Importance of the Visit

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Seventh Week - Tuesday*

*Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary*

*Importance of the Visit*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 1:39–56*

*FIRST READING - Zep 3:14–18a [or Rom 12:9–16]*

*1) Mary's Visit to Elizabeth*

This is the main theme of today's feast and also of the Gospel Reading 

Since this feast and Gospel reading is highlighting the importance of visit, it is very important to reflect about Mary's visit to Elizabeth

*2) Various things which happened because of Mary's Visit to Elizabeth*

*A)God Experience* Elizabeth was filled with Holy Spirit. This happened because of Mary's visit. So visits have the power to bring about a God experience

*B) Blessings to the Infant* Mary's visit resulted in divine blessings to the Child, who was in Elizabeth's womb. 

*C) Speaks well about the Person* Mary's visit to Elizabeth resulted in speaking high about Mary, by Elizabeth. 

She said *Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.*

*D) The Magnificat* we can also very well say that, the great Magnificat was the result of Mary's visit to Elizabeth. 

*3) Visit brings about a great Change*

We see this fact in Mary's visit to Elizabeth

The Change happens when both realised that it was God's, great intervention, to carrying out His mission 

There have been, lots of Changes, which happened only because of the visit to Elizabeth

*4) Visits strengthens the Relationship*

Visits are the only way to build a genuine relationship and known the other 

The more we visit, the more we become human beings and the visits become more meaningful to us 

Friendship starts with visits, strengthens by visits, remains forever through the Visits 

*5) Visits revealed God's plan*

The visit was an context to know God's plan to us 

Both Mary and Elizabeth, realised their role in the salvific plan i me the context of this great visit 

Since this visit was inspired by Heavenly Father, this visit has the divine element in it 

*6) How about my life and Visits?*

Mary visited Elizabeth, and we know that this visit brought about a great Change in those who follow Jesus

How far do i give importance to the visits 

How do I look at the concept of Visit in my life?

What are the good things which have happened, because of the Visits?

How do I approach visits, in my day today life?

Visits are the great events in our lives, which give us a great inspiration.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

In the World you will have Trouble

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Seventh Week - Monday*

*In the World you will have Trouble*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:29-33*

*FIRST READING - Acts 19:1-8*

*1) World is Full of Troubles*

Jesus says that in the world you will have Troubles 

In fact this is our life experience that there are many troubles which we face in our daily lives 

In other words there are many troubles in the world and we can't escape from these troubles in our day today life 

*2) Various troubles in the World*

*First of all the trouble of temptation*

Jesus also had this trouble, but He over came from this trouble. As a human beings we too have the trouble with temptations.

*Sickness* another important trouble we have about our health. Many times we are face with the trouble of Sickness

*Trouble of bad Habits* Many are struggling from this trouble. 

There are varities of bad habits in our life, and we struggle from this struggle

*Troubles of our Weakness* 

All of us have many weaknesses in our life. 

Weaknesses like, anger, Pride, jealousy, gossiping, revenge, selfishness, arrogance, greed, etc. These things in our life create lot of troubles for us 

Troubles arising out of, fear, anxiety, fear of failure, and other crisis in  life 

*3) Troubles in the World create suffering*

All the troubles arising from the above mentioned things finally create sufferings in our life 

Because of this suffering in our life, we become weak in our faith life, in our commitments, in our mission and in our focus

But there is no way that we can avoid all these things in our lives 

*4) Way out is to conquer them*

One can't avoid troubles in ones life 

The only best way to slove them is to face them. 

When we face them we are able to conquer them. But when we run away from the trouble or escape from the trouble, they take control of our life 

So the best way to over come is to face them and challenge them 

*5) Am I ready to face the Troubles?*

As we already know that there are many troubles in the world, it is necessary to work out the strategy to face them in our life 

Either we face and conquer the troubles 

Or we try to escape and avoid the troubles, which will create more troubles. 

What is my mind? 

How do I face the troubles of my life??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The great Truths about Ascension

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Seventh Week*

 

*The Ascension of the Lord*

*The great Truths about Ascension*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 24:46-53*

*FIRST READING - Acts 1:1-11*

*SECOND READING Eph 1:17-23 or Heb 9:24-28; 10:19-23*

*1) There is Heaven*

First of all the great feast of Ascension, reveals the great fact about the Heaven 

Since Jesus as ascended to heaven, its very clear that there is Heaven and Jesus has gone to heaven 

To all those who donut about the existence of Heaven, this event becomes a powerful symbol to prove the existence of Heaven 

*2) There is a place in Heaven for everyone*

During the public ministry of Jesus, he has spoken many times about the Heaven 

In John 14:2-3 Jesus speaks about the Heaven *In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you*

*And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.*

This explanation of Jesus clearly reveals that there is a place i heaven for every one 

*3) Going to heaven is a joyful event*

In the Gospel of the day, we see that Jesus ascends to heaven 

*As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven. They did him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy,*

We see the disciples who were very joyful, when Jesus went up to heaven. 

So going to heaven is a joyful event and not a sad event 

*4) Heaven is always a place of Blessing*

We see that, Jesus is blessing His disciples, as He parted from them 

The blessing was the last link between Jesus and his disciples. 

We still believe that, Jesus who has gone to heaven, is sitting at the right hand of Father, is blessing His people at all times 

So heaven is always connected with, blessing and blessings only 

*5) Jesus is calling all of us into Heaven*

Jesus who has come from heaven and who has gone to heaven has prepared a place for us 

He is inviting all of us into heaven, in order to be with Him 

It is our duty to listen to his call, and to co-operate with him, in our journey towards heaven 

*6) We need the assistance to go to Heaven*

Only Jesus who has come from heaven, and who has gone to heaven can help us in our journey towards heaven 

On our own efforts we can't go to heaven. We need the assistance of Jesus in this journey. 

*“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.* John 14:6

*7) Jesus is the ladder to go to heaven*

Something which is high from us, can not be claimed unless we have a ladder for the same 

In our journey towards heaven, Jesus becomes a ladder for us to claim and to reach to heaven. 

*8) The Experience of Heaven*

While living on the earth we can experience what heaven is like 

A family where there is peace, forgiveness, adjustment, commitment, sacrifice, love is nothing but a place of heaven

When we do our duty sincerely without any reward, we feel a kind of happiness in life. That itself is heaven in our life 

After our sincere hardwork, when we achieve something in life, we feel joyful. Such an experience is called heaven in our lives. 

*9) We are called to create heaven in this earth*

This is the primary purpose of our life. 

If so, am I ready to create heaven in my life and in my surroundings? 

What can I do to create heaven in my family? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

A divine call to us to become like Apollo in our Day today life

.https://gospelthoughtsdaily.blogspot.com/

*Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : Sixth Week - Saturday*

*A divine call to us to become like Apollo in our Day today life*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:23b-28*

*FIRST READING - Acts 18:23-28*

*1) Apollo, A Jew from Alexandria*

In Biblical Names the meaning of the name Apollos is: One who destroys; destroyer.

The person *Apollo* comes in the first reading, that is in the Acts of the Apostles

There are some qualities which are mentioned about Apollo, in today's first reading 

*2) Apollo was a learned man*

He had deep knowledge about the Scriptures

He was full of Spirit, and powerfully spoke and taught about Jesus 

He was deeply instructed in the Way of the Lord

He had the deep knowledge about the Baptism of the Lord

*3) He Spoke bodly in the Synagogue*

He not only had deep knowledge about Jesus, about Scriptures and about Jesus' teaching, but he proclaimed bodly about the Same in the Synagogue

Being bold is very important to proclaim the Gospel. Since he was courageous person, and was ready to lay down his life, he proclaimed bodly about Jesus, in the midst of persecution

So courage is a great quality, in proclaiming the Gospel.

