Christian Spirituality consists in Lowering the nets

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

Ordinary Season : 22nd  Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 5:1-11*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 3:18-23*

*Christian Spirituality consists in Lowering the nets*

*1) Jesus' command to Peter to lower the nets*

In the scene of catching the fish by Peter and his company we come across a command of Jesus to Peter 

Jesus says *Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch*

In this context the gesture of Lowering the nets is very important 

How we can this gesture in our life and also in our spiritual life? Is there any deep meaning for this gesture?? 

*2) Lowering nets and obedience*

One of the meanings of lowering the nets would be obedience. 

Since Peter obeyed Jesus, he was ready to lower the net 

*3)Lowering the nets and Humility*

Another meaning of the gesture is humility. 

One who has the virtue of humility is able to lower himself in everything. 

Such a person does not show the attitude of pride and arrogance

*4) Lowering of nets and inward journey*

Another important meaning of lowering nets would be going inside of the person 

Deep waters and lowering of nets would go deep into the sea. 

If the net is lowered only in the deep waters fish would be caught 

Like wise when we go deep in the depth of our life we understand the real worth of our life

Inward journey in ones life will help to find the hidden treasures of life 

*5) Lowering of nets and our own life*

There are many things on our life which we need to lower, in order to produce the fruit 

Need to Lower ones pride 

Need to lower ones arrive

Need to lower one selfishness

Need to lower ones anger 

Need to lower ones attitude of gossip

Need to lower ones worldly attachment

Need to lower ones evil things 

So there are many things to lower in our life to reap the fruit 

*6) Am I ready to lower the nets of my life?*

Lowering of nets also a symbol of sharing

So am I ready to lower my nets of love, generosity, sincerity, sacrifice, service, faithfulness etc 

Unless I lower the nets of my life, I will never able to achieve any thing in my life 

If so,  what the relevance of lowering of the nets 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 importance of Leaving the Synagogue and going to the House of Simon Peter

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 22nd  Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 4:38-44*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 3:1-9*

*The importance of Leaving the Synagogue and going to the House of Simon Peter*

*1) The Significance of Synagogue*

For Jews, synagogue was an important place 

People came to synagogue to listen to the word of God and to pray 

Jesus also went to the synagogue, to preach the word of God and to pray 

We find in today's Gospel that Jesus was coming out of the Synagogue. This tells us that Jesus was there in the Synagogue

*2) Jesus in the Synagogue*

There are many instances in the Gospel where we see Jesus in the Synagogue. 

Jesus went to the synagogue either to pray or the preach the Kingdom of Heaven 

Since many people were coming to the synagogue Jesus used this opportunity to teach and preach the Gospel

*3) Jesus Coming out of the Synagogue*

It is very important to notice Jesus departure from the synagogue and the next destiny 

From synagogue Jesus straight away goes to Simon Peters house in order to heal her from the fever 

In fact Jesus healed her from the fever and she became well 

So the question is, from where did Jesus get the strength to perform this miracle 

So we can naturally conclude that Jesus got this power from prayer 

This line of thinking helps us to conclude that Jesus starts His ministry after spending sufficient time in prayer 

Prayer experience of Jesus and the healing of the mother in law of Peter is closely connected 

So prayer is powerful and responsible for performing the miracles and doing the great works 

*4) The power of Prayer*

The Gospel of the day helps us to understand the power of prayer from the life of Jesus 

In fact there are many instances where Jesus starts His ministry after praying to the Father 

Today's event is one among them, where Jesus after finishing the prayer goes into the healing ministry and we see the miracles

*5) Synagogues in our life*

There are many places today which can be identified with synagogues in our life 

The Church where we spend time in praying 

The Holy and pilgrim centres 

The Altar in our house 

The Ward meetings 

Any gathering, which promotes the unity and solidarity

*6) What happens in our life, aftering returning from prayer*

Jesus after returning from the synagogue, started His ministry, by performing the miracles

What happens to us while returning from the church or pilgrim places 

 Do I  try to live the preached Gospel like Jesus???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The demon threw the man down

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 22nd  Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 4:31-37*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 2:10b-16*

*The demon threw the man down*

*1) The demon who threw the Man*

The Gospel of the day speaks about an unclean spirit, who was causing trouble for a man 

The demon was an unclean spirit, who also tried to destroy the man 

With the intention of destroying the man the demon threw the man down. 

*2) Throwing down by the demon*

Throwing down by the demon symbolises many things 

Humiliating the person 

Not allowing him to do what is right 

Trying to destroy the person 

Trying to create a fearful situation so as the control the person

Not allowing to grow 

Trying to defeat another 

*3) Throwing down in our life*

All of us experience this particular situation

There are many things which throw us down in our life 

The sin throws us down 

Our pride throw us down 

Our arrogance throw us down 

Revenge thrown us down 

Jealousy, selfishness, anger thrown us down 

When we are thrown down by something, we find it difficult to get up and walk straight 

We need the strength of God to regain our strength

*4) The demon and my life*

At times I may work as demon in some ones life 

The moment I try to put down others, for any reasons I act as demon in some ones life 

I may use variety of things to put down others and melign others names 

The moment I put down others I act as demon in some ones life 

*5) The Need of God*

The demon ultimately threw the man on the floor and left 

Demons work is only to put down the others 

But Gods work is to protect us. God never puts us down at any cost 

Even when demon puts us down it is God who holds our hand and lifts us up 

Only God can lift us up and help us to walk straight again 

*6) Our Mission*

We need to thrown down demon in our life 

First of all we should never allow the demon to throw us down 

Secondly we need to throw the demon down. This is the only way through which we destroy the demon from our life

With the help of God we can throw the demon down. So am I ready to throw the demon down from my life???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Herod's Worldly Birthday Vs John the Baptist's Heavenly Birthday

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 22nd  Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mark 6:17-29*

*First Reading : Jer 1:17-19*

*Herod's Worldly Birthday  Vs John the Baptist's Heavenly Birthday*

*1) The Birthday of Herod*

The birthday of Herod becomes the central issue for the event to take place 

The whole party was organised in the context of Herod's birthday. 

Birthday of Herod became an opportunity to organise the Whole event and many more things to Happen. 

*2) The tragedy of Herod's Birthday*

Birthday of Herod would have become one of the best event to celebrate and to enjoy the day 

It started with the same spirit and every one was enjoying the everything that was there in the birthday party 

Suddenly there was a twist to the birthday party. The whole mood of celebration truns into the sad mood because of Herodias. 

Herodias uses this beautiful birthday mood, for something else, which spoils the whole mood of birthday and also of Herod and of his guests 

The Happy mood turns into a sad mood. This is the tragedy of Herod's birthday

*3) The Birthday of Herod and the grudge of Herodias*

Herodias harbored a grudge against John the Baptist for challenging her immoral life. That's why she wanted to kill him

Birthday of Herod was an easy opportunity to take revenge on John. 

Finally she succeeded in beheading the Prophet for challenging her immoral life 

*4) Herod's birthday will remain a sadest  day in His life*

Since John was beheaded on the birthday of Herod, because of Herodias, the birthday of Herod will remain as a memorable day, not because of the good deed, but because of the wicked deed

History will remember for ever, Herod for his evil and wicked deed. 

