Evil and Satan is like a Scorpion

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:17-24*

*First Reading : Jb 42:1-3, 5-6, 12-17*

*Evil and Satan is like a Scorpion*

*1) Scorpion and its meaning*

Symbolically and spiritually, the scorpion is an evil symbol and also a symbol of destruction

Scorpion symbolism mainly represents evil, death, destruction, and unpleasantness. In some cultures, the scorpion symbol is used to represent lust and sex.

*2) Scorpion is dangerous from all sides*

One can't touch scorpion from any side. 

From front also it is dangerous. From back also dangerous because it has a string, which is used to send poison

Since one can't touch the scorpion from any sides, the best solution is to be away from the scorpion

*3) Slow poisonous insect*

The poison which comes from the scorpion, spreads slowly. It's reaction is not sudden. 

It works in a slow motion. But once it takes the control, then it is difficult to control it 

*4) It is an ugly insect*

There is no attraction what so ever in scorpion

Its colour, shape and its appearance is rather brings fear than any other feeling

*5) Evil and Satan is like Scorpion*

Like scorpion, Satan is very dangerous

Like scorpion, Satan by its very nature is destructive

Like scorpion, Satan is dangerous from all sides. There is no goodness in it 

Like scorpion, Satan is very ugly and has a fearful appearance. No one gets attracted towards Satan

Like Scorpion, Satan works slowly and steadily. Once it takes control of the situation, then it is very difficult to control it 

Like Scorpion, we need to keep Satan away from our life 

*6) Scorpion in my life?*

Am I feeding the Scorpions in my life? 

Do I follow the Scorpion methodology in my Life?

What are the measures I take to control the scorpion influence 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*

Is my Life, like Chorazin and Bethsaida!

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:13-16*

*First Reading : Jb 38:1, 12-21; 40:3-5*

*Is my Life, like Chorazin and Bethsaida!*

*1) The Tragedy of Chorazin and Bethsaida*

Jesus is known for working miracles and performing great works. 

Wherever Jesus went He performed great works. By seeing the great works of Jesus many believed in Jesus, in the Kingdom God and changed their lives 

But Jesus performed great and more miracles in Chorazin and Bethsaida. As a result many more would have converted and believed in Jesus

But unfortunately those people were not able to recognise the great works of Jesus. As a result they didn't change their lives. 

That's why Jesus says *“Woe to you, Chorazin Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon,  they would long ago have repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes*

*2) Mighty Deeds in my Life*

Every day God works mighty deeds in our life 

We can analyse the mighty deeds of our life in the following way 

Every day when we get up, we are able to see. Is it not a miracle? 

Every day morning as I get up, I am able to walk, I am able to talk, I am able to smile, I am able to hear, I am able to think, I am able to discern what is good and what is bad. Are these not great miracles of my life? 

Every day when I get up, my heart still functions, my kidneys function, my international organs are intact, I am able to sleep, I am able to eat, I am able to taste variety of things, I am able to relate. So are these not great miracles of my life??

 

*3)  Am I able to recognise these as miracles?*

How many of us will see the aspect of miracle in these above things? 

Do they appear to me as miracles? Or do I take them as casual things? 

The moment I see the aspect of miracles in these things automatically my approach to life and others changes. 

*4) The result of failing to see miracles in our life*

There is no doubt that there are numerous miracles and mighty things happen in our life

All these mighty things are done by God himself for our benefit 

So our duty is to recognise these things and to remain grateful to God 

Failing to recognise these mighty deeds in our own life, will lead to chaos and confusion

Our life will be treated like the city of Chorazin!and Bethsaida!

We should never allow our life to become like Chorazin! and  Bethsaida!

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What is the Work of Angels?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Thursday*

*Feast of the Arch Angels*

*Gospel : Jn 1:47–51*

*First Reading : Dn 7:9-10, 13-14*

*What is the Work of Angels?*

*1) Protection*

Angels are created by God to protect the Human. 

