Importance of the Fourth Watch and Jesus' Walking on the Water

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 18th Week - Monday*

*Importance of the Fourth Watch and Jesus' Walking on the Water*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 14:13-22-36*

*FIRST READING - Jer 28:1-17*

*1) The Concept of Fourth Watch*

According to the Romans, the night time is divided into four parts 

6-9 pm - First watch 

9-12 pm - Second Watch 

12-3 am - Third watch 

3-6 am - Fourth watch 

The Fourth watch is the last part of the night 

With the Fourth Watch the new day begins. 

This is how we understand the Fourth Watch 

*2) Significance of the Fourth Watch*

Fourth watch has special significance. It can be seen either in a positive way or in a negative way 

*Positive way*

Fourth watch includes the Early hours of the day

People get up from sleep towards the End of Fourth watch 

People spend their valuable time in prayer early in the Morning 

Early to bed and early to rise applies towords the end of Fourth watch 

Since people get up from the sleep at the Fourth watch, they become alert and active for rest of the day 

*Negative Way*

Its the most darkest of the night when it begins the fourth watch 

It is also believed that Satan is active during the Fourth watch, because human beings are most weak at the Fourth Watch 

Human will is most weak at the Fourth Watch, therefore the temptations are high at this time 

Most of the Accidents take place during the Fourth Watch

*3) Jesus' Visit at the Fourth Watch*

As we learnt that human spirit is weak at the fourth watch 

So Jesus' visit at the Fourth watch has special significance, because Jesus was with the disciples, when they needed Him most

It  also gives a powerful message that, Jesus is with us, when we are weak and struggling a lot in our life 

In fact the disciples were in deep trouble at the Fourth Watch and Jesus was with them at that crisis 

So God never allows us alone in our deep troubles

*4) Deeper meaning of  Fourth Watch*

Having learnt about the literal meaning of Fourth Watch, which is applicable to 3am to 6am, the Fourth watch can also be analysed from other angles

It could be darkest event of our life

It could be the deepest crisis of our life 

It could be a grave loss in terms of death of the beloved people, financial crisis, loss of ones health, loss of ones possessions, and loss of ones belongings 

Fourth watch could be a desperate situation in life, total confusion in life or fearful situation in ones life 

*5) Fourth Watch in my Life*

No one can escap from the Fourth watch in life 

Even Jesus had to pass through the experience of Fourth Watch in his life 

Disciples had similar experience, which we see in today's Gospel

All the followers of Jesus will have to go through the experience of Fourth Watch 

Since Fourth Watch has positive and Negative aspects in it, it depends on us how we accept the Fourth Watch in our lives 

*So what is Fourth watch 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 the Rich man was called as Fool?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 18th Week - Sunday*

*Why the Rich man was called as Fool?*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 12:13-21*

*FIRST READING - Ecc 1:2; 2:21-23*

*SECOND READING - Col 3:1-5, 9-11*

*1) The Rich man was called Rich Fool*

This is one of the important point to note. 

There is no doubt that the person was very rich and he had lots of wealth and possessions

But the question is, why such a rich man was called Fool? 

Or what made him to be called as fool?

*2) He became fool, through His wealth and riches*

The Gospel makes it clear that the wealth which he had made him, fool 

In other words the way he handled his wealth made the person to be called as fool 

Some times when people get lots of wealth, they become crazy and they act like fools 

So this must have been one of the reasons, why he became fool

*3) Various characteristics of a fool*

*A) Talking to oneself*

When people speak only with the self, such a person is called as fool 

The rich person who appears in the Gospel, speaks to his own self 

He does not speak to other people and only speaks with the things and wealth  

*B) He destroys, what is already built*

When there was good crop, the space was not sufficient to store the things

Instead of adding a small building to the existing one, he destroyed all the existing buildings to build new ones, which was unnecessary and foolish idea also. 

*C)  One is praising oneself*

Here the Rich man praises himself 

He calls himself and Lucky man because of His wealth 

So when one praises himself/Herself is considered as fool 

*D) Attached to pleasure principle*

*Rest, eat, drink, be merry!*

This is the philosophy which was followed by the rich man 

For Him life consisted in eating, drinking and making merry 

When people follow this principle, they concentrate only on Pleasures. They forget that there  is life after death

Such persons can be called as fools 

 

*E) Agricultural harvest can't be preserved for Long years*

This rich man thought that, whatever he needed for life is already preserved in the godowns. 

But the fact is that, the preserved things can remain intact only for some time. After words they spoil 

Such a logic was not followed by this, rich man. So automatically this rich man is a foolish one 

 

*4) What about my Life?*

How do I see the wealth and riches in my life? 

Is it only material things that I consider as riches or is there anything else which is more richer than the material things? 

How about sharing my wealth and riches with others? 

Will I be called as fool, because of my wealth and riches???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Good and Just people never Die. They are seen in different persons

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Saturday*

*Good and Just people never Die. They are seen in different persons*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 14:1-12*

*FIRST READING - Jer 26:11-16, 24*

*1) Herod Saw, John the Baptist in Jesus*

When Jesus became very popular, His reputation was growing with great signs like, miracles and wonders 

When the King saw, the reputation and the popularity of Jesus, He thought that It was John who has been raised to life, because of great things which were happening in the life of Jesus 

Infact Herod had killed John because He condemned Herod for his immoral ways

Now the Same Herod is seeing John in Jesus 

*2) Good and Just people can't be killed*

From the life of King Herod its very clear that good and just people can't be killed 

Since the Same Herod who killed John, now seeing the Same John in Jesus means, John is still living and he is not dead and gone 

Its true that, good people can't be killed, because goodness, Justice and truth has no death, and people who work for it never die. 

*3) Princes and People Saw a prophet, man of God in Jeremiah*

The priests and prophets wanted to kill Jeremiah for prophesying against their city 

So they saw a destroyer in Jeremiah. 

But after hearing the wise words of Jeremiah, the Princes and people saw a genuine prophet, a man who was sent from God and a Holy man 

Therefore they didn't allow him to be killed by his enemies 

Once again it is true that truth and justice never die 

*4) Poor Saw Jesus in Mother Theresa*

Many people see jesus in Mother Theresa. 

For many Mother Theresa means Jesus' appearance 

People see the same Jesus who worked miracles, who cured sick, who consoled the poor and who spent his life for the downtrodden, in Mother Theresa. 

So once again its very clear that the kingdom values never die 

There is no death for Jesus and His values. They reign for ever and ever 

*5) Herods reaction and present day Context*

Herod the tetrarch heard the reputation of Jesus and saw John the Baptist in Him. 

He accepted this great fact, and revealed this fact to others 

In the modern day context there are many who are in the position of Herod, and who in fact see Jesus in the lives of many Christians. But they don't want to accept the fact. This is the tragedy of the modern day situation and also the problem of morden day Herod 

Even after 2000 years of Jesus'  death, He is still living in the hearts and lives of people which is witnessed by millions of People 

So goodness has no death. It never dies 

*6) What is seen in my Life?*

What do people see in my life? 

Are they able to see Jesus and His values in my Life? 

Does my life, corresponds to the Kingdom Values? 