*4) Apollo means Destroyer*

According to the meaning of His name, the person of Apollo became a powerful tool in the hands of Jesus to destroy many things 

He destroyed the wrong teachings through the correct teaching about the Scriptures and the New Way of Life 

He destroyed, the arrogance and Hypocrisy of those Jews, who would not accept Jesus and didn't allow others to accept Jesus

He destroyed the fear, confusion, inability of people, and lack of confidence in accepting Jesus and the New Way of Life 

He destroyed the Power of evil, in Building the Kingdom of God

*5) Apollo is an Model for us*

The person of Apollo is a great example for us in every aspect 

In leaning about Scriptures

In knowing more about Jesus 

In proclaiming Jesus without fear 

In using the skills and talents for spreading the Kingdom of God

In offering oneself for the sake of the Kingdom of God

In catechising people about Jesus 

*6)  Am I Ready to Follow Jesus through Apollo?*

What qualities do i posses as that of Apollo in my life? 

In what areas of my life, Apollo inspires me? 

Am I ready to adopt the methodology of Apollo 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*

How to pray in the Name of Jesus

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Sixth Week - Friday*

*How to pray in the Name of Jesus*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:16-20*

*FIRST READING - Acts 18:1-8 or Acts 1:1-11*

*1)  The Name of Jesus*

The name Jesus means *God saves*

That is why we call Jesus as saviour. Saviour is the one who saves us from something

Jesus is the saviour who saved us from the slavery of sin, who saved us from eternal death and who us from Satan's temptations 

So the name Jesus means *God Saves* is very much applicable to us and Jesus really saves us from everything and He is our saviour

*2) The Power of the Name of Jesus*

Jesus name is very powerful. 

In the Acts of the apostles we see that Peter is using the name of Jesus to heal a crippled person *Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”* Acts 3:6

*The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”* Luke 10:17.

So it is very clear that the name of Jesus is very powerful and one can heal with Jesus' name

*3) How to Pray by using the name of Jesus*

Jesus has taught many things to us. 

When we believe everything that Jesus has taught, we pray in the name of Jesus 

Using the name of Jesus means, being with Jesus when we pray. It shows 100% concentration on what we pray 

Using the name of Jesus means, accepting everything, especially the good things and suffering in an equal way 

Using the name of Jesus means praying like Jesus, especially when Jesus prayed at the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus said, *thy will be done*

*4) Praying in the name of Jesus means, living the message of Jesus*

Praying in the name of Jesus does not means only through lips. We can't restrict this particular way of praying only through the words

But the real meaning of praying in the name of Jesus means, living the message of Jesus in our day today life 

So the moment we live the message of Jesus we put into practice what we pray in the name of Jesus 

Usually when we pray in the name of Jesus, these are the things we pray 

Grace to forgive, to remain humble, to serve, to love, to be sincere, to face the challenges of life, grace to suffer patiently etc 

So the moment we live these values we put into practice what we pray in the name of Jesus 

So praying in the name of Jesus means, living the values of Jesus 

*5) Am I ready to pray in the name of Jesus and live the name of Jesus?*

Living the name of Jesus is very important. 

Christian spirit does not remain only in praying in the name of Jesus, but living in the name of Jesus 

If I am ready to put into practice what we pray then the name of Jesus works in our life. 

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*

Are u discussing with one another what I said

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Sixth Week - Thursday*

*Are u discussing with one another what I said*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:16-20*

*FIRST READING - Acts 18:1-8 or Acts 1:1-11*

*1) An important question*

In today's Gospel Jesus is asking this question to his disciples

This question is important because it initiates some important matter, which has deep relevance to our Spiritual life 

It also has relevance to our daily life and also to daily activities. 

So this becomes important question to our life 

*2) What is our Discussion?*

This question of Jesus also makes us to reflect about what is my daily discussion?

Everyday we discuss lot of issues in our lives. What are these topics for our discussion? 

Are we discuss lot of issues which concern only this worldly life and worldly things? 

Is it our discussion on power, money, wealth and influence? Or something else? 

*3) The topics which need discussion in our Life*

The concept of forgiveness and reconciliation

The concept of Service 

The concept of humility

The concept of sincerity

The concept of love and sacrifice

The concept of generosity 

We need to discuss these things in our daily lives to know the importance of it 

*4) Gospel Values*

Apart from these things we need to discuss the Gospel values and the things found in the Bible 

Are we discussing enough about the Biblical values in our daily lives?

Good discussions always helps us to know better about holy things and bible in detail 

Am I ready to discuss what Jesus has taught in our lives??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We have The Spirit of Truth in Us

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Sixth Week - Wednesday*

*We have The Spirit of Truth in Us*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:12-15*

*FIRST READING - Acts 17:15, 22-18:1*

*1) Jesus Speaks about the Spirit of Truth*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the Spirit of Truth 

After the departure of Jesus, as He promised that He will send a Advocate, today Jesus tells us what the Advocate will do to us. 

*2) The Advocate - The Spirit of Truth*

First of all Jesus tells us that the Advocate is the Spirit of Truth

Advocate and the Spirit of Truth should always go together. 

Since Advocate is the one Who defends us, who fights for us, His position should base on Truth and not on Falsehood. 

So here is an Advocate who, fights for us, only based on Truth and nothing else 

*2) The Spirit of Truth, Teaches us Everything*

This Spirit of Truth, teaches all the things which Jesus has already taught us. 

Secondly He also reminds us all the things which Jesus has taught us 

Since Jesus is the Truth and Life, all the things which are taught by Jesus nothing but Truth itself. That is why whatever taught or reminded by the Spirit is nothing but the Truth itself 

*3)  Our Life and the Spirit of Truth*

Christian life is always accompanied by the Spirit of Truth. 

At Baptism we receive this Spirit of Truth, who make us the sincere Children of our heavenly Father

Since the Christian life is always accompanied by the Celebration of the sacraments at different phases of our life, the Spirit of Truth is always given to us 

Infact we are filled with the Spirit of Truth. So it is a call for us to become truthful person 

*4) My life and Truth*

One of the commandments tells us  about being truthful. 

*Thou Shall not bear false witness* forbids: “1. Speaking falsely in any matter, lying, and any way devising and designing to deceive our neighbour. 2. Speaking unjustly against our neighbour, to the prejudice of his reputation"

So we have the duty to be truthful in whatever we do in our life. 

In this regard the The Spirit of Truth will guide us and inspires us to become truthful 

But the question is how far I am truthful in life? 

How far do i allow the Spirit of Truth to work i me? 

How far the Spirit of Truth controls my life and makes me to become truthful?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

All of us will have to go back to the One who has sent us

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Sixth Week - Tuesday*

*All of us will have to go back to the One who has sent us*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 16:5-11*

*FIRST READING - Acts 16:22-34*

*1) Now I am going to the one who sent me*

This is what Jesus says in today's Gospel. 

As we know that Jesus has come from the Father, and after accomplishing His mission, now Jesus is ready to go back to the One who has sent Him 

From this, it is very clear that, this world is a temporary place where he proclaimed the Kingdom of God, and now he is ready to go back 

This also shows that the origin and destiny of Jesus is not this world but outside this world. 

