  Do I believe in the Gospel?*

At the peripheral level all of us think that we believe in the Gospel. But a careful analysis of our own attitude will reveal a bitter truth that at times we are far from believing in the Gospel. 

Some example would be 

A person who refuses to forgive, in what ground he/she can say he/she believes in the Gospel? 

Like wise a person who is selfish in his/her attitude, jealous about others wellbeing, involved in gossip,  refuses to share God given gifts, runs away from responsibility and suffering, having a negative attitude towards life, does not appreciate any one, can't believe in the Gospel. 

One who lives contrary to the Gospel values can not believe inn the Gospel

*4) Believing in the Gospel in my Life*

As we reflect about the various ways of believing in the Gospel, what are the various ways which I practice in my life to prove that I believe in the Gospel? 

Do I really understand the meaning of *believing in the Gospel?*

How can I strengthen my belief in the Gospel?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Baptism of Fire

Gospel Thoughts*

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Baptism of the Lord*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 3:15-16, 21-22*

*FIRST READING - Is 42:1-4, 6-7*

*SECOND READING Acts 10:34-38*

*The Baptism of Fire*

*He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire*

*1) Why the Baptism of Fire*

First of all, Fire is an important element. Because Fire has some special characteristics, which help us understand the relevance of fire in the Baptism

First of all Fire burns 

Secondly fire transforms or changes 

Thirdly fire also gives light and dispels the darkness

Fire has the quality of destroying the unwanted things 

Fire gives the warmth 

In simple words, we can't live without fire 

*2) The Fire in the Baptism*

The fire in the Baptism has the following effects

Fire of Baptism burns all that unwanted things in ones life 

The fire of Baptism transforms the sins into Hominess

The fire of Baptism dispels the darkness of sin, anxiety, pride, worries and tensions 

The fire of Baptism, destroys all that is sinful and unwanted things

The fire of Baptism cleanses the impurity of original sin by burung it completely

The fire of Baptism, ultimately destroys all that is evil in us and gives helps us to grow in holiness 

*3) Various elements of the fire of Baptism*

The Fire of Love 

The fire of Sacrifice

The fire of service

The fire of humility

The fire of forgiveness

The fire of simplicity

The fire of genuineness

The fire of generosity

The fire of sharing 

The fire of smile

The fire of cheerfulness and gratitude

When the fire of Baptism, makes us to burn with these things all that is sinful in us is burnt and good things will grown. 

*4) Where is the Fire of Baptism in my life?*

When I was given the Baptism, I was Baptistied with the above aspects of the fire

But the question is, how is the condition of this Fire? 

Is it still burning in my life? 

Is it still working to destroy the bad things in me? 

Is it still inspiring me to practice the virtues of humility, sincerity, sharing and generosity?

Is the fire of Baptism still warm in me?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

John as the Best Man of Jesus the Bridegroom

Gospel Thoughts*

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Saturday after Epiphany*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 3:22-30*

*FIRST READING - 1 Jn 5:14-21*

*John as the Best Man of Jesus the Bridegroom*

*1) The Role of the Best Man*

The concept of Best man is familiar in the context of Marriage 

When there is a marriage, some one stands as the best man for the Bridegroom. 

The best man is the groom's right-hand man (or woman) at the wedding. Usually a close friend or relative, this person is asked to stand by the groom's side to support and assist in any way possible before and during the wedding.

*2) John as the Best man of Jesus*

*Best man* is one of the most suitable title to John. This is because 

John stood for Jesus and for His values in whatever way possible. 

John supported Jesus in whatever way possible 

John assisted Jesus in preaching and building the Kingdom of God

John prepared the best way for Jesus and for His mission 

John came and worked only the sake of bridegroom Jesus. He never lived with any other interest. 

*3) Apostles were the best men of Jesus*

The concept of *best man* started from Jesus' continues even today. 

After John, the Apostles became the best men for Jesus 

All the saints, martyrs, and good hearted people today shine like a best man of Jesus

Today we have been called to became the *Best men and women* of Jesus the bridegroom

*4) Am I ready to become the Best man of Jesus*

Today Jesus needs many young and energetic disciples as *best man*  of Jesus 

Best Man's responsibility, is to remain with the Bridegroom, listen to Him, and to support him in whatever way possible. 