The Word Christian has *Christ* in it. Does my Christian Spirit reflect Christ and His values? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Triple aspects of Human Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Friday*

*.https://gospelthoughtsdaily.blogspot.com/

*Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Friday*

*Triple aspects of Human Life*

*GOSPEL -  Luke 10:38-42*

*FIRST READING - Jer 26:1-9*

*Feast of Sts Martha, Mary & Lazarus*

*1) Three important persons*

Today we celebrate the feast of Three important personalities from from the Gospel

These three important figures are Matha, Mary &Lazarus

These three saints and the their mission communicates  a powerful mission to our life 

If so let's see what is the special tasks of these personalities

*2) Matha: Martha symbolizes the aspect of Work*

Since she was busy in cooking, one can consider that Martha was good in serving and reached out to the aspect

There are several Martha's around us, who  work for the us and for our betterments 

 

*3) Mary : Prayer and Spirituality*

Mary was one who liked to spend time in prayer. That's why she sat at feet of  Jesus to listen to him

 Mary symbolises the Aspect of Prayer, spirituality and great virtue  patience 

We must also see that, Like Mary, there are numerous persons who pray for us and give their prayerful support for us 

Let's remember them and  pray for them and for their intentions. 

*4) Lazarus: Silent and unseen work*

Lazarus is not mentioned in today's Gospel

Mission

But elsewhere we get the information that Lazarus is the member  this family 

His work is not mentioned any where in the Holy Scripture. But he was there while Jesus visited their House

*5) *My life and the Three aspects*

All these three aspects are found within the self

Our mission is to search for the KOG

All these aspects will help us to have a balanced Approach 

One needs have all these above mentioned things 

*Think about Approach od bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

*GOSPEL -  Luke 10:38-42*

*FIRST READING - Jer 26:1-9*

*Feast of Sts Martha, Mary & Lazarus*

*1) Three important persons*

Today we celebrate the feast of Three important personalities from from the Gospel

These three important figures are Matha, Mary &Lazarus

These three saints and the their mission communicates  a powerful mission to our life 

If so let's see what is the special tasks of these personalities

*2) Matha: Martha symbolizes the aspect of Work*

Since she was busy in cooking, one can consider that Martha was good in serving and reached out to the aspect

There are several Martha's around us, who  work for the us and for our betterments 

 

*3) Mary : Prayer and Spirituality*

Mary was one who liked to spend time in prayer. That's why she sat at feet of  Jesus to listen to him

 Mary symbolises the Aspect of Prayer, spirituality and great virtue  patience 

We must also see that, Like Mary, there are numerous persons who pray for us and give their prayerful support for us 

Let's remember them and  pray for them and for their intentions. 

*4) Lazarus: Silent and unseen work*

Lazarus is not mentioned in today's Gospel

Mission

But elsewhere we get the information that Lazarus is the member  this family 

His work is not mentioned any where in the Holy Scripture. But he was there while Jesus visited their House

*5) *My life and the Three aspects*

All these three aspects are found within the self

Our mission is to search for the KOG

All these aspects will help us to have a balanced Approach 

One needs have all these above mentioned things 

*Think about Approach od bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Our Life is Like a clay in the Potter's Hand

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Thursday*

*Our Life is Like a clay in the Potter's Hand*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 13:47-53*

*FIRST READING - Jer 18:1-6*

*1) Clay in the Potter's Hand*

The clay can get any Shape. 

It has the numerous possibility to get the shape 

The Potter's uses his skills to give different shapes and he goes on giving new shapes untill he is satisfied with the Final shape

*2) Potter's needs, great amount of Patience*

Potter's work needs great amount of attention while giving the shape to the vessel

He has to try again and again to give better and better to the vessel

Such a work needs a great amount of patience

*3) Clay can be used again and again until it become hard*

Once the clay is wet and smooth, it can be used again and again 

On the other hand clay has the capacity to take any form which the Potter gives 

The flexibility of the clay to take any form is something, which one can admire about the clay 

Till it become dry one can use the clay again and again 

*4) We are clay in the hands of God*

The moment we apply the logic of the clay to our life, one must be ready to adopt the logic the clay to our life 

Clay is flexible for change, we must be ready for any change

Clay is ready to take any form. Likewise we must be ready to take any form

Clay has its existence only in the hands of the potter. Likewise we have our existence only in the hands of God 

Clay needs water to mold it. Like wise we need spiritual strength to mold our self 

Potter can work on the clay, until it becomes hard. God can work on our self until we live on this earth 

The clay needs fire to dry and the vessle to become strong. Likewise we need the fire of the Holy Spirit to become strong 

*5) We are potters of our Self*

At times we also should act as potter of our own life

We need to work on the self to give better and new shapes to our life

As the potter we need great amount of patience while working on the self. Only such approach can help us in bringing a new and better shape 

Potter uses different instruments while giving the shape to the clay. Likewise we need to use different instruments like, forgiveness, humility, sacrifice, love, truth, and other kingdom values in bringing the change in our self 

*6) Am I ready to work as Potter and Clay?*

We need to play both the roles in our lives 

We need to be clay when we surrender ourselves into the hands of God 

We need to be like potter when we want to change something in our lives

So 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*

The Kingdom of God and the Search

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Wednesday*

*The Kingdom of God and the Search*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 13:44-46*

*FIRST READING - Jer 15:10, 16-21*

*1) The concept of Search*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the concept of Serach

In the two tiny parables, in the context of explaining the Kingdom of God, the need of the *Serach* is highlighted

One parable speaks about the Serach for the buried treasure and the other one speaks about the Serach for valuable pearls 

*2) Serach for the Kingdom*

The whole search is geared towards the Kingdom of God 

One needs to serach to find out the Kingdom of God 

So finding of the Kingdom of God is the main theme of the search 

*3) The Kingdom of God is within You*

*The Kingdom of God is Within You"* Luke 17:21 

So we are searching the treasure or the Pearl which is either buried or hidden in our life 

So the search is basically should be conducted within our self and not outside our self 

So it is a inward serach and not a outward search 

*4) The Search for the treasure and the Pearls*

Once we are sure that the treasure and the Pearls are hidden in our life, we can conduct a serach to find out these treasures in our life 

So what are these treasures? 

From the teachings of Jesus one can conclude that the following things are the part of the Kingdom of God 

Forgiveness

Love 

Sacrifice

Service 

Sharing 

Humility

Happiness

Care and concern 

Simplicity

Truthfulness

Sincerity

Generosity

Compassion

Joyfulness 

Faithfulness

Prayerfulness 

Faith in God 

Truthfulness

Trust 

All these virtues are not found out side but they are found in the person and within the person 

God has placed all these virtues in our life. Our mission is to serach and to find these virtues and to practice it in our daily life 

Nothing is borrowed from outside. Everything is found in our life. But we need to search for it and need to find it 

*5) Am I ready to Search?* 

Unless we serach it, we will not find these treasures in our life 

No body from out side and serach these treasures to me, in my life. They can guide me. But ultimately I need to serach for these treasures in my life 

The meaning of life Consists in searching these valuable Kingdom values in my life and practicing it, in our daily life inorder to live a holy Life. 

If so am I ready to serach for this treasure and pearl which is hidden 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*

We see and hear what others didn't hear and see

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Tuesday*

*Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 13:16-17*

*FIRST READING - Sir 44:1, 10-15*

*We see and hear what others didn't hear and see*

*1) Hearing & Seeing*

The Gospel of the day speaks about hearing and seeing

First of all it says *Blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear.*

Secondly it says *Many prophets and righteous people  longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.*

From this, it is clear that we are seeing something special and we are hearing something new. 