*2) Like Jesus all of us will have to go back*

Like Jesus we too are here only for a short period of time 

Since we are not from this world, we don't belong to this world. We have come from above like Jesus, and when we accomplish our mission we will have to go back to the one who has sent us 

From our faith, we know that all of us have come from the Heavenly Father, and finally we will have to go back to the Father 

*3) Blessed is the one Who remembers this fact*

Many people when they live in this world, get addicted to many of the Worldly things. As a result they think that the world is everything

Those people who are immersed in the wordly things, forget that they have to go back to the one who has sent them 

Those who forget this fact, their life becomes a desaster at the end 

One who remembers this fact, makes him/her to live a life which is worthy of going back to the Father 

Therefore remembering the fact that one has to go back to the one who has sent, brings a lot a change and life becomes meaningful and joyful 

*4) Jesus is the way to go back to the Father*

Jesus Himself has said that *I am the Way* Unless one goes through this way, one can't reach the Father 

In our Journey towards the Heavenly Father, the teachings of Jesus, the Gospel values and holy life is very much needed 

One who follows Jesus and His teaching, is definitely on the right path, which leads to the Father 

So Jesus is our Hope and destiny. 

*5) Have I prepared enough to go back to the Father?*

First of all we need to reflect whether I know or realise that finally I have to go back to the one who has sent me?

Secondly, what are the ways through which I prepare myself to go to the Father? 

Thirdly do i practice the various ways, which were taught by Jesus, which will help us in our journey back to the Father?

How far the Gospel values are helping me to prepare myself to go to the Father?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Holy Spirit as an Advocate

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Sixth Week - Monday*

*Holy Spirit as an Advocate*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:26-16:4a*

*FIRST READING - Acts 16:11-15*

*1) Importance of an Advocate in our Life*

Advocate is a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy.

In other words advocate is a person who puts a case on someone else's behalf and fights for the same

Advocate is necessary in our life, when there is a problem or when we are caught is certain situation. 

*2) What does the Advocate do?*

Advocate gives the guidance

Advocate fights on our behalf 

Advocate, shows us the right way

Advocate remains with us, until the matter is settled 

Advocate defends our position and saves us from further harm and danger 

*3) Jesus promises Holy Spirit as an Advocate*

The Gospel of the day makes it very clear that, Holy Spirit whom God wil send, acts as an Advocate in our life 

When we see the Holy Spirit as an Advocate, it is very clear that the Holy Spirit is the one who will fight for our sake, defends our position, gives us right direction, and fills us with Courage to fight a battle 

*4) What type of Fight Holy Spirit the Advocate does in our life?*

Since he is fighting from our side, he defends us against our opponents or enemies. If so who are our enmies? 

Usually we fight against the following things in our life. 

Fight against Satan 

Fight against Sin 

Fight against our bodily weakness

Fight against Pride 

Fight against jealousy

Fight against fear and anxiety

Fight against Doubt 

Fight against revenge

Fight against hatred 

Fight against gossip

Fight against pleasures of this world 

Fight against selfishness

Fight against laziness

In our day today life we are suppose to fight against these enemies of our life - a holy life 

So in this battle Holy Spirit works as an advocate and helps to fight against these evil powers, to live holy life 

*5) What is the Role of an Advocate in my life?*

Now Holy Spirit being the Advocate of my life, how far I cooperate, to fight against the evils spirits?

Am I convinced that Holy Spirit works an Advocate in my life? 

How far have I felt the support and encouragement, this Advocate the Holy Spirit? 

What are the areas which I need to offer to the Holy Spirit, the Advocate to get some guidance and to fight for it?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What are the important things Jesus has told us?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Sixth Week - Sunday*

*“I have told you this while I am with you.*

*What are the important things Jesus has told us?*

*GOSPEL - Jn 14:23-29*

*FIRST READING - Acts 15:1-2, 22-29*

*SECOND READING - Rev 21:10-14, 22-23*

*1) First of all Jesus tells us the power of the commandment of Love*

About this commandment Jesus has spoken very powerfully. 

Jesus says *Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.*

So the Love commandment, makes the Father to love us 

Love commandment makes the Father and Son to dwell in us, so that we are filled with heavenly grace 

*2) Secondly Jesus tells about the Power of the Holy Spirit*

The Gospel of the Day also speaks about the Holy Spirit. 

Jesus tells us that *Father will send the Holy Spirit in His name*

This Holy Spirit will help us in two things 

*Teaching* He will teach everything what Jesus has already taught us and also new things 

*Reminding* secondly the Holy Spirit will remind us everything what Jesus has already taught us

*3)  Thirdly Jesus tells us about the Power of Peace*

Jesus also speaks about the peace 

*Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.*

It is not the peace which world gives, but it is a peace which makes us face Evey challenges of life 

Therefore Jesus also tells us that *Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.*

Since peace is Jesus' treasure to us, there is no reason to be in trouble and to be in fear 

*4) Why Jesus has told these things when he was with us?*

The only one intention is that *so that when it happens you may believe it*

Those who follow Jesus' teaching there is no suspense what will happen tomorrow or after death 

Jesus is clear that we will be with the Father and Son, since they will come and live in us 

So it is our duty to listen to what Jesus says and to prepare ourselves to the things which will happen in near future. 

So that we are ready to face the challenges

*5) Am I ready to listen What Jesus says?*

From today's Gospel and from the entire Gospel, we understand what Jesus says to us. 

But the question is am I able to believe and to prepare myself for the same in my life? 

One who believes and prepares himself will not be in fear or his/her heart wil not be in trouble. 

So what about my stand??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The World Loves its own

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fifth Week - Saturday*

*The World Loves its own*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:18-21*

*FIRST READING - Acts 16:1-10*

*1) Great Revelation from Jesus*

In today's Gospel Jesus, prophetically tells us that, World Loves what it belong to it 

The World has its own standards, and world can love those things which come under that standards

World is unable to love, those things which come from above and which do not belong to this world 

*2) Jesus Does belong to this World*

Jesus has come from heaven and Jesus really belongs to heaven and not to this world 

Jesus came to this world to liberate this world and to save the mankind from the slavery of Sin 

Because of this world does not consider Jesus as its own. Rather the World considers Jesus as a great challenge to its standards

*3) The World hates Jesus*

The Gospel makes it clear that, this World hates Jesus and the world can't accept the values of Jesus 

Since it can't accept Jesus' values, the world sees Jesus as the one who challenges it's values, and therefore it hates Jesus 

*4) We don't belong to this world*

Jesus also makes it very clear that, the disciples of Jesus don't belong to this world 

We are in the World but don't belong to this world 

Therefore the World also hates the disciples of Jesus and it persecutes them 

*5) How to understand the World?*

The concept of World includes the Following things 

All the evil things, which could be the following

Revenge, 

Selfishness

Struggle for power

Struggle for authority

Struggle for money

Struggle for position

Struggle for name and fame

Struggle to prove who is greatest and powerful

Struggle for Worldly things 

Struggle for possessions 

Cheating, Pride, gossip, anger, etc 

Along with these evil things, all those people who follow and promote these evil things become the part of this world 

So world is nothing but the evil things and those people who practice these evil things for their selfish interests 

*6) Where do I belong?*

St Paul says, *We are the citizens of Heaven* Philippines 3:20

Do i feel that I am a citizen of heaven? 

