With what plans we approach Jesus?

Gospel Thoughts

*Lenten Season : C Cycle : Second Week: 

*GOSPEL -  Mt 20:17-28*

*FIRST READING - Jer 18:18-20*

*With what plans we approach Jesus?*

*1) The approach of the mother of the sons of Zebedee*

The Gospel shows us that this mother approached Jesus with a special plan 

A plan not for her sake, but for the sake of her Sons. 

In summary we can say that, the plan of this mother is to get some powerful positions, in the Kingdom of Jesus

It appears that, this mother had very selfish plan when she approached Jesus 

*2) The Approach of diffent people in the Gospels*

Ten lepers approached Jesus with the intention of healing from the leprosy, and they were healed 

Zacchaeus approached Jesus with the intention of knowing Him and to experience Him. As a result he got converted from his old life 

Jairus approached Jesus with the intention of saving life. And life was restored 

Woman with hemorrhage approached Jesus to get rid from her sickness, and she was healed 

Sick people approached Jesus for healing and they were healed 

Children approached Jesus for blessing, and they were blessed 

*3) The approach of Judas*

We also come across the approach of Judas to Jesus 

Judas approached Jesus in order to betray Him 

He approached as a friend but with the intention of betraying Jesus 

The approach of Judas was mixed with the greed for money. So he was ready to betray Jesus 

*4) What about my approach?*

All of us approach Jesus at some time or the other. 

Now the question is, why do I approach Jesus? Or what is the content of my approach to Jesus?

We can see our approach from two diffent perspectives. 

*Positive perspective*

We approach Jesus to learn, how to pray, how to be humble and simple in life, to learn the various values like love, sacrifice, forgiveness, sharing, service, and so on 

*Negative perspective*

*We approach Jesus with selfish motives*

To make us great in the world 

To get power, position, wealth, money, influence, and other wordly things 

Many approach Jesus with these selfish interests

*5) Lent and my approach*

Lent is a special time to approach Jesus for some special things 

Let our approach be for the following things during this lent 

To learn how to forgive others

To learn the value of service and generosity

To realise the power and importance of prayer

To practice the value simplicity, service, conversion of heart and mind etc 

*So what is my ultimate approach when I go to meet Jesus?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*