It is believed that each person is having one Angel, whom we call Guardian Angel

So the Work of angels is to guard or to protect the Human Beings 

*2) To be in the presence of God and to praise Him*

They do stand in front of God to Praise him. And calling to each other Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts (Isaiah 6:1-3),

It does sound like that they are talking to each other. They continuously keep on praising God without resting.

*3) They are Fighters*

Angels are fighters. They fight against the devil and evil powers 

St Michael is known for the fight against the Devil.

Michale means *Who is like God* who drove Satan from Heaven

*4) Messengers God God*

Another aspect of the Angels is to communicate the message of God to his people 

Gabriel is known for communicating the message of the Lord. 

He Announced the birth of Jesus Christ

Gabriel means *The power of God* He is one among seven Angels who *Stand before God*

*5) Healing*

Angels are also involved in Healing Mission of the Lord

Arch Angel Raphael is known for Healing 

He was instrumental in curing the blindness of Tobit and acted as guide during his son's trip to Media.

*6) Comforting mission*

Angels are also known for comforting some one when they are in Trouble

When Jesus was suffering  in Gethsemane angels came and served him 

They comforted Him and strengthened Him

May Arch Angels protect, heal and make us happy always 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What Does it Mean to Put your Hand on the Plow and Look Back?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:57-62*

*First Reading : Jb 9:1-12, 14-16*

*What Does it Mean to Put your Hand on the Plow and Look Back?*

*1) Putting your hands on to the Plow*

It is a proverbial expression that signifies undertaking a new business. 

In this case, putting our hands on the plow means that one decides to commit ones life to God.

In other words it indicates a new beginning for something. Something greater in life 

*2) The agricultural image*

Jesus lived in an agricultural age where His audience is very well familiar with what Christ exactly means.

For a plowman to be successful in His work, he must concentrate on the job he started. 

He knows that the only way is forward and not being distracted by the things left behind.

*3) Danger of looking Back*

In case the plowman starts to look back, his plow line would become crooked. 

If that happens, the field he is plowing will not yield a full harvest, because the field may not be suitable for the crop 

There is also a danger for the oxen. When the plow man looks behind, he will lose the focus. The plow will go and hit the legs of the oxen. So there is a possibility of hurting the legs of the oxen 

*4) possibility of plowing by looking back*

This is the fact. It is almost impossible to look behind and to plow. 

Neither of the works the person will be able to do. So this becomes impossible

*5) From plowing to God's work*

If a person is not able to plow properly, such a person is unfit for the Kingdom of God. 

The distractions, and the lack of concentration will prove that one will not be able to concentrate either in plowing or in the mission of the Lord 

*6) Meaning of looking back*

It simply means that one is not ready to give up what one holds on

There are many things to give up, if one wants to follow Jesus. Looking back indicates that one is not ready to give up these things. In such situation one is not eligible for the Kingdom of God. 

*7) My life and Plowing*

With baptism we have put our hands to the plow of the Kingdom of God

How do I plow to yield the best fruit in my life?

What are those things which pull my attention to look back and to see the left over things? 

Am I holding the plow of Jesus and looking back to make it sure that left over things are safe? 

What is my methodology in plowing??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Dangers of the Culture of Fire

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:51-56*

*First Reading : Jb 3:1-3, 11-17, 20-23*

*The Dangers of the Culture of Fire*

*1) The call to fire From Heaven*

Fire is something which burns or destroys something. It will consume whatever it gets 

As Jesus as His disciples were passing through Sameria, in order to go to Jerusalem, the people of Sameria didn't welcome either Jesus or His disciples

To this attitude of the people of Sameria, the Disciples of Jesus became angry.

Their anger is seen in their attitude. Thats why they ask Jesus, *“Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?*

*2) It is an attitude of taking Revenge*

The whole scene can be viewed from the point of view of Revenge

Since they were not welcomed, the Disciples became angry and they wanted to take revenge on those people 

The method of taking revenge would be destroying them completely through the fire 

*3) The Culture of Fire*

The Culture of fire is very much seen in our life and around us 

The culture of fire is nothing but, wishing something bad to our enemies

It is nothing but asking God to destroy our enemies

This culture of fire is very much seen in every aspect of our life 

*4) Forgiveness and the Culture of Fire*

Jesus never promoted the culture of fire. That is why He rebuked his disciples who, were influenced by the culture of fire 

Jesus always practiced the culture of forgiveness and not the culture of fire 

Jesus also teaches us to adopt the culture of forgiveness and not the culture of fire 

*5) The culture of fire destroys everyone*

Fire does not make any partiality. It consumes every one 

So when fire comes down from heaven it will consume every one. 