Do i live my life, as if I am a citizen of Heaven? 

What are the things in me which make me to live according to the Worldly standards and not according to heavenly standards? 

What can I do still, to become the heavenly citizen??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

I no longer call you Slaves

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fifth Week -  Friday*

*I no longer call you Slaves - Am I still a slave?*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:12-17*

*FIRST READING - Acts 15:22-31*

*1) I no longer call you Slaves*

This is what Jesus says. None of us should be a slave of something, because Jesus has liberated us 

Once upon a time we were slaves, but with Jesus we are not slaves, but we are friends 

So there is a real challenge to all of us to get rid away from the slavery and to live as free brothers and sisters

*2) Who is a slave*

Slave is the one, who does not enjoy any freedom 

Slave has no freedom to choose something or to plan something

Slave has always depend on someone else 

Slave is controlled by an external force or by another powerful person 

Slave has no right to ask for anything

Slave can't decide anything either for himself or for others 

Ill  treatment, suffering, challenges, and humiliation are the part and parcel of Slavery 

*3) The possible slavery one can suffer in life*

The slavery of Sin 

The slavery of greed 

The slavery of pride

The slavery of selfishness

The slavery of revenge

The slavery of anger 

The slavery of authority

The slavery of Money

The slavery of position

The slavery of wealth 

The slavery of falsehood

The slavery of hypocrisy

The slavery of sensual pleasure

The slavery of hatred 

The slavery of jealousy

The slavery of external beauty 

The slavery of laziness

So these are the possible slavery one can experience in life and can still live as a slave  

*4) Various means to abolish the above slavery*

Deep faith in prayer

Personal prayer 

Practice of Gospel values like, forgiveness, service, generosity, love, humility, sincerity, etc 

Living a good life, helping one another in need, care and concern towards the needy may help us to abolish the slavery mentioned above 

*5) We are not chosen to remain as slaves*

The Gospel is clear that Jesus has chosen us and it is not that we have chosen Jesus 

God has chosen us to become his friends so that slavery can be abolished 

Our call is for something greater and for higher things and not to remain in slavery

So it is very important that we need to strive our level best to get rid of the slavery

Freeing our self from the slavery of this world is very important, and that is our purpose 

If so, am I ready to get rid of the slavery of these above things?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Divine call to remain in Jesus' Love

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fifth Week -  Thursday*

*Divine call to remain in Jesus' Love*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:9-11*

*FIRST READING - Acts 15:7-21*

*1) Love of Jesus*

When Jesus says *Remain in my love* two things are clear 

First of all, Jesus has already given His Love, which is unconditional love. 

Secondly he is telling us to keep up this love, in our day today life, so that we can grow in that love 

*2) Various Forms of Jesus' Love*

Jesus' Love could be seen in the following ways 

The sacrificial love 

The Forgiving Love 

The serving love 

The compassionate love 

The unconditional love 

The friendship love, laying down ones life for another, greatest love 

The Shepherding Love 

The Merciful Love 

The curing love

These are some of the aspects of Jesus' Love. One who is able to practice these things can remain in Jesus' Love

*3) How to remain in Jesus' Love*

In today's Gospel Jesus gives us a beautiful and a practical way through which one can remain in Jesus' love 

Jesus says *If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love*

So following faithfully all the commandments of the Lord will help us to remain in Jesus' love 

*4) What happens when one remains in Jesus' Love*

When we remain in the Love of Jesus, He says *my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete.*

So by remaining in Jesus' Love, one can experience the heavenly joy in his/her life 

*5) Benefits of remaining in Jesus' Love*

One will be able to live a good and holy life 

One will be able to practice the Gospel values in life 

One will be able to grow in spiritual life 

One will be able to understand God's plans in a better way 

One will be able to face all the challenges of life 

One will be able to live a life of simplicity, humility, generosity, and sincerity. 

One will be able to practice all the values of Jesus in His/Her life 

*6) Remaining in someone's love is the best thing in Life*

There is no best thing in life other than remaining in one's love

When one remains in Love, for such a person all things are possible and with Love one can achieve anything in life

Remaining in one's Love, makes life more beautiful and meaningful 

In such a case one remains in Jesus' Love, there is nothing else needed in Life 

Remaining in Jesus' Love could be considered as the best treasure in Life 

*7) Am I ready to remain in Jesus' Love?*

To answer this question one must understand the richness of Jesus' Love. 

Remaining in Jesus' Love would demand many things, if so  am I ready for the same?

What can I do to remain in Jesus' Love?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Wonderful lessons from Vine/Grapes

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fifth Week -   Wednesday*

*The Speciality of Vine/Grapes*

*Wonderful lessons from Vine/Grapes*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:1-8*

*FIRST READING - Acts 15:1-6*

*1) Grapes are always found in bunch*

We hardly see single grapes in the creeper. Some times there may be some situations where one may find single grapes. But most of the time, one finds grapes in bunch 

These grapes in bunch communicate the following lessons 

Importance of being together

Importance of unity 

Importance of the community spirit

Importance of beauty and attractiveness, while being together

The impression which creates in others, when they bound together in one thread 

*2) The Growth of the vine/grapes*

Most of the time we see that almost all grapes grow in same size. 

With regard to the size, there isn't any questions, whether some grow bigger and other small 

Being together does not affect their growth or their size. 

They grow in the normal size, as it is required. 

*3) A single branch keeps all the grapes together*

In a single bunch there may be 50 or 100 grapes. 

But the beauty of this bunch is that, all these grapes are kept together by a single branch, which appears to be weak

But that single branch or so called weak, creeper is no powerful, it never allows any grapes to separate from the branch

*4) There is a order and discipline in the unity*

All grapes are united, and kept together in a particular order or discipline. 

There is no chaos or confusion in their unity. Rather there is a beauty and order in which they are united together. 

Such order and discipline is necessary for a strong unity and for the strength. 

*5) No partiality in the Bunch*

All the grapes in the Bunch are equal. There is no partiality in the Bunch 

None of the grapes claim that one is the better than the other, or one is bigger than the other 

All grapes taste similar in the Bunch. If one is sweet all will be sweet. If one is sour then all will be sour.

All grapes are equal and there is no issue in equality 

*6) There is minimum waste in the grapes*

Except seeds there is nothing in the grapes which can be considered as waste. 

Infact seeds are not waste things. In this way we can consider that there nothing in the grapes which can be considered as waste

So grapes are the symbols for 100% fruit. 

*7) Call to adopt the strategy of the Grapes in life*

As Jesus explains about the vine and branches, it is very important to adopt the methodology of grapes in life 

The grapes and the Bunch of grapes has a powerful lesson to our life 

When we adopt the methodology of the vine or grapes, we will yeild 100% fruit in our life.

Am I ready to adopt the strategy of the grapes 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*

Jesus Says, Peace I leave with you - What do I leave in the World?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fifth Week - Tuesday* 

*Jesus Says, Peace I leave with you - What do I leave in the World*?

*GOSPEL -  Jn 14:27-31a*

*FIRST READING - Acts 14:19-28*

*1) Different things which people leave in the World*

When we analyse the situation around the world, there are many people who are famous, influential, powerful and with great position leave different things 

Some of the things which they leave behind may be the following

Some leave their famous name 

Some leave their achievements

Some leave their famous writings 

Some leave their famous poems and novels 

Some leave their selfless service

Some leave their simple way of life 

Some are famous for their discipline, fight for justice and truth, generosity, etc 

Some leave their bad deeds, like, cruelty, selfishness and greed 

Some people helplessly leave their accumulated wealth, money, property, things, vehicles, big houses, etc.