If so, we need to ask what are those things? 

*2) Change in hearing and Seeing*

When Gospel speaks about seeing and hearing, it refers to time of Jesus, which covers the present situation

So after Jesus' coming we hear and see lots of new and special things, which those people who were before Jesus could not see 

So the Followers of Jesus see and hear something new and Great things 

*3) What are the new and Special things*

*A) Forgiveness* : The beauty and the power of forgiveness has been seen and heard only by those who became the disciples of Jesus. Forgiveness gets a new meaning only after Jesus' arrival. So we are blessed to see the beauty and to hear the power of Forgiveness

*B) Love* : prophets and other people who existed before Jesus could not see and hear the unconditional love of Jesus

*C) Service* The special service of Jesus could not have been seen or heard by those who were before Jesus. We are blessed to hear and see the Christian service in the name of Jesus

*D) Sacrifice* Only Jesus' life can show the real meaning of the sacrifice. We are blessed to see and hear about this sacrifice 

*E) Spiritual Things*

The Gospel, which inspires everyone 

The Holy Mass. We are blessed to see, hear and experience God through Holy which others didn't get 

Coming together and sharing joys and sorrows

Reading of the Gospels. Greatest privilege

Seeing Jesus in communion. How lucky we are 

*4) What do i see and Hear Today?*

Do I see great and beautiful things because of Jesus? 

Do I hear about the Word of God, which is readily available today? 

Do I see and hear the cry of Jesus in the poor and marginalized?

Do i agree that I see and hear greater and better things, which others could not see, eventhough they had great desire to hear and to see? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Treasure in Earthen Vessel

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Monday*

*Treasure in Earthen Vessel*

*GOSPEL - Matt 20:20-28*

*FIRST READING - 2 Cor 4:7-15*

*1) Imagery of Treasure in Earthen Vessel*

The First reading of the day speaks about this imagery

Its a beautiful imagery to reflect a deeper truth about our own life 

This imagery is closely linked to our life and also to the meaning of our life. 

*2) Two Realities*

There two realities found in this imagery.

First of all the Earthen vessel

Secondly the valuable treasure which in hidden in the Earthen vessel

Earthen vessel is very delicate, whereas the treasure which is found in it is more valuable and more enduring 

*3) Life, Earthen Vessel and the Treasure*

This imagery is directly linked to our life. 

There are two realities in our life. 

Material aspect of life, which is our Body

The Spiritual aspect of Life, which is equal to the soul, life and divine aspect found in Human being 

The material aspect is very delicate and does not last long 

The Spiritual aspect of Life lasts for ever, which can't be destroyed 

So material body is the Earthen vessel and the Soul is the treasure which is kept in this earthen vessel. 

*4) Treasure will be lost but can't be destroyed*

At times one can lose the  treasure because of various reasons. But the treasure can't be destroyed. 

The so called tressure of Holy life, the image and likeness of God, the good values, and the beautiful things of Life can be lost from the Earthen vessel of this material body 

But they are not destroyed. Good things can never be destroyed, but they are only separated from the bad things 

*5) Have I Lost my treasure?*

It depends on the way I live my life, I preserve my treasure

If the treasure is lost, one needs to work hard to find that treasure and to restore it in the Earthen vessel

So findjng a lost treasure, and restoring it in the earthen vessel is a continuous process and one needs to work for it 

*6) St James and Earthen Vessel with Treasure*

As we celebrate the feast of St James, his life is a perfect example for the above imagery. 

He protected the valuable treasure in the Earthen vessel, by giving his life 

He treasured the treasure through his blood and life 

*7) Alertness in my life*

The above imagery calls us to become alert in life, in protecting the Earthen vessel

Since earthen vessel is very delicate one needs to be very careful in protecting the earthen vessel and the treasure

Will I be ready??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Lord, Teach us to Pray

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 17th Week - Sunday*

*Lord, Teach us to Pray*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 11:1-13*

*FIRST READING - Gn 18:20-32*

*SECOND READING - Col 2:12-14*

*1) Beautiful Request*

I feel, among all the requests made by the disciples of Jesus, *Lord Teach us to Pray* could be considered as the most beautiful and meaningful request from the disciples of Jesus

We like to learn many things in life, and learning is necessary to master any art

Prayer is one of the most important things in our life, which definately needs a training

Any perticular art, which is learnt through the proper channel has more value and depth than things learnt by without any proper training 

So this request is most beautiful request 

*2) How Jesus Taught His Disciples?*

There are many things involved here in the process of teaching them to pray 

*A) He taught them by giving them a model prayer*

While teaching His disciples to pray, Jesus was very practical in His approach

He gave them a model prayer and asked them to pray 

In other words we can say, Jesus taught them to pray, by praying itself 

*B) Jesus taught them the Spirit of Prayer*

In the Lord's prayer we hardly find words like *I* *Mine* *Me*

Instead of these words we have a powerful word *Our* and *Ours*

This perticular word highlights the spirit of Prayer. 

So we should pray other centred and not the self centred prayer 

*C) Jesus Taught them to pray, persistently*

In Jesus' method there is no holiday for prayer 

He asked them to pray all the time and especially at the time of trail and temptations

A prayer which is prayed repeatedly and continuously has more power than any other prayer 

*D) Jesus taught them to pray by Asking*

Jesus said *Ask you shall receive*

He taught them to ask with confidence with Heavenly Father 

Asking, seeking and knocking becomes the three important features of Jesus' method of prayer 

*3) The Abrahamic Method of Prayer*

In the First Reading of today we find a new method, which could be called as the Abrahamic Method 

This method is built on the foundation of Friendship with God, where prayer takes the role of a friendly conversation with God

This prayer also geared towards the benefits of others and not for the self 

Abrahamic method can help a person to pray for others and to save them from greater danger 

*4) Prayer in my Life*

Disciple felt the need of learning the method of Prayer. What about me? 

Disciples were inspired by looking at Jesus and the way He spent time in Prayer. Am I inspired by some one because of their prayer life. Can I become an inspirer to others? 

How much time do i spend in prayer? 

I can learn praying,  only by praying 

There is no short cut for learning how to pray 

Let Jesus be our model in praying 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of a Gate Keeper to once own Life

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Saturday*

*Importance of a Gate Keeper to once own Life*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 13:24-30*

*FIRST READING - Jer 7:1-11*

*1) Jeremiah was asked to function as Gate Keeper of the Temple*

The first reading of the day speaks about the concept of Gate keeper. 