So birthday of Herod becomes a death day of his conscience and entry into heavenly life 

This is the tragedy of Herod's life 

*5) The Birthday of John the Baptist to Eternal life*

Since John was beheaded on the day of the birthday of Herod, John was born to eternal life on the same day 

The eternal birthday of John the Baptist was more important and valuable than the heavenly birthday of Herod

The heavenly birthday of John the Baptist has no end. Its eternal

It will be celebrated forever because of the importance of the eternal birthday

Eternal birthday is the main aim of our life and we should do all the possible good things to be born into the eternal kingdom

One should consider and value more than heavenly birthday than the Earthly birthday

*6) Earthly birthday and Heavenly birthday in our Life*

Our earhly birthday should become an opportunity to prepare ourselves for the heavenly birthday

We should never allow our earthly birthday as an hindrance for heavenly birthday. 

All of us have a duty to protecting our heavenly birth, and we need to prepare a lot for this event in life 

Let everything happens in our life help us to prepare ourselves for heavenly birth 

*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 Humility

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 22nd  Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 14:1, 7-14*

*First Reading : Sir 3:17-18, 20, 28-29*

*The Power of Humility*

*1) Humility in today's Readings*

The readings of the day, speak about the concept of Humility, its necessity, its power and its beauty 

Humility is a special quality, which one should develop to live a authentic Christian life 

Humility helps a person to reach to the highest level in life and also to live a sincere and authentic life 

*2) Various Explanations of Humility*

The readings of the day give us the variety of explanations about the humility. 

*A) Humility and Love* : A humble person will be loved by every one. He/she will be loved more than the giver of gifts 

*B) Humility and God's favour* : The first reading of the day tells us that a humble person finds with favour of God. He/she will be blessed by the Lord 

*C) Humility and Attentive ear*: Humility in our life fosters the capacity to listen and to understand

*D) Humility and Wisdom* : The reading also shows us that, a humble person is able acquire the greater wisdom, a divine wisdom, which helps us to see what is good and what is bad 

*E) Humility and the First place*

The Gospel speaks about the *first place* which one desires  for various reasons

Humility and First place of Honour, do not go together 

*F) Humility and Higher position*

A humble person by almeans moves towards the higher position. 

*My friend, move up to a higher position.’* This is the example to show humility makes us great. 

*G) Humility and God's exaltation*

Humility in our life makes God to raise our life to a better status. 

One who humbles himself will be considered great in the Kingdom of God 

*H) Humility and Publicity*

Humility and publicity do not go together, because they belong to two different categories

Where there is humility, there is no publicity. Where there is publicity, there is no humility.

*I)Humility and Generosity*

Humility makes a person to become  generous. Humility makes a person more open and to become generous

Such a generous act is recognised by God, He rewards in his own time 

*J) Humility and Reward from God*

A humble person will be rewarded by God. God never forgets to reward a humble person 

*3) The Magic of Humility*

As we see in today's readings, humility has different faces which helps a person to achieve great things in life 

Moreover, Humility unites everyone.

It unites us with God 

It unites us with others 

It unites us with ourselves 

It unites us with nature 

*4) Humility in my Life*

How do I see humility in my life?

Am I a humble person in my approach or am I a arrogant person??

Arrogance is a sickness and it destroys ones life

How can I be more humble and genuine person 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 Fault of the Third Servant

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 25:14-30*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 1:26-31*

*The Fault of the Third Servant*

*1) Third Servant Received only one talent*

According to the Gospel the third servant received only one talent 

This was according to His capacity. So there is no fault of the Master in giving only one talent 

*2) Third servant didn't waste that talent*

It is also important to note that, what he received from the Master he returned it without wasting it 

He didn't use it for his personal gain or for selfish purpose, but kept it safe and returned to the Master

He he was prompt in returning the talent. 

So what was the fault of the third servant? 

*3) The fault of the Third servant*

The Gospel says these things about the third servant. 

A) He was a lazy servant.  He was not ready to work 

B) He didn't take any risk in doing some work. He was a timid person 

C) He buried the talent. Which shows a kind of insult to the master and a kind of arrogance of the servant 

D) He didn't even put the Money into the bank. By investing in the bank at least the owner would have got the interest 

E) The third servant had very negative approach towards the Master. He thought that the Master was very rude and very strick person. He was prejudistic about the Master 

F) He was fearful about the Master. This unreasonable fear made him inactive

G) He lacked motivation to take any initiatives in doing something

*4) Master was not concerned about profit*

When the Master gave the talents he was not only concerned about the Profit

As a experienced master he knew the realities of profit and loss 

Moreover when the third servant had only one talent the risk factor was very high and also the possibility of the Loss

But the master was not very concerned about the profit or loss 

*5) Talent was not given to bury*

This was the greatest mistake of the third servant 

By burying, the third servant prevented all the possibilities of using the talent in an creative way

Something buried can't grow. Only something planted can grow 

Buried talent is equal to dead talent 

*6) Trade first, profit and loss secondary*

When the master gave the talents he only told them to trade. 

Profit or loss is the secondary thing. 

The purpose of the talent is to trade. Profit or Loss is the part of it. 

*7) Use of the Talent is very important*

The master highlights the use of the talents and not the burial of the talent 

Use is first. Profit or loss is secondary. 

By not using the talent the third servant made grave mistakes 

*8) My life and the Third servant*

Like that of third servant we can't bury our valuable talents 

If we make profit is well and good. If we incur loss not a issue 

We need to take risk. Result may be secondary

Like that of third servant one can't bury their talents and skills. They are not given to us to bury. But to utilize them and to spread the values of Christ 

Where do I belong? 

First servant?

Second servant?

Third servant?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Tragedy of the Empty Oil Lamps

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 25:1-13*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 1:17-25*

*The Tragedy of the Empty Oil Lamps*

*1) The Virgins and the Oil Lamps*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the parable of 10 virgins with oil lamps 

Lamp and oil has close relationship. One has no meaning without the other 

The Gospel of the day shows the difference between lamp with oil and lamp without the oil

*2) Empty Oil Lamps and the Foolish Virgins*

Among the Virgins there were two categories. The wise virgins and the Foolish virgins 

Once again the dividing factor between the wise and the foolish virgins, is nothing but the oil and oil lamps 

Those virgins who had oil in their lamps were considered wise and those without the oil in their lamps were considered as foolish 

We can see the importance of oil in this context 

*3) Lamp can't burn without Oil*

Without oil lamp is useless. Lamp without oil has no existence

Lamp is used when there is dark. During the day time lamp is not necessary. 

If lamp is needed in the night, and if it does not work, such lamp has no value at all. 

So taking lamp without oil is foolishness. 

*4) The need of Oil in the night*

No foolish virgins realised the need of oil during the day. They realised only in the night 

Day time the virgins managed without oil. It does not mean that they will be able to manage at night without oil

Day time even the foolish virgins appeared wise, but their real colour came out at night when they needed oil 

Searching the oil at night or at the 11th hour is too late and useless. 