*2) Jesus brings peace to this world*

First of all we must be very clear that, Jesus came into this world, bringing peace. 

When Jesus was born, angels sang, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

When Jesus cured some people finally he said, your sins are forgiven, go in peace 

When Jesus rose from the death, and appeared to his disciples, he addressed them saying, *Peace be with you*

So peace is the main aspect of Jesus' life 

*3) Jesus leaves peace with us*

The Gospel of the day clearly tells us that, Jesus leaves peace to us 

Jesus says, peace I leave with u. 

There has not been any person in the world who said that I leave peace with you. It is only Jesus who said it 

*4) Importance of leaving the peace with us*

Peace is something which can't be bought or sold through the power of money, wealth and influence. 

It can only be given freely and volunteriliy. 

Unless one has peace, one can't give peace to others 

So leaving peace to some one means, it is something, which can't be thought in ordinary ways of giving or receiving, buying or selling 

*5) Need of Peace*

Today everyone is longing for peace. People go in search of peace from one place to another, one shrine to another 

In this context one should realise that only Jesus can give us real peace, because it is the heavenly peace and not the Worldly peace 

It is a peace which arises from eternal things and not from earthly things. So it has lasting value 

*6) What do I leave in my Life?* 

Jesus left peace with us. 

Many great people left many good things and they are remembered today for their legacy

What do I have to leave behind in the World? 

What do I have to leave to my family members? 

What do I have which can be left to my community members? 

Is it wordly things or eternal things? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why Jesus reveals only to His disciples and not to the World?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fifth Week - Monday*

*Why Jesus reveals only to His disciples and not to the World?*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 14:21-26*

*FIRST READING - Acts 14:5-18*

*1) Jesus revealing Himself to His disciples*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the revelation of Jesus to His disciples 

It is very important to note that, from the discussion between Jesus and His disciples it is very clear that, Jesus reveals himself to the disciples, and not to the world.

Now one may ask a simple question that, why Jesus is revealing himself only to the disciples and not to the world? 

*2) How the revelation takes place?* 

From the Gospel it is very clear that, *Love* is the basic thing, through which Jesus reveals himself to his disciples 

Jesus says, *Whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him.”*

So it is very clear that *Love* and *revelation of Jesus* go together

*3) Why Jesus not revealing to the World?*

It is not that Jesus is not revealing to the world. Jesus all the time reveals himself to Every one and to the entire world 

But the problem here is, the World is not able to recognise Jesus *The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him.* John 14:17 

Since the World does not run under the standards of Love, the world can't recognise Jesus and the revelation of Jesus become hidden to the entire World

*4) Only through Love Jesus reveals Himself to His disciples*

One who loves Jesus, becomes His disciple and in the pretext Jesus reveals Himself to his disciples

So love is the necessary thing for revelation. If there is no love, there can't be revelation. 

So love becomes a vehicle through which the revelation of Jesus takes place 

*5) Various forms of Love*

Since Love is necessary for the revelation of Jesus in our life, it is necessary to see the various aspects of love, through which Jesus reveals himself to his disciples. The following are some of the ways 

*Forgiveness* It is the another face of Love. Where there is forgiveness, Jesus reveals himself to his disciples

*Humility* This is the foundation for true love. One who humbles himself before the Lord, Jesus reveals himself to such person

*Service* Another face of Love. Only when there is love one can serve. So this another way through which Jesus reveals himself to his disciples

*Sacrifice, Compassion, Simplicity* These are the various aspects of love. Through these things Jesus reveals himself to his disciples

*Generosity, Faithfulness, Trust, Selflessness* There are various things through which the Love expresses itself and finds its meaning. These are other ways through which Jesus reveals himself to his disciples

*6) How about my Life?*

Have I been able to recognise the revelation of Jesus in my life?

Jesus reveals himself to his disciples all the time and in all the situations. But am I able to recognise this revelation in my life? 

What are the strategies, which I can adopt in my life to experience the revelation of Jesus in my life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The need of looking at the things in New way

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fifth Week - Sunday*

*The need of looking at the things in New way*

*“Behold, I make all things new.*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 13:31-33a, 34-35*

*FIRST READING - Acts 14:21-27*

*SECOND READING - Rev 21:1-5a*

*1) Newness in Life*

Newness is something which makes us happy and attractive. 

For example, when we build a new house, we are thrilled and have so many dreams about the life in New house

Like wise when we purchase new vehicles, mobile, or things we feel happy 

When we get new responsibility, new position or new status to our work we feel happy and joyful 

So Newness is something which makes us happy and joyful.

*2) Newness or New is the main theme of today's liturgy*

The Liturgy of the day speaks about four new things 

*New Earth*

*New Heaven*

*New Jerusalem*

*New commandment*

So these are the new things which are spoken in today's liturgy

*3) New Earth*

Earth is one of wonders of God to us 

Earth has variety of things and known for changes and Newness

Each day we see something new in the nature and Earth has the capacity to bring variety of Newness in various things 

Like new Earth there should be Newness in my life. Like Earth my life should be a place where the Newness appears and attracts everything

*4) New Heaven*

Some times we think that heaven is somewhere in above 

But heaven is not somewhere outside of us. Heaven is amidst us 

That is why it is our responsibility to create this this heaven where we are 

Our homes can be a heaven, our work place, our praying places, playing places, and the various activities can contribute to create a new Heaven. 

*5) New Jerusalem*

For Jews Jerusalem was everything. It was a place of God's Presence, place of religious activities, place of identity and everything. 

When Jesus came Jerusalem got new meaning that is Jerusalem is for everyone and not only to Jews 

Jerusalem means *City of Peace*

New Jerusalem calls us to make our life new through peace in the family, peace in neighbourhood, peace in our surroundings, and peace within ourselves. 

Unless we look at these realities in a new way, we can't bring peace. 

*6) New Commandment*

Jesus' new commandment is the commandment of Love 

We should have Newness in Love, only then love becomes meaningful and creative in Life 

All of us experience Love,  but as Jesus says, New commandment, can we find new ways of loving? 

New ways of expressing our love towards others? 

*7) Behold, I make all things new.*

In today's 2nd reading God says that *I make all things New*

God is always creative, full of life and attractive. 

Like wise we too are called to, see things in a new way. 

*8) Newness implies Two things*

Newness means *change*

Change in everything. It starts from our life, and it should go to every other areas of our life 

Newness means *Development*

Newness is from development and for growth. 

If there is no growth and progress, then there is no meaning for our life. 

*9) “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.”*

This is also equally true in bringing about the Newness in Life 

In the journey of Newness, be prepared for challenges, problems, hardships etc 

Am I ready for bringing Newness in Life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Need of bearing fruit, that will remain forever

.https://gospelthoughtsdaily.blogspot.com/

*Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : Fourth Week - Saturday*

*Need of bearing fruit, that will remain forever*

*Feast of St Matthias the Apostle*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 15:9–17*

*FIRST READING - Acts 1:15–17, 20–26*

*1) Jesus has chosen us to bear Fruit*

In the Gospel of the day, Jesus clearly says that, it is He who has chosen us and not that we have chosen Jesus 

The purpose of choosing us is very clear, that is to bear fruit. 