Am I ready to become the best man of Jesus??

What are the hurdles and challenges to become the best man of Jesus??

What are the advantage of becoming the best man of Jesus??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Three important gestures in Genuine prayer

Gospel Thoughts

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Friday after Epiphany*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 5:12-16*

*FIRST READING - 1 Jn 5:5-13*

*Three important gestures in Genuine prayer*

*1) The Man with full of Leprosy*

In today's Gospel we come across, a man with full of leprosy. 

Since he was full of leprosy, his appearance was very scary and ugly 

But this leper teaches us a great lesson about, how to make a genuine prayer 

*2) Three important gestures in genuine prayer*

*A) Falling prostrste before the Lord*

Falling prostrate - is a genuine and total surrender before the Lord 

It is a sign of highest humility

It is a sign of total helplessness

This gesture is very much necessary for the genuine prayer

*B) Pleading with the Lord*

The leper pleased with the Lord to cure him 

Pleading is also one of the important gestures involved in genuine prayer 

*C) Total acceptance of God's will* 

*If you wish* are the words of the leper 

He surrenders himself totally, pleads with Jesus with folded hands but finally accepts Gods will in getting the favour from the Lord

*Thy will be done* was the  expression of his heart. 

This type of attitude is very important in prayer 

*3) How do I pray?*

Is my prayer includes all these genuine attitude while praying? 

How do I look the concept of prayer? Is it demand or a genuine request from my part? 

God answers those prayers which involve the above steps immediately

*What is the effect of my prayer?*

*4)

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Scroll is handed over to me : Read it

Gospel Thoughts*

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Thursday after Epiphany*

*GOSPEL -   Lk 4:14-22*

*FIRST READING - 1 Jn 4:19-5:4*

*The Scroll is handed over to me : Read it*

*1) The Scroll was given to Jesus*

As Jesus stood up to read the Scriptures, the Scroll of Isaiah was given to Him 

He read it very meaningfully, and gave back the Scroll. After reading it, Jesus told them that the scripture was speaking about His call and Mission 

So the words from the scroll had a special reference to Jesus' life and Mission

*2) The Same scroll is given to me*

The same scroll which was given to Jesus is given to me. How do I read it? 

Am I able to insert myself into the passage? 

Will I able to fit myself into the frame work of the scroll? 

Can I make an effort to read my life, to the frame work of the scroll? 

Will my self suit to the framework of the Scroll or not?

*3) Important highlights of the passage in the Scroll*

*God's Spirit* God's spirit is given to us in Baptism and in Confirmation. All of us are filled with the Holy Spirit

*We are anointed people* We are anointed through the Sacrament of Baptism, Confirmation, and anointing of  the Sick. Anointed people are sacred and Holy People 

*Proclamation of the GoodNews* We are suppose to speak Good and Good News of the Lord. Never to speak ill about others and never to engage in gossip. 

*Liberty to the Captives* The main work of the followers of Jesus is to  Liberate from the Slavery.

First of all liberate oneself from the slavery of sin and our own weakness. 

Secondly Liberate also others from shortcomings.  

*Sight to the Blind* Jesus calls us as You are the light of the World

Jesus has called us to become the light and not darkness. 

Is my life a reflection of Light or darkness?? 

*No oppression* Oppression makes innocent people to suffer for some one else's fault 

Never to oppress people for any reason. 

Instead of oppression, give them Freedom and liberty. 

The above factors are the important aspects of the passage from the Scroll

*4) My life and the above frame work*

The frame work of the Scroll is very clear 

There are many types of nails which have been used to prepare a *frame*. But the question is does this frame suit to my life 

The frame in the Scroll shows the purpose and mission of our life 

If so, what is the future plan of my life?

Will I  be able to practice these  various virtues, in my life. 

How do I read the scroll?*

Am I  an insider to the Scroll or an Spector??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' getting into the boat and calming of the Situation

Gospel Thoughts

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Wednesday after Epiphany*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 6:45-52*

*FIRST READING - 1 Jn 5:11-18*

*Jesus' getting into the boat and calming of the Situation*

*1) Disciples in the boat with Trouble*

After they had finished their grand meal with Jesus, the disciples  started their journey, to cross to the other side. 