*5) Lessons from the empty oil lamps*

They appreaed good during the day. That does not mean that they will be useful at night 

Empty oil  lamps made the virgins foolish and created a confusion in their lives 

Finally empty oil lamps are useless. Even one tries to fill the lamps, it does not serve the purpose 

Empty oil lamps can give us only empty promises. Result is total failure 

*6) Oil lamp and my Life*

Our life is like a oil lamp. 

The whole life is a time to fill the oil and keep the oil lamp of our life ready 

As long as we are in the world we can some how manage without oil. But as soon as we depart from this life, lamp filled with oil is very much necessary

One can't take the empty oil lamp when one departs from this life or one goes into the eternal life 

One can enter the eternal life only with Burning lamps 

If so, is my lamp filled with oil or empty??

*7) Oil in the lamp of Life*

Oil of forgiveness

Oil of good deeds

Oil of humility

Oil of generosity

Oil of simplicity

Oil of truthfulness

Oil of sincerity

Oil of love 

Oil of prayer

Oil of hard work 

Oil of sharing

Oil of service 

Oil of Kingdom Values

Is my lamp of life filled with oil or empty??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The dual purpose of Staying awake

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 24:42-51*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 1:1-9*

*The dual purpose of Staying awake*

*1) Stay Awake*

The Gospel of the day begins with these two words *Stay awake*

It appears that these two words are so important and has a deep relevance to our life 

So its very important to know the importance of these two words to our life 

*2) Meaning of Stay Awake*

First of all one can understand the meaning of these words in literal sense

Staying awake means, not sleeping. 

In other words staying awake means, being alert at all times or Fully prepared for all times for any casualties, or ready for anything 

*3) Stay awake and the Thief*

The Gospel also speaks about the thief, who will come in an unpected time  

So one needs to be awake and alert to fight with the thief and to chase him/her out from stealing our valuables

The thief here represents the Satan, Devil, Sin and Evil things. They enter into our life like a thief and steal the valuable things from our life 

So staying awake to fight with these thieves is very important

*4) Staying awake and the Master of the House*

The Gospel also speaks about the Son of Man who is the Master of our house/life. 

He will come in an unexpected time. So the duty of the servant is to remain awake and open the door for the master to enter into it  

To open the door and to welcome the Master at any time is not a easy thing. Such work needs alertness, being awake at all times and preparedness

*5) Staying awake in our life*

The same Jesus tells us the same logic *Stay awake*

Stay awake so that we may not fall into temptations

We need to stay awake about our spiritual life 

We need to stay awake about  our family prayers 

 We need to stay awake about  our own weaknesses 

We need to stay awake about  the evil things and the snares of the Devil 

We need to stay awake to pray, to love, to serve, to live a good life, to follow Christ, to humble ourselves, and to live an upright life 

Am I sleeping in my life or alert and prepared for any casualties???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The significance of Jesus seeing Nathanael under the Fig Tree

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 1:45–51*

*First Reading : Rv 21:9b–14*

*The significance of Jesus seeing Nathanael under the Fig Tree*

*1) Jesus sees Nathanael under Fig Tree*

Jesus says to Nathanael *“Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.”*

Here the expression seeing under the Fig tree has some special significance. 

How do we understand this? What is the significance of Jesus seeing under the fig tree? 

Is there any theological significance in it? 

*2) The fig tree and the Messianic Era*

The fig tree was symbolically connected to the coming messianic era (Mic. 4:4, Zec. 3:10, 1 Kgs. 4:25). 

So there is a close connection between the fig and Jesus the Messiah

So, if some one is found under the fig tree means, is the one who is waiting for the Messiah

*3) Nathanael under the Fig tree*

The very fact, Nathanael was found under the fig tree means, he was waiting for the Messiah

So it is possible that every day morning He was spending some time under the Fig tree in prayer and meditation

So the inner most desire of Nathanael was to encounter Jesus the Messiah

*4) Philip tells Nathanael about the Messiah*

When Philip went and told Nathanael, he might have been under the fig tree. 

So Philip knew that Nathanael was eagerly waiting for Messiah

This, may be one of the reasons why Philip immediately runs and tells Nathanael about the Jesus the Messiah

So Philip's reason of telling about the Messiah to Nathanael is clear, from the perspective

*5) Jesus sees Nathanael under the Fig tree*

Jesus might have seen Nathanael literally under the fig tree. This is one possibility

Secondly, through the special supernatural of power which Jesus had, he might have seen, Nathanael under the fig tree 

Thirdly, Jesus might have know the genuine desire of Nathanael, to see the Messiah. That is why Jesus says *Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.*

*6) The fig tree in our Life*

Like Nathanael we too must spend our time under the fig tree, praying and meditating, with the intention of encountering the Messiah

The following divine realities work as fig trees in our life 

The Holy places like, Church, Pilgrim centres, Chapel etc 

The context of celebration of the Eucharist

The celebration of the sacrament of reconciliation

The Holy Scriptures

Prayers and Prayer life 

The Kingdom Values like,  forgiveness, love, truthfulness, fidelity, humility, service, sacrifice, Sharing, Generosity, etc 

*7) Am I ready to be under the Fig tree?*

Like Nathanael, am I ready to spend time under the fig tree? 

Nathanael, spent His valuable time under the fig tree and he found Jesus the Messiah

Like wise, if I follow the method of Nathanael, one is sure that he/she will encounter the Messiah

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Weightier things of the Law

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 23:23-26*

*First Reading : 2 Thess 2:1-3a, 14-17*

*Weightier things of the Law*

*1) Jesus Speaks about the Weightier things of the Law*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the weightier things of the law 

Here weightier things means, more important things. These things we are obliged to observe. 

Jesus mentioned three such things in today's Gospel. 

*2) Justice / Judgement*

Jesus tells us how important it is to observe the aspect  of justice. 

Justice is nothing but, *giving each person what he or she deserves or, in more traditional terms, giving each person his or her due.*

Justice and fairness are closely related terms that are often today used interchangeably. 

*Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.” (Psalm 89:14).*

So we can understand the importance of justice in our life 

Today many are suffering because of injustice is done to them 

*Delayed justice is denied justice* This quote also highlights the importance of justice

*3) Mercy*

Mercy is another important thing, which is highlighted by Jesus, in this context

Mercy is also a weightier thing in the Law and one needs to observe it

God's another name is Mercy. Only a merciful heart and feel for others and can save others. 

When there is no mercy, we cease to exist as human beings. We become heartless people without mercy 

Mercy is nothing but, *compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.*

Am I able to show a compassionate heart towards others 

*4) Fidelity*

Jesus also speaks about the fidelity in ones life 

Fidelity means remaining faithful to a person, cause, or belief

Jesus remained faithful to His Father in all situations. 

Without fidelity life becomes chaos. Fidelity to God and one another  is the foundation of our life 

One who is faithful can succeed in Life 

*5) My life and weightier things*

As we reflect these most important things in our life, how do they influence my life? 

What is the role of these things in my life? 

Do I compromise these things and give importance to other less weightier things in my life? 

The moment we bypass these weightier things in life, we become hypocrites. 