So Jesus has not chosen  us for silly things, rather He has chosen us for great things 

*2) He has chosen us to bear fruit, that will last forever*

In today's Gospel Jesus also clearly tells us that we need to bear fruit that will last for ever 

It should be the fruit that has value of eternal life 

A fruit which goes beyond this physical world and connects another world, such fruit is called the lasting fruit 

In simple words, any simple deeds of ours, which produces some effects, which has got reference to eternal life, or to the Gospel values, or to the teachings of Jesus, such deeds are called, works which bear lasting fruit. 

*3) Jesus and the Lasting Fruit*

To know what is lasting fruit we need to look at the life of Jesus 

Every activity of Jesus bore fruit, that lasts forever. 

In other words, the values of Jesus, and the Kingdom value, bear fruit, that last forever. 

*4) Some of the examples which bear fruit, that lasts forever*

The Fruit which  comes out from forgiveness

The fruit which comes out from service

The fruit which comes out from humility

The fruit which comes out from generosity

The fruit which comes out from Love 

The fruit which comes out from simplicity

The Fruit which comes out from reconciliation

The fruit which comes out from, trust, hope, patience, sacrifice etc, bear fruit which lasts for ever 

*5) The commandments of the Lord*

The Gospel also makes it very clear that the practice of all the commandments of the Lord, will generate a fruit, that lasts forever. 

*6) St Matthias and the Lasting Fruit*

As we celebrate the feast of St Matthias, the Apostle, his life is an example for us to learn how to produce fruit that lasts forever.

He detached himself from the Worldly life and offered himself to serve the Lord and to proclaim the Gospel

Thus he produced fruit that last forever. 

*7) My life and lasting Fruit*

What type of fruit am I bearing in my life Today? 

Is it a fruit that has value only from the standpoint of view of this world? 

Or does my fruit has any values for eternal things? 

What is the fruit I bear by practicing the Kingdom values in my life? 

How passionate I am in implementing the Gospel values 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 am the Way : How to understand this?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fourth Week - Friday*

*I am the Way : How to understand this?*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 14:1-6*

*FIRST READING - Acts 13:26-33*

*1) Understanding of the Way*

We are familiar about the concept of Way. 

Way helps us to move from one place to the another 

Way shows us the different directions 

Way helps us to reach our destiny 

Right Way makes our journey comfortable and to reach our goal 

*2) Jesus says : I  am the Way*

In today's Gospel Jesus says, I am the Way

When Jesus says I am the Way, it has lots of significance to our life 

Jesus shows the right direction

Jesus shows which way to follow 

Jesus guides our journey towards the right destiny

Jesus shows the direction to the eternal life 

Jesus shows the direction towards the heaven 

Jesus, tells us which way is best to achieve our goal as a Christian. 

So Jesus is the guide in our journey towards the eternal land 

*3) Jesus the Way : Various ways to understand*

There are various aspects of Jesus the way, which could be understood, in the following way 

*Forgiveness* This is Jesus' way. One who practices this, passes through Jesus' way 

*Love* This another way, through which we can pass through Jesus' way 

*Sacrifice* Sacrifice is Jesus' way, because He sacrificed even His life for our sake. 

*Service* He served least among the least. He even washed the feet of his disciples. Therefore, practicing this way means passing through Jesus' way. 

*Humility* He humbled even to the point of death on the Cross. One who humbles Himself passes through Jesus' way 

*Prayer, Trust, confidence, compassion, sincerity* are other ways through which we pass through Jesus the Way 

*4) My Life and My way*

Jesus is the way, there is no other way available for Christians 

In other words we can say 

Humility is the way 

Love is the way 

Sacrifice is the way 

Forgiveness is the way

Sincerity is the way 

Trust is the way 

Service is the way 

Prayer is the way 

So am I ready to travel on these ways? 

What is my way through which I travel daily? 

Have I found Jesus' way in my life? 

Have I realised that Jesus is the way of my life? 

How interested I am to travel in Jesus' way? 

Will my life become a way, through which others can travel and reach their destiny?? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Blessed are you if you do it

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fourth Week - Thursday*

*Blessed are you if you do it*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 13:16-20*

*FIRST READING - Acts 13:13-25*

*1) Who is blessed?*

In the Gospel of the day, Jesus tells us that, it is not enough to understand a particular thing, but it is very important to practice a particular thing. 

So understanding and practicing go together. The combination of these two things makes us blessed people 

*2) What are the things mentioned in today's Gospel?*

*A) Washing of the Feet* one who understands the importance and the hidden meaning of it, the value of it and practices in life, is a blessed person 

*B) Not to act wiser than the Master* A slave should understand his position and should act like the master. Understanding of this fact and practicing this principle will make us blessed people 

*C) Messenger is not greater than one who sent him* 

Messager send the person with some message. It is the duty of the one who carries the message to communicate the same with out adding or twisting the message 

The moment he tries to convey a different message, he tries to act, better than the one who sent him.

Such things will not lead a one to become blessed person 

*D) One who ate my food has raised his heel against me*

Never to act like this in life. One who does such a thing will never be able to become a blessed person. 

Practicing the above principle is the highest form of hypocrisy, cheating, betraying and immorality. 

Such things will not make us blessed people 

*E) Need of accepting the Saviour*

By accepting Jesus, we accept the Father. By accepting the Father, we accept the eternal plan of the Father. By accepting that we become blessed people 

*3) How powerful my desire to become a blessed person*

Unless one has a strong, desire to become a blessed person, one can never, become a blessed person 

Along with the strong desire, one needs to understand the above facts and need to practice it in our life   

So strong desire, determination to understand and willingness to practice the Gospel values will make us blessed people 

*4) My Life?*

Do I believe that I can also become a blessed person? 

Do I believe that I  am also capable to practicing the above values? 

Do I believe that nothing is impossible, if I want to achieve something?  

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

One who believes us, should not be kept in Darkness

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fourth Week - Wednesday*

*One who believes us, should not be kept in Darkness*

*Who believes in me might not remain in darkness.*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 12:44-50*

*FIRST READING -  Acts 12:24-13:5a*

*1) Jesus is the Light*

In today's Gospel Jesus says that *I came into the world as light*

Light is something which attracts, which makes us joyful and makes our life colourful

Light is something which is loved by all and which makes all things clear and bright 

*2) With Jesus one can't remain in darkness*

Since Jesus is the Light, that light makes everything bright and beautiful

One who comes into the contact of this light, can't remain in darkness. He/she remains in light 

So being with Jesus means being with Light.

*3) Advantage of being in the Light*

When some one and something is there in the light, it can be seen clearly and there is no ambiguity. 

Since light makes everything clear, there are many things which are cleared in our life 

With light we come to know more about ourselves

With light we realise what out weaknesses and sins are 

With light we realise the unworthiness before God 

With light we realise how much we are indebted to God and others

With light we come to realise the Greater values of the kingdom of God 

With light we come to know the value of forgiveness, love, humility, service, sacrifice, generosity, and sharing 

With light we realise the purpose of our life

With light we come to know the right destiny of our life 

So, there are many advantages of being with the Light, who is Jesus

*4) Trying to keep some one in darkness*

Keeping some one in darkness is terrible evil deed, which makes someone's life miserable

There are many people, who try to keep others on darkness, for their selfish purpose. 