Jeremiah was asked to become the Gate Keeper of the Temple of the Lord, by God Himself 

The entire first reading of the day is speaking about the importance of Gate Keeper 

*2) Jeremiah's work as Gate Keeper*

He was asked by the Lord to remain at the main Gate of the Temple to communicate a very important message to the People 

He remained at the entrance of the temple gate and these following words 

*Reform your ways and your deeds, so that I may remain with you in this place.*

*Put not your trust in the deceitful words:*

*3) We are the Temple of the Holy Spirit*

St Paul says that *do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you* 

Since our body and our life is the Temple of the Holy Spirit, it should have a gate through which one can enter and come out 

So it is our duty to stand at the gate of our life, like Jeremiah and to proclaim  the same words like *Reform your ways and your deeds, so that I may remain with you in this place.*

*4) Various gates of our Life*

*Mind* could be considered as the main gate of our life 

Heart is the another gate of our life 

All our senses are nothing but the gates of our life, through which various things enter into our life 

*5) Various  places to perform our duty as gate keeper*

Stand at the gate of Mind and check that only good things are entered into the mind 

Stand at the gate of heart and filter all that poisonous things from entering into the heart 

Stand at the gate of all senses and screen all that unwanted things and allow only that good things into life 

*6) Unholy Holy People Entering into the Temple*

The first reading of the day makes it very clear that when the unholy people enter through the gate to go into the temple, God does not remain in that place 

Only when people reform their life, the Lord remains in the temple 

Like wise even in our life, when life is reformed, Lord stays in our life and we can experience the Lord. If not we can't experience 

*7) My Responsibility as Gate Keeper*

I am the gate keeper of my Life 

I need to stand at the various gates of my life inorder to check the unwanted things entering into life 

Am I ready to work as gate keeper 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*

Whom are you looking for?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Friday*

*Whom are you looking for?*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 20:1-2, 11-18*

*FIRST READING - Sg 3:1-4b or 2 Cor 5:14-17*

*1) Whom are you Looking For?*

This beautiful, meaningful and very practical question is found in Today's Gospel

Today, since we are celebrating the Feast of Mary Magdalene, this question has direct reference to  the Life of Mary Magdalene

*2) Mary Magdalene's Search for Jesus*

Mary Magdalene was  desperately searching for Jesus

After the Death of Jesus, early in the Morning she goes to the Tomb, searching for Jesus

So, she could not remain without Jesus. By all means, she wanted Jesus. So she was searching for Jesus

*3) Mary Magdalene Found Jesus*

The serach of Mary Magdalene for Jesus, finally yielded a good result 

She found Risen Jesus whom she was looking for 

So when someone sersches Jesus with sincere heart, one can find Jesus 

Finding Jesus in our life is a great event, which can't be equated with anythingelse in life. 

*4) Whom I am looking For?*

When we celebrate the feast of Mary Magdalene it is proper to reflect the same question which was addressed to Mary Magdalene

So it is right to ask *Whom I am looking for in life?*

To this question there will be variety of answers, which will help us to see where wee are 

So finally whom I am looking for?? 

Am I looking for wordly things? 

Am I looking for wealth, money, power, position, authority or name? 

Am I looking for my safety?

Am I looking for my comforts and pleasures of life? 

Or Am I looking for Jesus? 

*5) Where to look for Jesus today??*

Mary Magdalene went to the tomb, for searching Jesus. But today where shall we go for searching for Jesus?

Today we can search Jesus in the Little ones, poor, marginalized, downtrodden and lost one 

We can also search Jesus in the Scriptures, and in the holy Scriptures and in the sacraments

We can find Jesus in my neighbors, and in the needy persons 

So we have number of opportunities to search for Jesus and to find Him 

But the question is am I ready for search for Jesus and am I interested in meeting Jesus?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Blessed are your ears, because they Hear

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Thursday*

*Blessed are your ears, because they Hear*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 13:10-17*

*FIRST READING - Jer 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13*

*1) Ears are great Gift of God*

Ears are one among the great wonders of God in the Human person 

The capacity to hear through the ears can't be compared to any valuable thing in the world, because once the ear loses the  capacity to hear, there is no thing which can help to get it back

*2) Two ear Shapes form the Symbol of Heart*👂👂❤️

This is the fact. Two ears when kept together, they form the shape of the Heart 

It conveys the message that, ears are directly connected to the heart 

So listening directly affects the heart or careful listening can change the heart of the person 

Since heart is the centre of emotions, listening, can influence the emotions. Which is very important for our conversion 

*3) What do I hear in my daily life?*

There is no doubt that, we have the capacity to listen and hear 

But the question is, what do I hear through my ears? What is the content which I am interested to listen? What is the subject matter of my listening?? 

*4) When our ears become blessed?*

In today's Gospel, Jesus says *Blessed are the eras which they hear*

We need to reflect about when do our ears become blessed? 

It is very clear that when we use our ears to listen to Good News of the Kingdom of God, when we hear the Word of God, When we hear the Values of the Kingdom of God, our ears become blessed 

*5) We need to protect our ears*

As we protect many things in our life, it is very important that we protect our ears too 

We need to protect our ears mainly from gossip, from wrong information, from cruel things, from lose talk and other things which belong to unholy things 

By protecting our ears, we will be able to safeguard our minds and hearts from evil things which will help us to live a holy life 

*6) Poison which enters through ear and Mouth*

It is said, that the poison, which enters through the mouth can be taken out and the person can be saved 

But the poison which enters through ears can't be taken out. It poisons the whole life. 

So it is said, that poison which  eneters through the ear is most dangerous than the poison which enters through the Mouth. 

*Do I consider my ears are blessed which are able to hear?*

*What do they hear today?*

*What would I like to hear?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

A sower can't sow inside

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Wednesday*

*A sower can't sow inside*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 13:1-9*

*FIRST READING - Jer 1:1, 4-10*

*1) “A sower went out to sow.*

The parable of the Sower starts with this sentance

The process of going out by the Sower to sow the seeds is very important gesture, which speaks a lot about our life 

*Going out* in the  literal sense may be going to field. But more than literal meaning, there is a deeper spiritual meaning hidden in the process of going out

*2) Going out Was necessary for sowing*

The sower could not sow the seed inside 

That's why he had to go out and sow the seeds in the field. 

Such seed was able to produce good fruit and this happened only because the Sower went out to sow the seeds 

*3) The seeds of the Sower*

The sower had good seeds which were sown in the the field. Such seeds produced fruits 

Like wise, what type of seeds Do I have iny life?

Following things could be seen as the seeds in our life 

The seed forgiveness

The seed of love 

The seed of humility

The seed of sacrifice

The seed of service 

The seed of truthfulness

The seed of hardwork

The seed of sincerity

The seed of concern 

The seed of helping 

The seed of smiling

The seed of Generosity

The seed of holiness 

That seed of prayer 

The seed of respect

The seed of helplessness

These are the valuable seeds which need to be sown for better fruit 

*4) Seeds can't be kept inside*

All of us know that seeds can't be stored but they have to be sown

Once they are sown in the field, they start to grow and they multiply 

Likewise if we keep the above mentioned values only inside of our life they fail to produce any fruits 

*5) As a sower, where to go out?*

Going out to sow the seeds is very important. But in the spiritual context where to go out and what does this mean 

Sow the above seeds in the family

Sow the seeds in the neighborhood

Sow the seeds in the work place 

Sow the seeds in one's mind and heart 

Sow the seeds in those who work against us 

Sow the seeds in the life of the children

*6)  Am I ready to sow the Seeds?*

To sow the seeds first of all I must have these seeds 

Secondly I must go out to sow the seeds 

Thirdly I must take a risk while sowing the seeds. Because, some seeds will fall on different places. 

Finally I must ready to sow the seeds, in the proper places. 