So the revenge does not save or do anything good. The ultimate result is destruction. 

*6) My life and the culture of Fire, culture of Forgiveness*

Life swings between the culture of fire and the culture of forgiveness

It depends on how we manage our life 

As disciples of Jesus, we must give priority to the culture of forgiveness and need to fight against the culture of fire 

The purpose of our life can be achieved only through the culture of forgiveness and not through the culture of fire

If so where do I stand? Is my life dominated by the culture of forgiveness or the culture of fire??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus Does not belong to a particular company or Group

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:46-50*

*First Reading : Jb 1:6-22*

*Jesus Does not belong to a particular company or Group*

*1) Jesus does not belong to a particular group*

Jesus is a universal figure. He does not belong to the particular religion or sect or group. 

The mission of Jesus is universal, and Jesus belongs to all and all belong to Jesus 

So the person of Jesus is restricted to any religion or group

*2) The Understanding of the Disciples*

As we know that Jesus called 12 apostles who were with Jesus 

Jesus had begun His mission through the help of 12 disciples and He was training them in every aspects 

So the disciples thought that, Jesus is their leader and only they have right to use the name of Jesus 

So others were not the part of their group and they can't use the name of Jesus. So that was the understanding of the disciples

*3) Use of the name of Jesus by others*

The Gospel tells us that there were few people who used Jesus' name to cast out demons 

This particular event was witnessed by the disciples of Jesus. Since those people who used the name of Jesus to cast out demons were not belonging to their group, they prevented them doing so. 

When such a thing was reported to Jesus, He clearly says, not to prevent the good work, and any one can use Jesus name to do something good and better 

*4) The clear message of Jesus*

By telling not to prevent those who were casting out demons, Jesus clearly gives the message that, good work must not be prevented at any cost 

Secondly, any one can use Jesus' name to do good. There is no restriction

Thirdly, Jesus doesn't belong to any particular group or sect. He belongs to every one and everyone belongs to Jesus 

*5) Company or group mentality leads to division*

The moment one speaks about my group or my company, it leads to division and division leads to destruction

So Jesus tells us to uproot such kind of mentality and to work towards unity rather than division 

*6) My life and group mentality*

How do I see my life? Is it influenced by the group mentality?

Do I believe that certain things are reserved only to few people? 

Do I prevent others from doing good because they do not belong to my camp??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Suffering here on Earth or after death? Choice is Yours

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 16:19-31*

*First Reading : Am 6:1a, 4-7*

*SECOND READING - 1 Tm 6:11-16*

*Suffering here on Earth or after death? Choice is Yours*

*1) The role of Suffering*

It is very clear that one can't avoid sufferings in life 

The relationship between Suffering and life is like the shade and figure or they are two sides of the same coin. 

No one can separate completely sufferings from ones life 

*2) Suffering of Lazarus*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the sufferings of Lazarus

When He lived his life here on earth he suffered a lot. He didn't have sufficient things to eat, no clothes to wear and no house to stay. He was practically like a beggar 

*3) The Life of Rich Man*

He enjoyed his life to the maximum. He had big house to stay, he enjoyed delicious food every day, he had all pleasures of life and finally he enjoyed everything in life 

The Gospel says he celebrated everyday with festal mood and wearing colourful dress 

*4) Situation after death*

Both rich man and poor Lazarus died. After death their fate changes

The rich man, who hardly suffered in his earthly life had terrible suffering after his death 

The poor Lazarus who suffered everything in earthly life, had best enjoyment in heaven 

One who suffered in life went to heaven after death and one who enjoyed life on earth went to hell 

*5) Duration of the Suffering*

The duration of Lazarus suffering was very short. As long as he lived here on this earth he suffered 

The duration of rich mans suffering was terrible and for eternity, which is unending 

So one need to pay attention to the duration of suffering

*6) Sufferings in my Life*

First of all sufferings are Part of life. One can't avoid it 

Secondly the Gospel shows us two types of personalities and two out comes of the suffering

So it is upto us to decide where to suffer? Here on the earth during our life time or after our death for eternity 

*Choice is yours*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Pay attention to what I am telling you.