What will Jesus call me? A faithful servant or a hypocrite

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Locking of the Kingdom of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 23:13-22*

*First Reading : 2 Thes1:1-5, 11-12*

*Locking of the Kingdom of God*

*1) Is it possible to lock the Kingdom of God?*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the locking of the Kingdom of God. 

Jesus says *You lock the Kingdom of heaven before men. You do not enter yourselves, nor do you allow entrance to those trying to enter.*

So the question is, is it possible to lock the Kingdom of God??

*2) Locking of the Kingdom of God*

When something is locked, the access to such things is not available

Locked things remain closed from us. Neither we can get in or something from inside can come out 

So when someone locks the Kingdom of God, one blocks the entry to the Kingdom of God, and one is unable to receive anything from the Kingdom of God 

*3) Circumstances in which the Kingdom of God gets locked*

When one willfully does something wrong 

It means with full knowledge and understanding when one does the evil things in life, the kingdom of God gets locked from us and we will be unable to enter into it

*4) Double effect of Locking the Kingdom of God*

The Gospel speaks about two things in the context of locking of the kingdom of God

First of all, by locking one will lose the opportunity to enter and to experience the Kingdom of God. It happens with one who locks the Kingdom of God 

Secondly, the person who locks the kingdom of God, does not allow others to enter into it. He becomes an obstacle for others in entering and experiencing the Kingdom of God  

This is more dangerous because here one spoils the life of another 

*5) Kingdom of God in my Life*

How do I approach the Kingdom of God 

We enter the Kingdom of God, by doing the Following things 

When we forgive 

When we Love

When we serve 

When we sacrifice

When we stand for truth 

When we help someone

When we live a good life 

When we are sincere in life 

When we humble ourselves

When we pray Earnestly

When  we are geverous 

These are the values which help us to unlock the Kingdom of God and to enter into it

*6) Unlocking the Kingdom of God*

This is one of the important aspects 

Our purpose of life is to enter into the  kingdom God 

By doing good works we can unlock the Kingdom of God and we can enter into it 

Am I ready to unlock the Kingdom of God for my sake and for others??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why we have to enter through the Narrow Gate

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 13:22-30*

*First Reading : Is 66:18-21*

*SECOND READING - Heb 12:5-7, 11-13*

*Why we have to enter through the Narrow Gate*

*1) Jesus on Narrow Gate*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the  narrow gate and its significance to our life 

Jesus says, *Strive to enter through the narrow gate*

One who gets the Narrow gate, will reach to his/her final goal 

*2) Narrow gate leads to Heaven*

From the Gospel it is clear that Narrow gate leads to heaven 

It is a best way to achieve perfection in our life, which ultimately helps us to go to heaven 

*3) Narrow gate makes us alert* 

One who passes through the narrow gate is always alert. 

Unless one is alert one can't pass through the narrow gate, because there are challenges in the narrow way, which one has to face

Alertness is the great quality in life, which is also referd in today's Gospel

*4) Narrow gate leads us to the right destiny*

Since Jesus says that the narrow gate will lead us to attain eternal life. It shows the right destiny

By moving through the narrow gate one will not miss the way to the right destiny

*5) Passing through the Narrow gate in my Life*

The gate of sacrifice

The gate of truth 

The gate of humility

The gate of love 

The gate of sharing 

The gate of forgiveness

The gate of generosity

The gate of service 

The gate of peace 

The gate of simplicity

The gate of harwork 

The gate of Prayer 

All these, above mentioned things  are the examples of Narrow Gate, which leads to eternal life

*Am I ready to pass though the narrow gate??*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Taking the seat on the Chair of Moses

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 23:1-12*

*First Reading : Ez 43:1-7ab*

*Taking the seat on the Chair of Moses*

*1) Chair of Moses*

Moses’ seat is a name given to a special chair of honor in the synagogue where the authoritative interpreter of the law of Moses was seated. 

In a symbolic sense, sitting in Moses’ seat meant teaching from the books of Moses, the Pentateuch – the first five books of the Bible. 

The scribes were recognized as the exegeses of the law of Moses (Matt 23:2) while the Pharisees were the spokesmen for the unwritten oral law or tradition.

*2) Seating in Moses' chair means the Responsibility*

This is not only the place of position and dignity, but it highlights the gravity of Responsibility of the person who sits in it 

It is not enough to peach and teach from the Chair of Moses but it is very important to live ones life according to the demands of the Chair of Moses

The Chair of Moses mainly highlights the importance of service to others. Chair is for service and not service for Chair 

*3) Requirements of the Chair*

One who sits on the chair of Moses needs to fulfil the following things

Should be a upright person

Need to practice in life what one preaches to others 

Need to guide people in the Right direction

Need to take risk for the sake of the people of God 

Need to be a service minded person 

Need to inspire people to do good 

Need to face challenges and at times persecution from others 

*4) Moses' seat in our daily Life*

All of us, in one way or the another, are seated on the chair of Moses

So we need to live like Moses, who always listened to God, and obeyed Him. 

 Here Chair only highlights about the responsibility that we have to do, in our families and in the surroundings. 

*5) Misuse of the Chair*

The Scribes and Pharisees misused the chair of Moses

Moses' Chair had a great dignity and authority. Scribes and Pharisees used this authority to control people and to enjoy the maximum benefits 

*6) How will I use the Chair?*

One of the important questions to reflect about our own life and the Chair 

When one gets the Chair the real nature comes out. 

What is the role of chair in my life? 

Why the Chair of Moses is important to my life??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why the Love commandment is the Greatest and First

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 22:34-40*

*First Reading : Ez 37:1-14*

*Why the Love commandment is the Greatest and First?*

*1) God is Love*

*God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him* 1 John 4:16

Love is another Name for God. God is Love is one and the same. There is no difference between these. 

So where there is Love, there is God, and where there is Love there is God 

So Love becomes the Foundation for everything

*2) Jesus Came to this World because of Love*

*God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.* John 3:16

The primary reason why God sent His Son and Jesus came to this world is nothing other than Love 

Love, motivates God to send His Son and Jesus to come into this world 

So one can imagine the power of *Love* 

*3) There is no greater Love than to lay down ones life*

Jesus say *There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.* John 15:13

Once again we see the greatness of Love, which makes a person to sacrifice his life for another 

Jesus died on the Cross because of Love, because he Loved us 

So Love becomes the force for everything

*4) Love is the Foundation for relationship*

There is nothing other than love, which is responsible for relationship

Love is the main force in the relationship between God and Human beings 

Humans beings can relate and stay together only if there is Love. If there is no love, no relationship is possible

*5) Life Begins with Love*

Every Life has its beginning in Love 

Love between Man and Woman is responsible for new life 

Without love No new life is possible. It is the foce of Love, which creates new life. So love has the power to create new life 

*6) Commandment of Love is the greatest and the First*

Jesus says this fact in today's Gospel. 

The reasons for the above statement of Jesus is very much reflected in the Scriptures and in our life

Since, no life or activity is possible without love, this commandment becomes first and the greatest 

Love is the Foundation for everything. So commandment of Love is greatest and first 

*7) Commandment of Love in my life*

How do I experience this first commandment of Love? 

What type of Love I have in my life? 

Is it self centered love or other centred love?