Am ready ??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Will Jesus stretch out His hand towards me to say, that I am His brother, Sister and Mother?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Tuesday*

*Will Jesus stretch out His hand towards me to say, that I am His brother, Sister and Mother?*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 12:46-50*

*FIRST READING - Mic 7:14-15, 18-20*

*1) Jesus Stretching out His hand towards the Crowd*

The Gospel of the Day, presents to us a scene where Jesus stretches His hand towards the Crowd 

By stretching out His hands, Jesus says these beautiful words *“Here are my mother and my brothers*

These words are very special, because they reveal a special and a very close type of relationship with Jesus 

*2) Its a privilege to become Jesus' Brothers and Sisters*

Since it speaks about a very close relationship with Jesus, it is really a privilege to become Jesus' brothers and Sisters. 

Given a chance all would like to become Jesus' brothers and Sisters 

By becoming Jesus' brothers and Sisters, we remain close to Jesus and we become the members of His family

*3) Requirements to Become His Brothers and Sisters*

In today's Gospel Jesus gives us a magical formula to become His brothers and Sisters 

Jesus says *For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.*

So it is not an impossible task. But every one can do God's will in his/her life and become His Brothers and Sisters 

*4) Will Jesus Stretch out His Hand towards me??*

Today I am in the big crowd among the followers of Jesus 

But the Question is, will Jesus stretch out His hand towards me to say that You are my brother, sister and Mother 

If this becomes a reality in my life, I am really a blessed person. 

*5) Purpose of My Life*

The purpose of my life is to become Jesus' brother, sister or mother. 

Jesus has show the way to become the same

If so will I be ready for the same??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

With what shall I come before the LORD?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Monday*

*With what shall I come before the LORD?*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 12:38-42*

*FIRST READING - Mi 6:1-4, 6-8*

*1) We come before the Lord*

The first reading of the day, calls us to reflect about our coming before the Lord 

Infact  many times a day we come before the Lord 

We start our day by coming before the Lord and we end our day by coming before the Lord 

So coming before the Lord is the central spiritual activity of our Life 

*2) Why we come before the Lord?*

We come before the Lord for various purposes

We come before the Lord to Thank for his boundless blessings 

We come before the Lord, to ask for protection in times of danger 

We come before the Lord, to seek the guidance of the Lord

We come before the Lord, to ask for forgiveness

We come before the Lord, to ask for favours 

*3) With What mentality we should come before the Lord?*

This is a beautiful question, which is found in Today's first reading 

Towards the end of the reading we have an answer for this question. 

The first reading tells us three important things while we go before the Lord 

*Doing Good* First of all it says, one should have the mentality of doing good. We should go with this mentality before the Lord 

*Love Goodness,* This the the second thing we is needed while going before the Lord. One can't love evil, when he/she goes before the Lord 

*Humility* Third important thing which we need, while going before the Lord. A proud hearted man, can't go before the Lord 

*4) With what things I go before the Lord?*

A revengeful heart?

A proud mentality?

A stingy mind?

A gossiping mouth?

A dirty and mean mentality

A selfish heart and mind 

A greedy mind 

Or 

A humble heart 

Forgiving mind 

Sharing attitude

A smiling face 

Genuine personality 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of the House Visits

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 16th Week - Sunday*

*Importance of the House Visits*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 10:38-42*

*FIRST READING - Gn 18:1-10a*

*SECOND READING - Col 1:24-28*

*1) Jesus Visits the House*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the visit of Jesus to Mary and Martha's House 

In other words the Gospel speaks about the House visit of Jesus

House visits appears to be one of the important ministries of the mission of Jesus 

If so we need to know the importance of it 

*2) Importance of the House Visit*

The visit of Jesus to Matha and Mary's house reveals many things about the family 

First of all we came to know how many people are at home and their names

Secondly we see how different people welcome Jesus in different way 

Martha wanted to welcome Him by preparing a grand meal

Mary wanted to welcome Jesus by being with Him and listening to Him 

House visit of Jesus also reveals the difference actions, reactions, and also the nature of the persons 

So there are many truths which are revealed by Jesus' House visits to the house of Mary and Martha 

*3) Jesus spends quality time in the House*

Jesus' visit was not a very short or very casual

He spends quality time with the family members and teaches them the great Truths 

House visit also involves the mission of building the Kingdom of God, by teaching and preaching 

Jesus shows us how one can use the context of house visits to spead the Gospel 

*4) House visit and the Eucharist*

Attending the Mass could be considered and visiting the House of God 

One should spend quality time in visiting the House of God, only then they come to know many things about God and His plan of Salvation

Visiting the House of God should not become a routine work, but it should have a great desire to go and spend quality time in the House 

Visiting the House of God will enrich our life

*5) House visit a beautiful concept*

Visiting house is a beautiful concept because it gives us an opportunity to learn many new things 

It's a occasion to develop a good and friendly relationship with others 

It creates a good neighbourhood and helps us to serve one another in times of need 

*6) House visits Today*

The concept of House visits is slowly vanishing from our culture

All have become busy and involved in too many things an activities. Therefore there is no time for visiting the houses 

Lack of house visits have resulted in becoming strangers to one another 

The neighbour has become the alien to the other 

Life's meaning is only complete in the house visits and in serving 

Without house visits we can't serve the poor and needy, because the poor and downtrodden are found in a little house 

*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 Scapular

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Saturday*

*The Power of the Scapular*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 22:46-50*

*FIRST READING - Zech 2:14-17*

*1) Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Scapular*

July 16, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, would be a good time to begin wearing the Brown Scapular again and to reflect about the importance of it 

Pope John Paul II, recalls how he wore his Scapular from about age 10.  When in May 1981 he was shot, he insisted doctors not remove his Scapular. 

Pope John Paul II says *Never leave home without it.*

John Paul II says  that “the most genuine form of devotion to the Most Holy Virgin, expressed by the humble sign of the Scapular, is the consecration to her Immaculate Heart.*

*2) The important Message of the Scapular*

*A) It shall be a sign of salvation*

This is what we read in the message given by our Blessed Mother, when she gave the Brown scapular to Simon Stock

So this scapular given by Our Blessed Mother works as a instrument of salvation. That is why one Should wear it 

*B) It is a instrument protection in danger*

It works as a instrument of protection especially from the snares of the Devil 

Protection from the desire for worldly things 

Protection from sin and destruction of our Spiritual life 

*C) It Works as a pledge of peace*

All of us desire peace and at times we work for peace 

By wearing this brown scapular of our Blessed Mother, a atmosphere is created to lead a peaceful life 

*D) Whosoever dies wearing this Scapular shall not suffer eternal fire*

This something very special to the Scapular

It works as a instrument to attain eternal life, by protecting us from the eternal Fire 

The above 4 things show us the power of the scapular, and the need of wearing it in our day today life  

*3) About Scapular - Some saying*

*“Many times we’re protected from the Evil One through the scapular.”*

*“The Scapular is such a symbol to the people of Mary’s guidance and protection,”*

*The very fact of a Scapular around one’s neck is a reminder Mary is present with us,”*

*The whole custom of wearing a brown Scapular brings us closer to devotion to Christ*

*4) Feast of the Scapular*

This feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, is also can be called as the Feast of the Scapular

As we celebrate this feast today, May this Holy instrument, help us to live a authentic Christian life and to become more close to Jesus, through our Blessed Mother.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Put Your House in Order

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Friday*

*Put Your House in Order*

*GOSPEL - Mt 12:1-8*

*FIRST READING - Is 38:1-6, 21-22, 7-8*

*1) Put Your House in Order*

This perticular expression comes in today's First Reading 

The Lord through prophet Isaiah tells these words to Hezekiah *Put your house in order, for you are about to die; you shall not recover.”*

So in this context the expression *Put your house in Order* has a special meaning 

*2) Various understanding of this Expression*

First of all the expression *House* can be refered to our own life 

So it is very important pay attention to our own life 

Putting order within ourselves could be understood in the following way 

*A) Put order in your Mind*

Since Mind is the centre of all out thinking, right knowledge, right understanding, right expression is very much necessary. 