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:43b-45*

*First Reading : Eccl 11:9—12:8*

*“Pay attention to what I am telling you.*

*1) Importance of Paying attention*

The Gospel of the day speaks about paying attention

Paying attention specially to the message of Jesus, and what Jesus is telling about His life and Mission

*2) What Jesus is telling About?*

From the context we can conclude the Following things 

Jesus is speaking about His mission, through the Suffering and death on the Cross.

So from this event we need to pay attention to the following things 

Suffering is part of our life. One can't avoid the sufferings in life 

It is said that *One can cross the River without getting wet, one one can't  cross the boat of life, without our eyes getting wet 

Cross is the part and parcel of our life. 

Life and Cross are the two sides of the same coin 

So these are the few important things Jesus is telling about His mission and His life 

 

*3) Disciples did not pay attention to what Jesus said*

It is clear from the Gospel that, the disciples didn't understand what Jesus said

The primary reason, why they didn't understand may be because, they didn't pay attention to what Jesus said

So by not paying attention, one will not understand the important things. 

If one does not understand the important things, one may not be able to follow anything in life 

So one need to pay attention to what Jesus says 

*4) Jesus speaks everyday to us*

 *“Pay attention to what I am telling you.* This particular sentence is very important for us, because every day Jesus speaks to us 

Every day Jesus is telling us pay attention to what I am telling you 

So whenever we read the scriptures, meditate Jesus is speaking to us

*5) Am I paying attention to what Jesus says?*

Its very important to reflect about, this particular question. 

Am I paying enough attention to what Jesus is telling me 

Everyday morning Jesus is telling me something. Do I remember the message of Jesus to me? 

Do I pay attention to the message of Jesus? 

What is the out come of Jesus' message in my life? 

Those who pay attention, definitely there will be change in life

What about 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*

Self Evaluation is the Best evaluation

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:18-22*

*First Reading : Eccl 3:1-11*

*Self Evaluation is the Best evaluation*

*1) The Idea of Self Evaluation*

The Gospel of the day, powerfully presents to us the idea of self evaluation in today's reading 

It Jesus who takes the self evaluation about his identity and also about His mission 

After having spent sufficient time in public ministry Jesus is taking this self evaluation to know the minds of the  people as well as His disciples

*2) Various Aspects of the Self Evaluation*

Jesus precisely gives two questions to His disciples *Who do the crowds say that I am?”*

To this question we have diffent opinions 

Some saw  John the Baptist in Jesus 

Others saw Elijah in Jesus 

Few others saw one of the ancient prophets in Jesus 

There was also second question by Jesus *But who do you say that I am?”*

To this question Peter said *“The Christ of God.”*

So this is the overall picture of Jesus which was known by the people and the Disciples

*3) Jesus' Further revelation about Himself*

From the response of Jesus, it is very clear that neither the people nor the disciples, fully understood Jesus well 

That's why Jesus reveals some more important things about His mission and about His life 

He says *“The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”*

This particular sentence gives us the entire idea of Jesus' mission 

*4) Self evaluation reveals Two things*

First of all it helps the person to know what others think about a person. Whether their opinions are right or not. 

Secondly it also helps the person to use different tactics to communicate the hidden or unknown things about the self 

These two things can be seen in the life of Jesus 

When it comes our life, still more things are applicable to us 

Self evaluation will help us to know our own weaknesses, which others will show us, in the process of self evaluation

Ultimately the self evaluation is aimed at knowing the reality about the self, from others and through self examination

*5) Am I ready for self evaluation?*

Most of the time we are busy in giving evaluation to others about their life

When it comes to our own life, many do not want to have a self evaluation from others 

Either they are frightened or they think it is a weakness to evaluate the self 

Some may think that self evaluation is the sign of losing the battle

But in reality, self examination will improve the quality, authenticity and trustworthiness

If so am I ready for self evaluation? 