At times those who are in power keep their subjects in darkness so that the powerful can enjoy the best things in life 

Keeping some one in darkness means, denying their basic rights, exploiting them, misusing them, giving them wrong information, and making them to believe on wrong things 

*5) The Worst thing in Life*

Keeping some one in darkness and misusing some one especially those who believe us, or those who trust us, is the worst thing, that can done by a person 

It is a highest level of cheating another, especially, to the one who believes us 

It becomes a willful cheating and trying to exploite the goodness of the person. 

That is why it is a great sin to keep some one in darkness or in ignorance

*6) My Life, Light and Darkness*

First of all being a follower of Jesus, whether I live in light or in darkness??

If I am living in light, do I radiate that light of Jesus to another through my way of life? 

Whether being in light, do I try to keep some one else in darkness for my selfish purpose 

Jesus is very clear *Everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness.*

What about me? What is my stand point??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We are in the Hands of God

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fourth Week - Tuesday*

*We are in the Hands of God*

*No one can take them out of my hand*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 10:22-30*

*FIRST READING - Acts 11:19-26*

*1) Hand is one of best Gifts of God*

All of us are gifted with hands. 

We know the importance of the hand. Without hands we are handicapped and we will not be able to do any work 

That is why, hand is one of the beautiful gifts of God. 

*2) Hand is a Symbol of Power*

There are number of references to the powerful hand of God 

Exodus 15:6 says *Your right hand, O Lord, glorious in power, your right hand, O Lord, shatters the enemy.*

*“My hand will sustain him; surely my arm will strengthen him”* (Psalm 89:21).

So it is very clear that hand is the Symbol of power

*3) The importance of the Hand*

We use hand in our daily lives for various things 

We use our hands to lift something or some one, to help some one, to move something, to close something, to hold something, to make some important signs, to support something or some one etc 

Whatever we hold in our hands, it remains safe. So hand has important gestures.

*4) The image of Mother Holding the Child*

We see this image many times 

All of us believe that as long as mother Holds the child in her arms, no danger would happen to the child 

This image is the highest form of security to the child 

Even mother is ready to sacrifice her life to protect the Child. 

So as long as the Child is in the hands of Mother, the Child is Safe. 

*5) We have been given in the Hands of Jesus*

The Gospel of the day makes it very clear that, we have been given in the hands of Jesus and *No one can take them out of my hand*

Jesus' Hand is very powerful. He blessed children, cured many lepers and sick people, cast out demons, and worked miracles. 

All these things Jesus did through His hands 

*6) No one can take away from Jesus' Hand*

Since Jesus' hand is very powerful, nothing can separate us from the hand of Jesus 

Satan, the enemy is trying at all times to separate us from the hands of Jesus. That is why we need to be careful and should be alert not to go away from the hand of Jesus 

As long as we are in the hands of Jesus, we are secure 

*7) Modern Hands of Jesus*

Sacred Scripture

Love

Humility

Forgiveness

Simplicity

Sacrifice

Sharing 

Service 

Helping hand to the needy 

Generosity

Faithfulness

Courage 

All these keep us in the Hands of Jesus

Do I allow myself to be held by Jesus' arm? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

I am the Gate

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fourth Week - Monday*

*I am the Gate*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 10:1-10*

*FIRST READING - Acts 11:1-18*

*1) The Need of a Gate*

Today *Gate* has become a very important thing in our life 

Wherever we see today, we find variety of Gates, which has its own purpose 

Be it in our compound, or in our surroundings or in the house, we see gates, and they take very important place in our life 

So gate has its own meaning and its own importance to play in our life. 

*2) Various functions of the Gate*

*A) Gate is a symbol of protection*

Gate protects us from, robbers, thieves and from evil things 

So if the gate is strong, we feel secure and protected, so Gate is the symbol of protection

*B) Gate facilities the entry and exit*

Gate is thing which allows entry and exit. 

It is through gate we go inside and come out 

*C) Gate divides and separates*

When a gate is placed in a particular place, it divides the area as inside and outside 

We speak inside the gate and outside the gate. So gate has the power to divide 

*D) Without gate survival is difficult*

Since we can't remain in a particular place for longs hours, we have to move out and move in 

So without the gate, survival becomes difficult and gate becomes a important instrument for our survival

*E) Gate gives beauty to a compound and house*

Whenever we see a gate either to the compound or to the house, it gives a special look to the place 

So gate has the power to give a beautiful face lift either to the house or to the compound. 

*F) Gate is the first thing which appears to the other*

Gate is something, which can't be hidden in a particular place

It is something which is visible from everywhere and in fact it is the first thing that is seen by the other 

*G) Gate has double lock system*

Usually gate has double lock system, it means it can be locked either from inside or from outside 

Both the sides are equally powerful and they help us in  potecting our house and life

*3) Jesus is the Gate*

In today's Gospel, Jesus solemnly proclaims saying that *He is the Gate*

When we hear about this particular word, it is very important to see all the above aspects in the life of Jesus 

As gate works in a place in various ways, so also Jesus works in our life as gate, and this gate becomes very important aspect in our life 

*4) Am I ready to make Jesus as the gate of my life?*

There is no doubt that Jesus is the Gate. 

But the question is, whether I am ready to accept Jesus as the gate of my life? 

By accepting Jesus as the gate of my life, my life becomes blessed, secure and holy 

*Jesus the Gate,* gives me protection from evil one, gives beauty to my life, separates me from good and evil, facilities secure entry and exit and gives me new meaning to my life 

So am I ready to install *Jesus the gate* in my life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do I hear the Voice of my Shepherd?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Fourth Week - Sunday*

*Do I hear the Voice of my Shepherd?*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 10:27-30*

*FIRST READING - Acts 13:14, 42-52*

*Second Reading : Rev 7:9, 14b,-17*

*1) My sheep hear my voice*

In today's Gospel Jesus tells about His Sheep 

The faithful sheep is the one, which listens to the voice of the Master 

Since the Sheep knows the voice of the Master, they are familiar with the Voice of the Master and they listen to the Same 

*2) Need of hearing the Voice of the Master*

Sheep need to hear the voice for the Guidance

Sheep need to hear the voice to know the right thing 

Sheep need to hear the voice to remain careful about the danger 

Sheep need to hear the voice, remain in touch with the Master 

Sheep need to hear the voice to know the better pasture

Sheep need to hear the voice, in order to come out from ignorance, doubt, and wrong things 

*3) Various ways through which we can hear the Voice of the Shepherd - Today*

Today there are various ways through which we can hear the voice of the Shepherd. Some of them are the following

*Sacred Scripture* one of the powerful means though which the Shepherd speaks us today. 

*Eucharist* Eucharist is nothing but the sacrament, where we hear the voice of the Master, continuously

*Prayer* Prayer is a direct way through which the Shepherd speaks to us 

*Conscience* This is the most personal way through which we can hear the voice of the Master 

*My Neighbor* The shepherds voice also comes through the My neighbor. 

*Through various events* Every event that happens in our life, is an occasion for us to listen to the voice of the Master 

*Teachers & Leaders* All our teachers and leaders are in the place of Shepherd. So the shephards voice is also heard through them 

*Family* Through all thr members and through every event that happens in the family is a moment to hear the voice of the Master 

*4) Do I hear the voice of My Master?*

This is very important question. 

The shepherd, speaks in different ways, through different people and through different situations. But the question is, whether I am able to hear the voice or not? 