Is it a God centred love or Things centered love?

Is my love motivated by gains or Sacrifices? 

What is ruling my life? Is it genuine Love or Self centred Selfishness??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

New Heart Vs Stony Heart

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 22:1-14*

*First Reading : Ez 36:23-28*

*❤️New Heart  Vs Stony Heart❤️*

*1) Two types of Hearts*

The first Reading of the day speaks about two types of Hearts a) New Heart b) Stony heart

All of us know the heart and its nature. Without heart one can't survive

So what is the understanding of the Stony heart?  How does a heart become a stony heart? 

*2) God has given us a Golden heart*

To all of us God has given a beautiful heart, which is like the heart of God 

Such a heart is able to understand, able to feel and act like God. 

As we grow in our life, we fail to maintain this Golden heart, and it finally becomes a stony heart 

*3) The Nature of the Stony heart*

A heart which is full of anger, jealousy, revengeful feelings, pride,  falsehood, hatred, gossip, and other evil things, could be considered as stony heart 

Stony heart does not allow anything to grow and to yield fruits 

*4) Removal of stony hearts*

The first reading of the day speaks about the removal of a stony heart and giving them new heart by God 

Removal of the stony heart in needed to place a new heart which is very useful for our growth

*5) Placing of New Heart*

First of all as long as the stony heart is found, no other heart can enter. The removal of the stony heart results in placing of the New Heart. 

New Heart is placed by God Himself. 

New heart is the presence of God within ourselves 

*6) How is My heart?*

God had given me a heart when I was firmed in mothers womb. 

today the same heart, because of the circumstances and other issues, has lost its originality. It might have become like a stony heart 

If so we must allow God to replace our heart with new heart to live a holy life   

Has my heart become a stony heart? 

Am I ready to allow myself to be replaced by new heart 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Labourers Logic is Unreasonable

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 20:1-16*

*First Reading : Ez 34:1-11*

*Labourers Logic is Unreasonable*

*1) They agreed for days wage*

When the land owner hired the labourers, he fixed a reasonable wage for the day 

The labourers agreed for the days wage and then they went for work 

So there isn't any dispute with regard to the days wage 

*2) Labourers didn't complain about the less payment*

When they came to collect the days wage, they received the amount as they agreed upon 

They exactly got the amount for which they had agreed. So there isn't any injustice done to the labourers. 

Neither any of the labourer is complaining about the less amount of payment 

Since no one was paid less, there is no room for dispute 

*3) What is the real dispute*

There is no dispute that they are paid less. In fact they had been given the days wage for which they had worked. 

The labourers had problem here *These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us*

Making equal to them in spite of the less amount of work was the real challenge to the labourers, which they could not accept 

In other words, the labourers failed to see the goodness and greatness of the landowner, for being generous towards the last ones 

The labourers saw only that, which benefited their selfish interest and not the wellbeing of the other 

*4) Landowner was over generous*

From the passage its very clear that the Landowner was over generous. 

He could have given less amount to the last workers. But he gave them more than what they deserve 

Here we see the over generosity of the owner and not the injustice. 

*5) Gentle reminder for us to become generous like the landowner*

Today's parable calls us to practice the generosity of the landowner

It is a real challenge to treat every one in a equal way. But the landowner did it. For him all were important

The landowner didn't see the hours of work, but saw their personality. 

What do we see in others? 

Hours of work 

Usefulness

Productivity

Only monitory gains? 

Or a genuine and sincere person, who can inspire me to become more effective

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*

If Camel can Pass through the eye of a needle, then nothing is impossible in life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 19:23-30*

*First Reading : Ez 28:1-10*

*If Camel can Pass through the eye of a needle, then nothing is impossible in life*

*1) Camel and the Eye of a needle*

In today's Gospel, Jesus speaks about the camel and the eye of a needle. 

Jesus says that it is not impossible for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle

We know the size of the camel and the size of the needle. 

It appears that it is impossible for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle. 

But Jesus says that the camel can pass though the eye of a needle. If so nothing is impossible in life. 

*2) The Eye of a needle Gate in Jerusalem*

It is said that The "Eye of the Needle" was a narrow gateway into Jerusalem.

Only during the day the main Gate of Jerusalem was opened and at night it was closed. Night only the small gate was kept open to enter into Jerusalem

Since camels were heavily loaded with goods and riders, they would need to be un-loaded in order to pass through.

Therefore, the analogy is that a rich man would have to similarly unload his material possessions in order to enter heaven.

*3) Narrow gate into Heaven*

Jesus says *Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.* (Mathew 7:13-14.)

Since the gate leading to heaven is very narrow, one can enter only by adjusting ourselves to the narrow gate 

So one has to unload many things to fit oneself to the narrow gate 

*4) Rich man and Narrow gate*

Jesus says that a camel can enter through the eye of of needle but not the rich man. But Jesus didn't say that it is impossible

A camel which is near the gate of a eye of needle is ready to unlaod all the luggage and ready to enter through the narrow gate

Like wise if the rich man is able to unload all the luggage, then he/she can enter easily into the kingdom of Heaven

*5) Am I a overloaded Camel??*

A camel which is overloaded can't pass through the eye of a needle. It has to unload all the luggage

Likewise at times our life is like a overloaded camel, which is unable to enter through the eye of a needle

The following thjngs we need to unload from our life 

Anger

Jealousy

Pride

Revenge

Selfishness

Greed

Desire for worldly things 

Gossip

Unfaithfulness

Attitude of arrogance

Unless we unload this baggage, we are unable to enter into the eye of a needle

*6) Eye of a needle is a heaven's Gate*

All those who have to go to heaven will have to pass through this Gate 

There is no other gate than this to enter into the kingdom of God 

Unless we make ourselves fit into this gate, we are unable to enter into Heaven 

So, am I ready to unload my extra unwanted luggage???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various Reasons for The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven

https://gospelthoughtsdaily.blogspot.com/

*GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week : Monday*

*Solemnity of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary*

*Gospel : Lk 1:39-58*

*First Reading : Rev 12:1-6a, 10ab*

*SECOND READING -1 Cor 15:20-27*

*Various Reasons for The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven*

*1) Mary was taken up to heaven - Body and Soul*

It is only Mary who was taken up to heaven body and Soul 

This is something special, a favour which was granted, especially to Mary 

If so, we can reflect about the logic behind this truth. 

*2) Various Reasons for The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary*

*A) Mary's Sevice minded attitude*

This is one of the reasons why Mary was given the privilege of assuming into Heaven 

The Gospel also presents to us the value of Mary's service to Elizabeth and in the Wedding at Cana

*B) Humility of Mary*

Mary had great amount of Humility. She practically humbled herself before God in everything. That is why she was granted this favour 

*C) The Courage of Mary*

The mission which was given by God to Mary was one of the challenging missions 

It needed a great amount of courage. Mary had such a courage and that is why she was able to accomplish the mission 

*D) A body which gave birth to Jesus*

Mary's body has a very special significance, because it was the body which gave birth to God's Son 

Such a holy body can't see the decay. So it was taken up to heaven 

*E) The Deep faith of Mary*

Mary's faith was very deep. Even in the midst of crisis or difficult challenges, she never doubted the Providence of God. Such a faith led her attain this special privilege. 