What are the areas which need self evaluation 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 Herod was greatly Perplexed?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:7–9*

*First Reading : Eccl 1:2–11*

*Why Herod was greatly Perplexed?*

*1) Herod was greatly perplexed*

When some one is perplexed He/she confused, frightened, becomes anxious, becomes restless, worried, puzzled, and enters into such a state where, the person is not able to solve the problem

The Gospel of the day tells us that, King Herod was greatly perplexed. If so one need to ask why he was perplexed? What are the reasons? How does it apply to our life?

*2) Various possible reasons*

*A) Herod had murdered John the Baptist*

Since he had murdered John on immoral grounds, he was worried about his evil deed. 

The innocent blood of John was the primary cause of his worry. That is why he was perplexed

*B) Herod was hearing some unusual things*

After the death of John, it happened that Herod heard many unusual things, especially the miracles which could be done only a divine person 

Herod also believed that John was a divine man. So he was perplexed by hearing the many miracles and extraordinary things 

*C) John had been raised to life* 

By seeing and hearing many miracles and extraordinary things, which were performed by Jesus, people identified with these things with John and they concluded that John had been raised to life 

This popular opinion of people was faced by Herod, that's why he was perplexed 

If John comes to life, once again it will be a great challenge for Herod to face him. Moreover he will make known the immoral things of Herod, which may finally result in losing his power and position. So Herod was perplexed

*D) People had different opinions*

Some people said, John had been raised

Some said one of the Prophets of the old 

Some said Elijah 

Herod said, I had beheaded John. 

So he was fully confused and he was perplexed about this issue

*E) He wanted to see the Miracle Man*

Since he was unaware about Jesus and his miracles Herod wanted to meet the miracle worker

But some how it was not possible. So he was perplexed  

*3) End Results of being perplexed*

One is not able to concentrate

One gets disturbed very much about the situation

One is frightened about ones own future and the position

*4) Being in the state of perplex is the Sign of many things*

When some one is in the state of perplex, it is very clear that something is wrong in ones life 

It is a signal or warning for the person, about ones own behavior, evil deeds, immoral ways, coward nature, condition etc

It is a sign which tells a person for self examination

*5) Am I perplexed in my life?*

This is a state of life, in which anybody can enter depending on the situation

We need not like Herods to experience such a situation. 

Any immoral behaviour or any evil deed leads to this state 

So it is very important to reflect whether I am perplexed in my about anything??

*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' eating with Sinners and Tax Collectors

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*St Mathew, Apostle and Evangelist : Feast*

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:9–13*

*First Reading : Eph 4:1–7, 11–13*

*The significance of Jesus' eating with Sinners and Tax Collectors*

*1) The Identity of Tax Collectors and Sinners*

The Tax collectors were seen as traitors to their  own nations because they were collecting taxes from their own people and giving to Romans 

They were considered unclean people because of their occupation, that is collecting money

The tax collectors were known for cheating their own people by collecting more than required, padding their own pockets in the process. That is why they were hated by Jews

The tax collectors were the most despised individuals in Israel – men deemed lower than the Herodians and even Roman soldiers, and ones regarded on the same level as harlots and prostitutes.

Sinners were also dispised and were considered unclean people 

Finally they were not eligible for the Salvation according to Jewish understanding

*2) Significance of Eating together*

Eating is not mere sharing of the Food with another. It means much more. It has deeper meanings 

*Generosity of the Person who serves the meal 

*Humility on the part of the one who receives it 

*Its an occasion to know each other and to build new friendships 

*It is an gesture of accepting the other as he/she is 

*It is an act of identifying oneself with another 

*It is an act of trying to understand the other person 

*It is a stepping stone to begin a new relationship

*3) Jesus' Eating with Tax Collectors and Sinners*

It Shows the openness and acceptance on the Part of God to accept the sinners and tax collectors

It shows that God is one with the Sinners and tax collectors 

Jesus became very close to the sinners and tax collectors

It became an opportunity to meet them, to talk to them and to convey the message of the Kingdom of God

Finally, eating with the sinners and tax collectors were the occasion to change the people from their evil ways. 