So putting order in our minds plays a very important role 

*B) Put order in your Heart*

Heart is the centre of emotions and feelings. Right oder in our heart is very much necessary to know what is good and what is bad 

We can't act only on our emotions. So oder in our heart is very much necessary

*C) Order in our Personality*

Personality is the one which is seen by the others. How do I appear to others 

How do I present myself to others. 

So order in our personality is very important 

*D) Order in our Activities*

We do lot of work from morning till evening. Life is filled with activities. 

Is there a oder in my activities, that is to say, the truthfulness of my activities. Order is very much necessary 

*3) Oder in the Place where we live*

Apart from the oder within ourself, there should reflect a greater order, in the place where I love 

It may be my House 

It may be my working place

It may be my relaxing place 

How is the Order in these places 

*4) The Way Followed by Hezekiah to Put order in the House*

First of all He listened the Words of the prophet carefully

Secondly He turned his face towards the Wall and prayed to the Lord, in a sincere way 

Thirdly He wept bitterly for the Wrong doing and cried for the mercy of the Lord 

He followed these three steps carefully and the order of the House was restored automatically 

*5) Reward for putting the House in Order*

God heard the prayer of Hezekiah

He was blessed with another 15 years of life Span to live and to serve the Lord 

Thirdly The Lord promised that He will be the Shield, who will protect house of  Israel from Assyria. 

The Lord's reward for bringing the order in the house is great 

*6) Internal Order reflects everywhere*

Once the self is in order, all other things automatically take oder 

Oder within the self is the foundation for all things to put it in order 

When the self is in order all other things take their order 

When house is in disorder all other things lose their order

*7) How is the Order of my Life?*

Finally we need to reflect about this issue very carefully

What is the oder in my house or in my life? 

Which are the areas in which I need to put order in my life?

What can I do to put a better order 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*

Yoke a instrument of Unity and not Division

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Thursday*

*Yoke a instrument of Unity and not Division*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 11:28-30*

*FIRST READING - Is 26:7-9, 12, 16-19*

*1) Yoke has the power to Unite*

We have seen the yoke. It is a wooden instrument, which is used to bring two oxen together, either for tilling or for pulling the bullock cart 

It works as a instrument of bring together and helping the animals to do their work in a more efficient way 

It also works as a instrument of unity, which helps the bullocks to share their burden 

*2) Yoke a Instrument of Unity - A Spiritual View*

As we understand that the Yoke as instrument of Unity, it can be seen as spiritual instrument, which can help us to have a stronger unity in the following areas 

*A) God and Man:* Jesus Yoke can help us to have better unity with God 

*B) Man and Neighbour:* It can work as the instrument of having stronger unity between the fellow being 

*C) Man and the Nature* : Jesus yoke can also help us to have a better and perfect unity towards the Nature and also towards all the creatures of the Nature

*D) Man and His self* Jesus Yoke helps us to have a perfect unity between Body and Soul, Mind and Heart, Spiritual and Worldly things 

*3) Various Spiritual Yokes of Jesus*

The following things work as Yoke in strengthening the Unity 

The Yoke of Prayer 

The Yoke of Humility

The Yoke of Truth 

The Yoke of Suffering 

The Yoke of sacrifice

The Yoke of Love 

The Yoke of Forgiveness

The Yoke of Sharing

The Yoke of Generosity

The Yoke of Sincerity

The Yoke of Hardwork

These above yoke help us to strengthen the unity between various above mentioned areas 

*4) Take My Yoke and Learn from Me*

Jesus is very clear in telling us that we need to take His yoke and not the Yoke of anyone else 

It's not enough to take the Yoke but one should make a sincere effort to learn from Jesus, which helps a person in strengthening the Unity 

Jesus' Yoke is not heavy or Unable to accept. He says *For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”*

*5) Whose Yoke is on My Neck/Shoulder?*

It is very important to check about the Yoke, which I am already carrying in my Life

Is it Yoke of greed, power, jealousy, hatred, revenge, gossip, pride, anger, pleasure, laziness, division, selfishness, etc 

My fate will change according to the Yoke I have 

Jesus' Yoke will ease the burden and will strengthen the Unity 

The Wordly Yoke will make a person a slave and create more burden and sufferings

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What is God's Revelation to the Childlike people?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Wednesday*

*What is God's Revelation to the Childlike people?*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 11:25-27*

*FIRST READING - Is 10:5-7, 13b-16*

*1) A need to cultivate a Childlike attitude*

The Gospel of the day calls us to cultivate a child like attitude in our life 

It is necessary to receive the knowledge the hidden things, which only God reveals to us 

A child like attitude is necessary to learn from our Divine Master the facts about the Kingdom of God and also to attain the Kingdom of God 

*2) What are the Revealed Truths?*

The Gospel speaks about the revealed Truths about the Kingdom of God to the Childlike people 

If so what are these truths? We can analyse those truths in the following way 

A) God loves the sinner and He works for his/her salvation

B) Forgiveness is the most powerful instrument in the world. There is no other instrument, greater than this to win the hearts of others 

C) Love is the best power in the lives of human being. It makes our life beautiful

D) The real meaning of life Consists in sacrifice and service. 

Infact Christian spirituality  rests on sacrifice and service

E) Humility is the highest virtue, which makes our life beautiful and meaningful

F) Repentance is the beautiful side of Human life, since it changes our life 

G) Prayer is a very powerful instrument. One can achieve anything in and through prayer 

H) Suffering has a great value in attaining the ultimate goal of life and the eternal life 

*3) My life and Child like attitude*

Have I cultivated the Child like attitude in my Life? 

Only Child like attitude will help us to know the revealed Truths 

Child like attitude helps us to Listen, to belive completely, to follow the Master, to depend on the Master, and to create a open mind to receive everything

If So, am I ready to cultivate a Child like attitude?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

God's mighty deeds done in my Life, had been done in somewhere else, what would have happened??

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week -  Tuesday*

*God's mighty deeds done in my Life, had been done in somewhere else, what would have happened??*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 11:20-24*

*FIRST READING - Is 7:1-9*

*1) Chorazin,  Bethsaida and Capernaum*

These are the three cities which are mentioned in today's Gospel, in the context of Jesus' ministry

Infact Jesus had visited these places many times. He had also performed many miracles in these places 

But the people of these places failed to understand the importance of the miracles and to change thier life 

Ultimately they enjoyed the benefits but forgot to change thier life 

*2) Tyre, Sidon and Sodom*

In these cities also people were living and their life was not edifying

In this context Jesus says that if he had performed the miracles which he had performed in Chorazin,  Bethsaida and Capernaum had performed in Tyre, Sidon and Sodom, they would have changed their life long back 

So Jesus is not happy with the response of Chorazin,  Bethsaida and Capernaum, since they had not changed their life 

*3) Chorazin,  Bethsaida and Capernaum and my life*

Like this above cities, Jesus is busy in performing lots of miracles in my life 

From the moment of birth, till now the amount of blessings we have recieved may not be able to count 

But the question is what changes have taken place in my life? 