*3) A call to Imitate our Blessed Mother*

As we celebrate the feast of The Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary, it is genuine and direct invitation to all if us to imitate our Mother 

By imitating her, we can live and holy and fruitful life, which will help us to go to heaven

Our Blessed Mother always guides us in our journey towards the eternal abode 

*4) My life and the Challenges*

As we celebrate The Assumption, am I ready to follow the values of the Kingdom of God, to live and holy life 

By following our Blessed Mother one can surely attain the place in heaven 

What are the challenges I have in following the foot steps of our blessed Mother? 

Am I ready to make some sacrifices to live the values of our blessed Mother in my life??

Let our heavenly Mother help us to experience the real inner freedom, on the Independence Day of our country.

*🌹Happy Independence Day 🌹*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Division for the sake of the Kingdom of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 20th Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:49-53*

*First Reading : Jer 38:4-6, 8-10*

*SECOND READING - Heb 12:1-4*

*Division for the sake of the Kingdom of God*

*1) Jesus speaks About the Division*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the Division. 

He says *Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.*

So it is very important to understand the meaning division in order to know the relevance of it in our life 

*2) How to understand the Division*

Unusually, division means, separating something from something

The result of division is something is kept apart and the other half becomes the opposite to the first half

*3) Jesus and the Division*

In fact the life and mission of Jesus consists in division for the sake of the Kingdom of God 

Jesus divides the Good from evil 

Jesus divides the truth from untruth

Jesus divides holiness from sin and its effects 

Jesus divides the Satan from the Children of God 

Jesus divides the forgiveness from the revenge 

Jesus divides the humility from pride 

Jesus divides the  service from the Power

Jesus divides the sacrifice from the selfishness 

Jesus divides the heavenly things from the earthly things 

Jesus divides the life from death 

Jesus divides love from hatred 

Jesus divides saving from destruction

So there is a division in everything, which ultimately help us to destroy evil and to build the Kingdom of God 

*4) Christian Spirituality consists in Division*

We are not taking about the division which ultimately destroys everything

We are taking about the division where evil is destroyed and goodness is built 

So Christian spirituality finally consists in Dividing ourselves from evil and clinging in to good 

The spirituality of Division is very important to live a good and holy life. 

Unless there is a division one can't see any changes in life. Change of heart and mind depends on the division 

*5) Am I ready for Division?*

Am I ready to divide my  life? 

Dividing from evil things? 

Dividing from gossip, hatred, jealousy, selfishness, temptations of the flesh, pride, revenge, etc. 

Unless my life is divided from the above mentioned things, there is no change in my life, and I can't build the Kingdom of God. 

 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*

Blessing and Praying Hands are beautiful

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 19:13-15*

*First Reading : Ez 18:1-10, 13b, 30-32*

*Blessing and Praying Hands are beautiful*

*1) Children were brought to Jesus*

The gospel of the day speaks about the Children who were brought by their parents to Jesus

The intention of the parents was  that the children would be blessed by Jesus 

*2) Jesus Prays and Blesses the Children*

When Children came to Jesus, He placed His hands on them, prayed for them and blessed them 

All these things He did through His hands. 

So today we see the beautiful hands of Jesus which were placed on children and gave them a divine Blessing

*3) The Purpose of Our hands*

From the Life of Jesus we can very conclude that, one of the important purposes of our hands is nothing but to pray and to bless others 

That's why it is said that *Praying and Blessing hands are beautiful than anything else*

*4) Praying and Blessing hands do not harm others*

Many people use their hands to harm others and to do evil things 

But the praying and blessing hands will never do a damage to others 

As they are inspired by divine power, they do good to the self and also to others 

*5) Deeper meaning of Blessing*

Blessing is nothing but *Seeking God's favour and Protection*

So when we bless some one, they should feel that they are favoured and  protected in some way or the other 

So all our actions which lead rendering some favour to the needy and assuring some protection when they are in need is equal to a blessing 

So our blessings should not be only at the level of lip service, which has no much meaning in life 

*6) My Praying and Blessing hands*

How do I use my beautiful hands which were given to me by God? 

How many feel favored and protected through my hands? 

How do I take care of Praying and blessing hands? 

What are the obstacles for my praying and blessing hands??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

God's call to establish a unbreakable Relationship with others

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 19:3-12*

*First Reading : Ez 16:1-15, 60, 63 or Ez 16:59-63*

*God's call to establish a unbreakable Relationship with others*

*1) The Covenant of Marriage*

The Gospel of the day, speaks about the covenant of marriage 

One of the striking points which we see in the discussion between Jesus and Pharisees about the nature of the relationship in Marriage covenant

Jesus shows that, it is the unbearable relationship which was established by God Himself 

*2) Need of Unbreakable Relationship*

Human beings can't live without relationship. 

The nature of the human being is such that he/she has to relate with others 

If so, this relationship can't be of silly nature. It has to last long and it has to be permanent

This permanent nature of relationship is equal to unbreakable relationship

*3) Our Relationship with God*

The Marriage relationship is a reflection of Our relationship with God

As Jesus shows, that the marriage relationship is unbreakable, our relationship with God must be unbreakable. 

We should develop such a relationship with God, which should remain forever 

*4) Unbreakable relationship in every walk of life is necessary*

The unbreakable relationship should be reflected with every type of our relationship 

This could include 

Our relationship with God

Our relationship with Neighbors

Our relationship with the nature 

Our relationship with our friends 

Our relationship with our family members

Our relationship with our duty and responsibility

Our relationship with every one 

*5) Various things which cause damage to the relationship*

There are many things which destroy the beautiful relationship

Our greed for things 

Our misunderstandings

Our prejudices

Our preconceived ideas 

Our wrong judgements

Our high expectations

Our lack of faith and trust in others 

*6) How do I relate with others*

Do I take for granted the aspects relationship?

Do I expect that others should adjust with my way of dealing with others?

Do I respect the others way of relationship? 

Do I relate only for my personal gain or selfish motives?? 

What is the motive behind my relationship with others?? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We are Debtors before God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 18:21–19:1*

*First Reading : Ez 12:1-12*

*We are Debtors before God*

*1) Accounts and Debtors*

The Gospel of the day, presents to us the concept of accounts and Debtors.

The King is checking the accounts and there are many debtors who were appearing before the King 

The Gospel presents that the King is very kind and understanding towards His debtors and He was ready to settle the accounts without payment

This shows the large heart of the King and His personality

*2) Life can be seen in terms of Accounts*

The principles of accounting are very well reflected in our life 

The concepts of accounts and debtors have close link to our life 

These concepts will give us the real picture of our life and our real position 

*3) We are all debtors*

God is the King and we are all debtors. 

As debtors we have practically  received everything from our King 

The List of received things could be endless. Even then some of the important things could be mentioned. They are the following

As debtors we have received life from God 

As debtors we have received the gift of speech, sight, capacity to hear, intellect, reasoning power, skills, talents, courage, love, various emotions, feelings, etc 

So everything we have received from God, and we are debtors before God 

*4) Duty of the Debtors*

The debtors have to try their level best, in a sincere way to settle the accounts, by repaying what they have taken from the King 

In difficult situations, the debtors have the obligation to inform the the King the inability of repaying of the debt 

At the same time the debtors have the duty to apply the same principles of the King towards their debtors

*5) What type of Debtors I am?*

A responsible and very sincere one?