Ultimately I have to make a choice to listen to the voice of the Master. 

So what is my choice? 

*5) Various hurdles*

At times there are many hurdles, which prevent us from hearing the voice of the Shepherd. Some of them are following

Arrogance

Pride

Revenge

Selfishness

Anger 

Jealousy

Rudeness

Self righteousness

Attachment to power, authority, wealth, money and weirdly pleasure

Greed for worldly things 

*6) Self Evaluation*

How do I know wehter I hear the voice of the shepherd or not? 

Look at your own life. If there is any little growth in spiritual life, then it is sure that one hears the voice of the shepherd

If there a zeal for good things, desire to live a sincerere life, ready to accept ones weakness and change life, one hears the voice of the Master 

If one does not care for anything, lives as he wishes, becomes the slave of worldly things, it is very clear that he/she does not listen to the voice of the Master. 

What about me? Do I hear the voice or Not??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

As a Christian, to whom shall I Go?

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Third Week - Saturday*

*As a Christian, to whom shall I Go?*

*Simon Peter answered him, “Master, to whom shall we go?*

*GOSPEL - Jn 6:60-69*

*FIRST READING - Acts 9:31-42*

*1) The background of this Question*

This question was raised by Peter and answered by Peter 

Before this question there two other questions, which we see in today's Gospel

When Jesus said that one eats his flesh and drinks his blood will have eternal life. To this statement of Jesus people expressed their opinion in this way *“This saying is hard; who can accept it?”*

Secondly when many people left Jesus thinking that the teachings of Jesus is impossible to follow Jesus asked his disciples the following question *“Do you also want to leave?”*

To this question Peter  answers in a question answer Format

*2) Master, to whom shall we go?*

To this question question, Peter Himself answers a meaningful way. He says the following things 

Jesus, You have the words of eternal life 

Jesus, You are the Master and the Lord 

Jesus, we are convinced that You are the Holy One 

So, Jesus we come to you, we remain with you and we don't want to leave you. 

So this what is expressed by Peter to the above question

*3) As a Christian where shall I go?*

It is very clear that, from the above question of Peter, we should also ask this question. 

To Peter's question, Peter himself had a powerful answer. But what about me? 

May be the following things could be considered as the answer to this question. 

As a Christian I need to go to Jesus, because Jesus has the eternal life

As a Christian I need to go tk the word of God, because God's word is eternal 

As a Christian I need to go to the church, because the presence of Jesus is found in the church and in Holy places 

As a Christian I need to go to my own conscience, because it is the place of God, where I can experience God

As a Christian I need to go to my Family, where my neighbor lives. It is place to practice the commandment of Love 

*4) Various ways of experiencing the Intimacy of the Lord*

In the answer of Peter, there was a deep relationship and intimacy between Jesus and His disciples. 

If so what are the practical ways through which we can experience the intimacy of the Lord?

Forgiveness, generosity, sharing, service, love, sacrifice, trust, humility, caring, compassion. 

Through these ways we experience the intimacy with the Lord 

*5) Best Answer*

*Forgiveness,* to whom shall I go, you have the Words of eternal life 

*Love* to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

*Humility* to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

*Service* to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

*Truth* to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

*Sacrifice* to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

*Compassion* to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

So finally as a Christian, to whom Shall I go?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Problem of Quarreling among ourselves

*Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : Third Week - Friday*

*The problem of Quarreling among ourselves*

*The Jews quarreled among themselves*

*Gospel - Jn 6:52-59*

*FIRST READING - Acts 9:1-20*

*1) Quarrel among themselves, but problem is Somewhere*

The Gospel of the day begins with the thought that the Jews quarrelled among them selves 

The cause of the quarrel is Jesus words about giving His body as a flesh to eat 

Now problem is with Jesus' words but the quarrel is among themselves. 

So it is very clear that cause of the quarrel and the fight among themselves do not have direct link 

*2) The best Solution*

Instead of Quarreling among themselves, they would have gone directly to Jesus and clarified the doubt 

When Jesus is among them, there is all the possibilities to clarify the doubt, instead of fighting among themselves

So asking with Jesus and trying to clarify the matter with the right person would be the best solution.

*3) The consequences of the Quarrel among themselves*

Such a quarrel brings about a great division among them 

The unity of the group is weakened and strength becomes weak 

The quarrel finally turns into revenge taking attitude which destroys everything

When there is a quarrel within themselves, the third one takes the advantage. 

*4) Some of the reasons for the fight within a group*

Lack of clarity about something

Disagreement with each others opinion 

Rigidity to accept the others opinion 

At times the problem of power and authority. At times jealousy can also contribute to the fight 

*5) Fight with-in is most dangerous thing*

When people fight among themselves, it becomes most dangerous things because, everything turns out to be a battle ground 

Fight within destroys everything and it makes our life, miserable to live 

*Fight within* ultimately makes everyone to suffer and to cause trouble for others 

*6) My life*

We live in a family, in the ward and in the parish which is a bigger community

If there is fight among ourselves, it becomes a big problem for everyone. No development,  no progress and no life is found when there is internal conflicts

How do I see the reality of Quarrel within the community, or in the family? 

Am I try to solve the issues by approaching the right person or, do I contribute to the fight within the family and community. 

Where there is internal fight, there can't be peace, joy, happiness, and  creativity.

 "How can I avoid quarreling among ourselves?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Learning highly depends on Listening

Gospel Thoughts

*Easter Season : Third Week - Thursday*

*Learning highly depends on Listening*

*Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me.*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 6:44-51*

*FIRST READING - Acts 8:26-40*

*1) The connection between Learning and Listening*

*Learn* has five alphabets and *Listen* has six alphabets. 

This shows *Listening* is more important than *Learning*

*Listen* is a base on which *Learn* should rest. 

So *learning* primarily depends in *Listening*

*2) Jesus Listened to the Father and Learnt His will*

Many times we see in the life of Jesus that He listens intently to the Father through prayers 

By Listening He learnt the will of His Father and He was obedient to the Father 

So it is very important to listen in order to learn something new

*3) Why Listening is very Important*

Only by listening one can learn 

Listening makes a person to concentrate fully on a particular issue 

Listening facilitates a person to understand a particular subject 

Listening is one of the best ways to learn 

*4) Two ears and One Mouth*

This reality also communicates a powerful message to all of us 

It is very important that we speak less and listen more  

God has given us two ears and one Mouth, so that we listen more and speak less 

A wise person is the one who listens more, in order to learn. 

*5) Ears in the Shape of an Heart*

When we join both the Ears, it gets the shape of an heart. 

This also communicates the function of the Ears 

Ears are directly connected to the heart. So whatever goes through the years, goes directly to the Heart 

Once something goes to the heart, it becomes more powerful and it moves the person to do something great 

So ears and heart is closely connected with each others 

*6) Poison through the Ears and poison through ones Mouth*

It is said that the Poison which goes through the mouth can be taken out through the medicine. 

But the poison, which goes through the ears, can't be taken out very easily 

Poison through ears is more dangerous than the poison though the mouth 

*7) We need to listen carefully the Following things, in order to learn Many Great things*

Listen carefully the Sacred Scripture

Listen carefully ones own conscience

Listen to the Nature 

Listen to the advice given by great people 

Listen to the preachings 

Listen to elders and those who have great Knowledge

By carefully listening these above mentioned things, we learn Great thing in our life

*Am I ready to Listen?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*