*4) If the miracles had been done in some one else's life!*

What will Jesus say, when He looks at my life? 

Will he say, You good and faithful servant, you were faithful in small things so I will give you greater things 

Or will he say, you wicket servant, depart from my eyesight?

Will He say, if the good things done in your life had been done in some one else's life, there would have been better results

*5) Repentance as Response for the miracles*

The Gospel makes it very clear that, repentance is the right response for all the miracles which happen in our life, which are done by Jesus 

Repentance, can change ones life and destiny of Life 

By realising the great miracles in my own life, am I ready to live my life according to Jesus' will?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Need of a Sword to Cut and to Separate

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Monday*

*Need of a Sword to Cut and to Separate*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 10:34—11:1*

*FIRST READING - Is 1:10-17*

*1) The mention of the Sword*

In the Gospel of the day, Jesus speaks about the sword. He says that I have come to bring the Sword

If so what is the need of the sword? Why this sword is needed? What one can do with the Sword? 

If we are able to answer this questions then we understand why Jesus is speaking about the sword 

*2) The Function of the Sword*

The main function of the Sword is to cut and separate

Something which we don't want, we cut and separate it and then we throw it away 

Sword is also used to divide something

At times sword can also a instrument of power and authority 

*3) Jesus is not speaking about the metal Sword*

Usually when we speak about sword, we have the idea of metal Sword 

Jesus is not referring to the metal Sword, but a more powerful sword than metal Sword which can cut many things, which are unwanted in life 

So Jesus' sword is more powerful than any other metal Sword in this world 

*4) The Sword of Jesus*

The Sword of Forgiveness, which can cut any amount of enmity and throw it away 

The Sword of Love can cut the hatred and it can be thrown out through the sword of Love 

The leprosy of greed can be cut from our life through the sword of generosity

The  height of pride can be cut through the sword of Humility

The umbrella of selfishness can be cut by the sword of Sacrifice

The desire for gossip can be cut by the sword of Good News

The pull for laziness can be cut by the sword of hardwork

*5) Jesus' Sword and Division*

The sword which was brought by Jesus, separated many things from our life 

It Separated Eternal life from death 

It Separated love from hatred 

It Separated forgiveness from revenge

It Separated humility from pride 

It Separated simplicity from hypocrisy

Infact it Separates every good thing from the bad. All the bad things are destroyed 

*6) Sword and my Life*

The Sword of Jesus is very much necessary to live our life in a authentic way. 

If so what type of sword i have in my life? 

The sword of Love, forgiveness, humility, sincerity, simplicity, forgiveness, sacrifice, service etc

It's better to have these swords in our life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Difference between the Scholar of the Law and the Samaritan

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 15th Week - Sunday*

*The Difference between the Scholar of the Law and the Samaritan*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 10:25-37*

*FIRST READING - Dt 30:10-14*

*SECOND READING Col 1:15-20*

*1) Scholar of the Law*

As the name itself tells, the Scholar of the law was expert in Law and other things 

That is why when Jesus asked in return *“What is written in the law? How do you read it?”* a gave a beautiful answer 

The answer is *You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”*

To this Answer Jesus says *You have answered correctly*

So it is very clear that He knew how to attain eternal life 

*2) The Samaritan*

He was on a journey. He had his animal, and some things 

Theoretically, we do not know how much he knew about, who is his neighbour? How to help another  and about the great commandment 

In simple words we can say that the Samaritan was a more practical man than a theoretical scholar

*3) The Difference between these two*

The Scholar knew things in a  theoretical way. Samaritan did things in a practical context 

The Scholar goes to Jesus to show his knowledge. Samaritan meets the needy person, with whom he shows the compassion

To the Scholar Jesus said, do this and do like this. In other words Jesus says, to follow the commandments and to live a life in a practical way. 

The Scholar became *zero* The Samaritan became *Hero*

The Scholar came to Jesus to exhibit  His knowledge. The Samaritan showed his compassionate heart to the fallen man  

People regarded scholar is a wise man and Samaritan as ordinary man. Jesus shows that Samaritan as great man and the Scholar as a man who should learn about practical things 

Samaritan is the one who did something. Scholar of the law thinks he has to do something

The Samaritan's approach helped a needy person. The Scholar's approach didn't help anyone 

Scholar was thinking about the eternal life. Samaritan was moving towards eternal life 

*4) Who is Dominating in me?*

Is it the Scholar of the law or the Samaritan? 

Am I a theoretical man or a practical man? 

Do I have something to share with others or do i have only words? 

Am I dominated by words or actions? 

How can I activate the Samaritan nature in me?? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various Ways through which one can Become like Master

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Saturday*

*Various Ways through which one can Become like Master*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 10:24-33*

*FIRST READING - Is 6:1-8*

*1) A Call to become like the Master*

The Gospel of the day gives us a call to become like a Master 

Since this call is coming from the Master Himself one can't ignore this call at any cost 

*2) Jesus Our Great Master*

For us, Jesus is the Real Master 

He is a great Master, to whom one should follow. 

*You call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.* John 13:13

*3) Various Ways of becoming like the Master*

*A) Practice of Forgiveness* 

Jesus the Master is known for Forgiveness. One who is able to practice this forgiveness can become like the Master 

*B) Sacrifice*

Jesus sacrifice His life for the others. One who is able to make some sacrifices can become like the Master

*C) Humility* 

Humility of Jesus is from the manger to the Cross. Great is the Humility of Jesus. 

This is another way to become like the Master 

*D) Courage* 

Courage is the special quality of the Master. Courage to condemn the evil things and to uphold the good things. Ultimately being courageous person one can become like the Master 

*E) Prayer*

Jesus the Master spent His time, by praying and knowing the will of God

By sincere prayer can help a person to become like Master  

*F) Healing Ministry*

One of the main works of Jesus was to heal the sick 

Jesus healed many and they were given a new life 

We too can become like Master by practicing in this healing ministry

*4) My Life*

What are the ways I have to become like the Master? 

How can we practice in the various ways  to become like the Master? 

What are the challenges I have in becoming like Master?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various Wolves, in the Present day Context, Who threaten the existence of the Sheepfold

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Friday*

*Various Wolves, in the Present day Context, Who threaten the existence of the Sheepfold*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 10:16-23*

*FIRST READING - Hos 14:2-10*

*1) The Sheep and the Wolf*

Two animals are mentioned in today's Gospel. 

Sheep is a meek animal. They are usually very quiet and gentle, holding themselves aloof from the world.

In a herd, all the sheep tend to listen to their leaders and show esteem to them.

Because of the obedient character, sheep are among the most popular animals beloved by mankind.

Wolf appears to be very sober animal but they become very ferocious animal.

It is good in pretending when it hunts for its food. 

They are good in fighting and threating the other animals

It apperance itself gives a threat to other animals 

*2) Sheep in the midst of Wolves*

Jesus presents to us a context or a situation, where Sheep and wolves come together

Wolves always target sheep, they attack and kill them for thier food and survival. 

We can apply the same logic to present day situation in our context. 

We can list out the various Wolves who attack the sheepfold of Christ 

*3) The Wolf of Persecution*

This Wolf is wearing the mask of religion and attacking the sheep for wrong reasons 

This Wolf is attacking the sheep without any reason and destroying many things 

*4) The Wolf of Conversion*

This wolf is becoming very powerful today and attacking the Christians everywhere.