A greedy debtors?

A ungrateful debtors?

A debtor who takes advantage of the goodnees and generosity of others 

A debtor, who accumulates everything with greed 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Nature of the Grain of Wheat is to die and to produce the Fruit

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 12:24–26*

*First Reading : 2 Cor 9:6–10*

*The Nature of the Grain of Wheat is to die and to produce the Fruit*

*1) Grain of Wheat*

The Gospel of the day, makes a mention about the grain of wheat 

Jesus teaches us a great and a practical lesson from the grain of wheat 

The functioning of the grain of wheat and our life has close connection, which can be analysed in the following way 

*2) The Functioning of the Grain of Wheat*

Once the grain of wheat falls to the ground, it automatically starts sprouting. 

One can't stop the grain of wheat from the sprouting process. It is natural for the grain of wheat to sprout and to produce the fruit 

In the process of sprouting, the grain of wheat loses its original form, which is called the death of the grain wheat, which ultimately results in new life and new fruit from the same grain of wheat 

*3) Grain of wheat and Our life*

The mission of our life is similar to that of a grain of wheat 

In this world, our life is equal to the grain of wheat. God has sown this grain of seed in this world, in the form of our life 

Accordingly, dying to the self and producing much fruit must be the natural consequences of our life on this world 

So the purpose of our life is to produce much fruit, a fruit, which lasts for ever 

As the grain of wheat dies to produce much fruit, we need to die to ourselves to produce the lasting fruit, in the Kingdom of God. 

*4) St Lawrence and the Grain of Wheat*

The life of St Lawrence, in its true senses corresponds to the life of grain of wheat 

Like Grain of wheat, He allowed himself to fall in the vineyard of the Lord, to produce much fruit 

The Martyrdom of St Lawrence could be considered as, dying of grain of wheat, which later produced much fruit 

Even today, the Life of St Lawrence is an inspiration to all of us, in producing the spiritual fruit,  by following the methodology of the grain of wheat in our daily life 

*5) The Grain of Wheat, undergoes a process, Silently*

The entire process in the life of grain of wheat, undergoes silently 

No sound, no publicity and no seeking of attention. It is a silent process 

What about in my life? Is it a silent process or a process which includes lot of publicity and seeking of attention?

Am I able to see the great lesson from the grain of wheat, which we often use. 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We need to take care ourselves, not to despise Anyone

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt  18: 1-5, 10, 12-14*

*First Reading : Ezekiel 2:8 - 3: 4*

*We need to take care ourselves, not to despise Anyone*

*1) What is Despising Others*

In the Gospel of the Day, Jesus speaks about despising others and especially the little ones 

Despising means having a strong feeling of dislike, or a feeling of hatred or inferior feeling about others 

So we need to understand the importance of this sentence, which has got a deep implications in our lives 

*2) One needs to take care about, despising others*

Jesus says, *Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones*

Taking care here means, one has to be alert about this feeling, because feelings of dislike, and hatred, are closely associated with human nature 

If we are not careful, then these feelings may over power us and destroy our lives  

*3) Who are Little ones in the Gospel*

In today's context, even though the Gospel speaks about the little Children, the little ones has deeper meaning. 

The deeper meaning could be seen in the following ways 

Little ones means the poor, sick, uneducated, socially oppressed group based on colour, culture, language, the exploited ones in the society.

*4) Why one Should not despise the Little ones*

Since these little ones are favoured by God, despising these little ones would result in despising God Himself 

Secondly, God always takes the side of Little ones. So despising these little ones would result in fighting against God Himself, which will be dangerous to our life 

*5) End Results of despising the little ones*

One will not become great in the Kingdom of God. He/she will be least in the Kingdom of God. Such least ones may find very difficult to enter into the Kingdom of God 

Secondly, despising ones will find very difficult to Change their heart and mind. Jesus says *Unless you change and become like Children you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven*

Thirdly, the despising person will go astray and it will be difficult find him and to bring back to God's fold 

*6) Despising, and my life*

Do I despise any one in my life? 

If I am despising some one, what would be the reasons behind it? 

Some of the reasons for despising the little ones may be following

-Jealousy

-Fear of losing ones popularity and authority

-To keep them under ones control 

-To destabilise some one. So that they don't come up in life 

-When some one becomes a challenge, one despises the other 

-The greed for money, authority, power, position, name, popularity can lead some one to despise the other. 

Which are the aspects which compel me to despise another??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We are Subjects of Heaven, foreigners on Earth

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 17:22-27*

*First Reading : Ez 1:2-5, 24-28c*

*We are Subjects of Heaven, foreigners on Earth*

*1) Subjects and Foreigners,*

The Gospel of the day speaks about two concepts: They are Subjects and foreigners,

Subjects refer to the people who belong to the Kings rule and Foreigners, refer to the people out side kings rule 

These two concepts have deeper meaning for our life 

*2) We are foreigners, here on Earth*

St Paul says *we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives* Philippians 3:20

This point of St Paul says that we are subjects of Heaven and foreigners in this World 

It is very important to realise this fact, so that we are careful to live our life according to the standards this state 

*3) Subjects of Heaven* 

We are subjects of Heaven, so we are under the Rule of Jesus 

The Subjects of Heaven are free from paying taxes. So we are not slaves but free children of God 

The Subjects of Heaven have some privileges which others can't enjoy

So we need to be grateful to God for this blessings 

*4) Duty as Foreigners*

Jesus was a foreigner on this earth. That's why he paid the taxes. In other words He fulfilled his duty towards the Nation 

As foreigners on this earth we too have certain  obligation to fulfill.

So we need to fulfill these obligations

*5) Advantages of Being subjects of Heaven*

Since the Subjects are free, there are lots of benefits 

We get the Blessings of God, free of cost 

Forgiveness is free of cost 

Divine Providence is free of Cost 

Holiness is free of cost

Divine experience is free of cost 

Divine healing is free of cost 

 Eternal life is free of cost 

*6) What is my Awareness??*

Have I realised that I am subjects of Heaven? 

As a foreigner on this world, do I live my life as the subjects of this world??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Gather the Treasure which Thief can not Steal

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 19th Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:32-48 or 12:35-40*

*First Reading : Wis 18:6-9*

*Second Reading: Heb 11:1-2, 8-19 or 11:1-2, 8-12*

*Gather the Treasure which Thief can not Steal*

*1) Gathering of the Treasures* 

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the gathering of the treasures which thief is unable to steal 

Where there is treasure, there is a always a danger of thief. 

But Jesus speaks about a special kinds of treasures which the thief is unable to steal 

If so what are these treasures? 

*2) Generosity*

Jesus says *Sell your belongings and give alms.*

Such a gesture creates a treasure in heaven, where thief can't reach 

*3) Faithfulness* 

Jesus says *Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so*

Such a faithfulness creates a treasure in heaven where the thief can't reach 

*4) Alertness*

Jesus also speaks about this quality. 