When they started their journey, they were all alone and Jesus was not with them 

As they proceeded their journey in the sea, they found difficult to row the boat, because the wind was against them 

So the disciples had real struggle to proceed with their journey

*2) The entry of Jesus into the boat*

As Jesus saw the struggle of the disciples, He came near to them and got into the boat. 

As soon as Jesus entered the boat, the wind died down and there was a perfect calmness in the sea and as well as in the House 

The entry of Jesus made a total difference in the the Boat

*3) The need of Jesus' entry into the boat*

As we know from the Gospel, the entry of Jesus into the boat was necessary, because, 

It gave them a moral courage 

It gave them a chance to  experience, Jesus very closely 

It was necessary to continue their journey 

It was necessary to calm the entire situation

It was necessary to make know to the entire world, the miracle power of Jesus 

It was necessary to control the external forces, which at times  destroy our life or create tension or anxiety in life

*4) The boat of my Life*

Our life is like a boat in the sea. All of us are trying to row the boat of our life. 

At times this boat of life faces the terrible crisis, and struggles

At times we may feel that our boat of life has totally lost its control 

At times the boat of life may be controlled by external forces which ultimately show a direction, which may be totally wrong. 

*5) Boat of my life & the external forces which control it*

We need to find out the details of the external forces which lead us away from the main goal of our life 

External forces like, the of  jealousy, the wind of pride, the wind of revenge, the wind of anger, the wind of indifference, the wind of selfishness, the wind of division and wind of various sins 

The boat of life, which is tossed by this above mentioned waves struggles  a lot. Therefore it needs the assistance of Jesus 

*6) Am I ready to welcome Jesus into the boat of my life?*

Disciples  welcomed Jesus into their boat, when they were struggling

Jesus entered the boat, and there was perfect calmness

 Am I ready to welcome Jesus into my boat of life? 

The moment Jesus enetres the  boat of our  life, the whole situation changes for the better and we feel happy about the same

So are we ready welcome Jesus into my  boat of life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How many loaves do you have? Go and see.

Gospel Thoughts

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Tuesday After Epiphany*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 6:34*

*FIRST READING - 1 Jn 4:7-10*

*How many loaves do you have? Go and see.*

*1) Do I think that my life is a deserted place?*

When people needed something to eat and drink, the disciples said, *This is a deserted place*

Deserted place is a situation, where no one goes and no one gets any benefit from such a place 

No one likes the deserted place and no one likes to remain in deserted place 

Is my life a deserted place when it comes to help some one? 

*2) Do I feel that it is already very late to help someone?*

The disciples felt that it is already very late to help the followers of Christ

It is said *It's never too late for a new beginning in your life*

So there is no situation in life to feel that it is too late to begin something which is very useful for the self and for the other.

*3) The need for the Search*

When the disciples said that the place where they are is a deserted place and it is already very late to provide something for the followers of Christ, Jesus said them to *search* for the things what they have in themselves

As a result they began a search in and around them in a deserted place and in a situation where it is already very late to help

To their surprise as a result of their search they found *Five loaves and two fish.*

This clearly shows that even in a deserted place and in a situation where it is very late to help, there will be something, which can motivate us to reach out someone.

*4) Jesus says "Go and see". Now where to Go?*

Going and seeing in this episode becomes a twisting point of the entire situation. 

Because they went and searched, they found out something, and that something became very important thing in the hands of Jesus 

Today I need to *go and see* within my life. If I feel that my life is a deserted place and if I think it is very late to help someone, go back to your life and search, whether what I feel is right or wrong 

The search will always help us to find new alternatives which will show us that our life is not a deserted place and it is never very late to help someone  

*5) Five loaves and two fish in the Hands of Jesus*

The disciples gave whatever they found out after their search. 

They gave Five  loaves and two fish and Jesus worked miracle out of it. 

The moment I hand over whatever I find from my life, Jesus works miracles on it 

So we need to search in our life to find out the five loaves and two fish, in order to witness miracles in our life

*Am I ready to search at least to find out five loaves and two fish 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*