It has become a easiest tool to persecute the Christians 

*5) The Wolf of Harrasment*

This Wolf is seen everywhere. Sheepfold is being harassed from all sides 

*6) The Wolf of Polarisation*

This Wolf is trying to weaken the sheep by using the above tool 

It is a tool of dividing and attacking the sheep.

*7) The Wolf of Wrong information/ Media*

This wolf is using the tool of media to spead false information about sheep and to target them 

Media is playing as a tool in the hands to Wolves 

*8) The Wolf of Power*

This wolf is trying to control everything, because it thinks that it has power to do anything. 

*9) The Wolf of Influence*

This Wolf is using the tool of influence to convert the truth into falsehood and falsehood into truth 

This is a very dangerous move. 

So one wolf appears in different clothing, which ultimately, attacks the sheepfold inorder to destroy them 

But so far the wolves have not succeeded in destroying the sheepfold 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus says, No sack, Why?

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Thursday*

*Jesus says, No sack, Why?*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 10:7-15*

*FIRST READING -  Hos 11:1-4, 8c-9*

*1) The Idea of Sack*

Sack is a large bag made of a strong material such as hessian, thick paper, or plastic, used for storing and carrying goods.

In daily life, Sacks are used for different things. At times they become the part and parcel of our life. 

*2) Jesus Says no Sack*

In the context of sending His disciples Jesus says carry no sacks for the journey. 

Naturally the question may arise why Jesus says no sack? 

When we analyse this concept we can get some conclusions, why Jesus said no sack. 

*3)  Various reasons for saying No sack*

*A) It gives a wrong idea about the Mission*

When a disciple of Jesus goes with a bag, people may think that the person has come to take something than giving something

Sack may be understood as the sign that the disciples is expecting in return for the mission He does. Infact one can't expect anything in return for the mission one does for the Lord

Carrying sack to the mission place becomes a counter witness than bearing witness to Jesus 

*B) Sack may create desire for things*

The very fact sack is found with the disciples, he/she will try to fill it with some things which the disciples desires 

So sack becomes a thing of temptation to desire for things from those people for whom he/she proclaims the message 

*C) Sack is the Symbol of attachment for Worldly things*

Since sack is used either storing of things or carrying of things, it is purely related to the material world and not to the spiritual world 

So it is a clear sign that one is more atteched to the Worldly things rather than the spiritual things 

It also shows that one is trusting more about worldly things than the spiritual things 

*4) Taking sack divides ones attention and concentration*

When one is worried about the sack and things in it, one is worried about all the time about the sack and things in it. 

So it divides the attention of the disciples, which results in the compromising in ones mission 

With out full attention and concentration one can't effectively continue the work of the Lord 

*5) Do I carry a sack with me?*

All of us are sent on a mission. So it is necessary to ask this question, do I carry some kind of sack within myself? 

Some of the sacks we are carrying may be the following

Sack of expectations

Sack of appreciation

Sack of name and fame 

Sack of popularity

Sack of attention

Sack of power 

Sack of personal gain 

Sack of feeling great 

These sacks make our mission less effective and superficial

Am I carrying any sack in my life while doing the mission of the Lord???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

House is the Starting Point of our Mission

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Wednesday*

*House is the Starting Point of our Mission*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 10:1-7*

*FIRST READING - Hos 10:1-3, 7-8, 12*

*1) Jesus' Instructions to His disciples about where to go*

The Gospel of the day speaks about Jesus instructing His disciples and sending them for a mission

He first tells them where they should not go

These are the places where they should not go  : Pagan territory and the Samaritan town

*Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town*

Secondly Jesus tells them where to go *Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.*

*2) The Mission and the House*

In the context of sending His disciples to the mission Jesus makes a mention of the House 

It the House of Israel where they should go for mission 

In the house of Israel, they should concentrate on  the Lost Sheep

So this house becomes a very important reference in the context of Mission 

*3) How to understand the House?*

Where a family lives there the house exists

House of Israel is a bigger family, but ultimately it is a family

So Jesus sends His disciples first to the House and then to other places 

*4) The need of putting the House in order*

The command of Jesus to His disciples clearly tells us that first one should concentrate on the House 

Only when the house is in order one can do greater mission 

If the house is not in order the mission suffers 

So there is a great need to repair the house first than anything else 

*5) The Application of the House to different areas*

First of all this house refers to *my own life.* Jesus sends us to check our own life and to repair the house of our self 

Secondly the House refers to my own *Family* One needs to work hard to repair one's family 

Thirdly the Extended family, this includes the neighbourhood, ward, parish and the local community

Finally the House refers to the house of Entire Christian Family 

*6) How is my House?*

What are the things which I have lost in my House? 

Peace of Mind

True vigour for the Lord

Spirit of Prayer 

Sense of unity 

Need of Forgiveness

Spirit of Humility

Sense of Sharing

The value of Sacrifice

It is better to check whether my personal house and the family have lost these values? 

The mission which  begins from home, spreads all over the world 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

A demoniac who could not speak and Can't Speak - Why?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 14th Week - Tuesday*

*A demoniac who could not speak and Can't Speak - Why?*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 9:32-38*

*FIRST READING - Hos 8:4-7, 11-13*

*1) Who is a demoniac?*

Demoniac means relating to or characteristic of a demon or demons.

In other words a person who has the influence of demon or the ways of demons is called Demoniac

Since demon is always identified with evil things demonic is always under the influence of demon and he/she is prone to do evil than good 

*2) Demon didn't allow to speak him*

The demon which was controlling the person didn't allow to speak him. So he was mute. 

Now the question is what type of muteness was this? Or which are the areas this muteness spreads? 

We can identify several areas where this muteness was seen in the life of the Demoniac. 

*3) Various areas which the Demoniac was unable to speak*

*A) Truth* : The Demoniac was not able to speak truth. Demon made the person unable to speak the truth

*B) Forgiveness* : The Demoniac was unable to speak the language of forgiveness. Demoniac was able to speak only the language of revenge and destruction

*C) Love* : The demon didn't allow the person to speak the language of Love 

*D) Sacrifice*: The Demoniac can use only selfish ways and not the ways of sacrifice. To sacrifice,  the Demon makes the person mute and numb 

*E) Humility* The demon is alien to the language to humility. Demons language is Pride and power 

*F) Compassion* The demon becomes mute to the language of compassion. 

*4) The Speaking of the Demoniac*

The Gospel also says when the Demoniac spoke 

*When the demon was driven out the mute man spoke.*

So it's clear that demon was preventing him from speaking thr langauge of love, forgiveness, service, humility, truthfulness, humility etc 

Only when the demon is driven out from our life one can speak 

*5) Demon and my Life*

Am I under the influence of Demon? Or have i become the Demoniac? 

If I am finding difficult to speak Truth, then I am a demoniac 

If I am not able to speak the language forgiveness, love, humility, justice, service, sacrifice, compassion, then it's very clear that I am under the influence of demon and to a certain level I am also a demoniac. 

*6) Only Jesus can Liberate*

In the Gospel it is Jesus who liberates the person from the demon 

So it is only Jesus who can Liberate from Jesus 

Only one thing needed is, either I myself will have to come to Jesus or someone should bring me to Jesus 

Am I ready to come to Jesus??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*