A person who is alert always watchful about the thief. When a person is alert, thief can't steal anything. 

So alertness is a great quality, which makes us  careful about everything

*5) What are my treasures?*

The Gospel of the day calls us to cultivate the following qualities, which the thief can't steal from us 

Faithfulness

Generosity

Service 

Humility

Duty Consciousness

Love

Sacrifice 

Are these above treasures found 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*

Solemnity of the Transfiguration of the Lord

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 18th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:2–10*

*First Reading : Dn 7:9–10, 13–14*

*Second Reading : 2 Pt 1:16–19*

*Solemnity of the Transfiguration of the Lord*

*The Problem of the Sleep and the Transfiguration*

*1) Transfiguration and Sleep*

Today as we celebrate the feast of Transfiguration, let us reflect about the Concept of Transfiguration of Jesus and the Sleep of the Disciples

Jesus went up to Mount Tabor for prayer. 

When we went to the mountain He also took with Him, His beloved disciples, Peter, James and John 

At Mount Tabor Jesus spent time in prayer and as He was praying, Transfiguration of Jesus took place 

*2) Disciples and the Sleep*

The Gospel shows us that the Disciples, as they reached the mountain were tired. 

When Jesus was spending time in prayer, the disciples were at sleep 

They could not remain awake and pray along with Jesus

Since Jesus was praying, the Disciples should have spent time in prayer. But they were busy in sleeping and taking rest

*3) The Glory of Jesus during Transfiguration*

When Jesus was transfigured, *his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white.*

Mosses and Elijah appeared in Glory 

The Atmosphere filled with the presence of God,  and there was heavenly Glory in Mount Tabor

*4) Sleep as an obstacle for the Divine Experience*

Since the Disciples were sleeping they were unaware about the great things which were happening at mount Tabor 

Secondly they Lost that beautiful opportunity, to witness this great event by being attentive during the event 

When they Got up, the heavenly figures Mosses and Elijah were about to depart 

The disciples could not participate in the discussion about the future plan, which was discussed by Mosses, Elijah and Jesus 

So because of Sleep, they lost many spiritual gifts

*5) Sleep a bodily weakness*

The disciples found very difficult to remain awake and pray 

It was a bodily weakness which led them to lose some important spiritual gifts 

At times bodily weaknesses can cause great harm in our Spiritual life. 

*6) Sleep as a weakness and our Life*

As we know that sleep is only a broad term which can be applied to our weaknesses in general 

Sleep, here, not refered only to the physical sleep, but our bodily passions, bad habits, and all our weaknesses. 

So what type of sleep is hindering in my life to experience the Glory of God??

Sleep of arrogance

Sleep of jealousy

Sleep of anger 

Sleep of revenge

Sleep of pride 

Sleep of selfishness

Sleep of division 

Sleep of greed

Sleep of lack of faith

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various Ways of Seeing the Son of Man

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 18th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 16:24-28*

*First Reading : Na 2:1, 3; 3:1-3, 6-7*

*Various Ways of Seeing the Son of Man*

*1) Seeing of the Son of Man*

The Gospel of the Day speaks about the seeing of the Son of Man 

It says *there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”*

So the question is How to see the Son of Man? What are the ways available to us today to see the Son of Man??

*2) Various Ways of Seeing the Son of Man*

*A) Son of Man can be seen in Service*

Service is something which is very close to Jesus. Jesus Himself served the people during His Public ministry 

So service is one of the ways to encounter Jesus in our Life

*B) Son of Man can be seen in Forgiveness*

Jesus is known for forgiveness. When one experiences the  forgiveness, it is the experience of Jesus Himself 

*C) The Son of Man can be seen in Healing*

The whole life of Jesus was spent for healing many people. When one experiences the Healing through prayers and miracles, one is encountering Jesus Himself 

*D) The Son of Man can be Seen in Praying*

Jesus says where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in their midst

So while being together, and in prayer one can experience the Son of Man 

*3) Every Good deed is nothing but seeing the Son of God*

Goodness is always identified with God. So whenever we do good or whenever we receive goodness from others it is an occasion to see Jesus in and through good works.  

*4) Eucharist is the Greatest way to see the Son of Man*

Eucharist is the highest prayer. 

It is in the Eucharist that we see Jesus in bread and wine 

Every celebration of Eucharist is the experiencing Jesus in a direct way. 

Let's thank God for this wonderful way to see and experience Jesus in our life 

*5) My Life and seeing of Jesus*

What are ways which I  using to see Jesus in my Life? 

Do I use the above mentioned ways to see Jesus in my life? 

Have I realised that the purpose of my life is to encounter 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*

Law which is placed in the Hearts of the Human Beings

Gospel Thoughts

*Feast of St John Mary Vianney*

*Ordinary Season : 18th Week - Thursday*

*Law which is placed in the Hearts of the Human Beings*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 16:13-23*

*FIRST READING - Jer 31:31-34*

*I will place my law within them, and write it upon their hearts*

*1) Law within the Heart*

This expression comes in today's First Reading 

It is God who places His Law in the Hearts of Human being 

This law is called *Divine Law* Which is placed in the hearts of every human being, irrespective of caste, creed and religion 

*2) Significance of Placing law in the Heart*

It has a special significance and it has special relevance. The following points will help us to understand the importance of it 

*A) Heart is a Special place and Organ of the Body*

Since heart is a special place in the body, the law which is placed in it should become special and unique in our life 

*B) Heart Works all the Time*

Since heart works all the time, law should work all the time in our life. There is no holiday for heart. Likewise there is no holiday for the law in our life 

*C) Without Heart we are dead*

One can't survive without heart. So also one can't survive without divine law. Being without divine law means we are already dead people 

*D) Something which is there in the heart is very dear to us*

Those people who are in our hearts are dear to us. We can't forget them. We need them always. Likewise the law which God has put in our hearts, should become  very dear to us, which can't be taken out 

*E) Heart is the place of God*

Heart is the seat of God. Its a place of God's voice, which is called conscience. Like wise divine law which is placed in the heart by God, is nothing but the presence of God. 

*F) Something put in the heart, can't be removed easily*

Like wise God who has placed this divine law can't be removed easily. It remains as the permanent mark, in our heart 

*3) Heart is a place of pondering*

When Mary didn't understand some of the things, she kept in her heart and pondered over it, which helped her to know the will of God

It is very necessary that we ponder all the aspects of Divine Law, so that we understand in a better way. 

*4) Whatever is placed in the heart, no one could remove easily*

In the New covenant, Whatever God has placed in the Heart, no one can remove 

Some of the Aspects of new covenant

*Forgiveness* Which is deeply rooted in our hearts

*Love* A aspect which is inseparable from the heart ❤️

*Voice of God* once again insepable from our hearts 

Generosity, humility, simplicity, and other things are inseparable from the heart. 

These things can never be separated from the heart

*5) What is there in my Heart*

A divine Law still alive? 

Instead of divine Law, have I kept gossip, jealousy, pride, arrogance, anger, revenge, selfishness etc. 

What is that in my heart which is ruling my life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*