It was aimed at conversion of the Heart and Mind 

*4) Jesus Eats with us everyday*

We have a privilege of eating with Jesus everyday

Eucharist is the Lords meal in which we participate and eat everyday

So Jesus becomes very close to us and Jesus should become very close to us 

The purpose of this  meal is to have a deeper conversion of Heart and Mind to become genuine disciples of Jesus 

*5) My participation in the Meal*

It is very important to reflect about our participation in the meal. 

How does it effect to my life? 

Is there any effect after having participated in this Eucharistic meal? 

What is the significance of this meal 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 tragedy of the Ear, which is unable to hear the Cry of the Poor

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 8:19-21*

*First Reading : Prv 21:1-6, 10-13*

*The tragedy of the Ear, which is unable to hear the Cry of the Poor*

*1) Ear as a Wonder of God*

One of the greatest wonders of the Human body and also of the creation of God, is the Human ear

Ear could be considered as the miracle of God, because, it changes various waves and finally makes it possible to hear the Sound 

We understand the importance of the ear only when one is unable to hear the sound or voice 

So basic function of the ear is to hear the sound and to understand the situation which around us and to respond to it positively

*2) Ear can be active or Ear can be deaf*

As we know that, ear is supposed to hear everything, a person can use his ear to hear what he likes and act as if one is deaf to certain things 

There is a advantage as well as disadvantage to this 

It is good to give a active ear to the good things which we come across in our life 

One who listens good things attentively, he/she is able to understand it, which finally helps a person to grow 

So listening to the good things is very important thing

At the same time, we must act as if we are deaf, especially when one criticizes us, in order to discourage us when we do good, or some one gossips about our life and character, or when some one spreads lies about our life 

Such kind of deafness is very important to achieve great heights in life 

*3) Selective deafness towards the Cry of the Poor*

The Cry of the poor is one of the common things which was existed in the world from its beginning and it is existing today and it will exist in the future 

So there is no place or no time in history, where the cry of the poor was not existing

As long as human beings exist the cry of the poor will exist 

So in an around there are many instances of the Cry of the poor, which one ought to listen

*4) Two kinds of reactions*

To the Cry of the poor two kinds of reactions 

First reactions: Those people who listen the Cry of the Poor and they do whatever they can do to stop their cry 

Second reaction : Those people who purposefully, not able to hear the cry of the poor, or purposefully ignore the cry of the poor, or they don't want to listen to the cry, because it challenges them 

*5) Result for those who ignore the Cry of the Poor*

Since they are not able to listen to the cry of the poor, other will not be able to listen to His cry, when it needed 

Especially the First Reading says, God will not hear their cry, who ignore the Cry of the Poor 

Ignoring the Cry of the poor, or humiliating and insulting the Cry of the poor is a curse and not a blessing 

God hears the Cry of the poor, and God punishes those who purposefully ignore the cry of the Poor

*6) How is my ear?* 

Our existence has meaning only when we hear the cry of the poor and help them 

Do my ears hear the Cry of the Poor? 

Does my ear follow the logic of Selective hearing?

Ignoring the cry of the poor is a greatest sin of 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 need of a Stand for the Lamp - Lamp stand

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 8:16-18*

*First Reading : Prv 3:27-34*

*The need of a Stand for the Lamp - Lamp stand*

*1) Lamp and the Lamp Stand*

The Gospel of the day speaks about Lamp and the Lamp stand 

Both the things, lamp and the lamp stand are necessary. 

A lamp without a stand can't shine well and a stand without the lamp has no meaning 

*2) Lamp on the Lamp Stand*

It gives a special look to the lamp and it adds beauty to the stand 

Lamp on the lamp stand can be seen by all and it captures the attention of many 

Lamp on the Lamp Stand can shine well and it gives better light or the light is reflected in a better way 

Lamp on the Lamp stand becomes a attraction to Evey one 

*3) Jesus the Light and Lamp and we are the Lamp stands*

Jesus says that *I am the light of the World* John 8:12. So Jesus is the Shining lamp. 

This Shining lamp needs a powerful stand. 

Can we see that our life as a Lamp stand for Jesus who is the shining Lamp with bright light?  

Its very important to turn our life as Lamp Stands for Jesus who is light of the World 

*4) Various Lamp Stands in our day today life*

Lamp needs Lamp stand

loving heart is a stand for Love 

Sacrifice is a stand Generosity

 Repentance is a stand for forgiveness

Pity is the stand for sharing 

Humility is the stand for learning 

Simplicity is the stand for genuine life 

So each value of Jesus needs a stand,  through which it can be shown to the entire world

So will my life be reflected as a powerful stand for Kingdom Values? 

*5) What type of stand my life is?*

Today when I reflect about my life, what type of stand it symbolises? 

Is it a stand for forgiveness?

Is it a stand for guidance? 

Is it a stand for truth? 

Is it a stand for justice? 

Is it a stand for unconditional love? 

Is it it stand for simplicity, humility, sacrifice, sharing, creativity, and for various kingdom values?

Or 

Is my life a stand for duplicity, corruption, greed, hypocrisy, revenge, anger, jealousy, gossip etc??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Use your Wisdom, knowledge, skills and Talents to do good and not Bad

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 16:1-13 or 16:10-13*

*First Reading : Am 8:4-7*

*SECOND READING -1 Tm 2:1-8*

*Use your Wisdom, knowledge, skills and Talents to do good and not Bad*

*1) The steward was called Dishonest*

The parable names the steward as Dishonest Steward. Why he was called dishonest? 

These are the following reasons

He squandered the property of the Mater

He did not submit the account to the master on time 

Master heard bad things about the steward

Finally he manipulated the accounts and swindled the money of the master 

All these he could do only because he was shrewd, and  intelligent. 

*2) What are the necessary things to manipulate the Accounts*

A dull person may not be able to manipulate the accounts 

Only a shrewd, intelligent and knowledgeable person can do such things 

The steward who comes in the parable belonged to this category. 

He was intelligent, shrewd and knowledgeable. He used these skills to manipulate the accounts of the Master 

*3) The End results*

All those who use their intelligence and skills to accumulate the riches through the illegal means, don't succede in life 

Use of wrong means to accumulate the things finally do not make us rich but make us sick and sad 

Where as when these talents and skills are used to do something good, life becomes meaningful and beautiful

*4) Gods call to acquire greater things in life*

God invites us to acquire the greater things in life by using the intelligence, skills and knowledge

The greater things could be following 

Love

Peace 

Humility

Happiness

Contentment

Prosperity

Forgiveness

Truthfulness

Simplicity

Hardwork 

Generosity

Sharing 

Helping 

One should use the knowledge and wisdom to acquire these greater and higher things 

*5) How do I use my knowledge and intelligence?*

Serious question to think about our life 

All of us are given some knowledge, prudence and  skills by God

It is up to us to reflect, about  how are we going to utilize the our skills talents and knowledge

Using our knowledge for good things and to acquire heavenly things will change our life 

Finally we have to give the account of our life

What is the account 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*

Is the Good Soil, mixed with Rocks?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 8:4-15*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 15:35-37, 42-49*

*Is the Good Soil, mixed with Rocks?*

*1) 4 Divisions in the Parable of the Sower*

The parable of the sower gives us the 4 divisions

The seeds fell on the path 

The seed fell on the rocky ground 

The seed fell on the Thorny bushes

The seed fell on good soil 

So there are four places or four divisions in the parables

*2) Watertight compartments*

These four divisions appears to be water tight compartments 

When there is a water tight compartment division, they are closely sealed and no mixture of what so ever 

There is no survival for the seeds which falls on first three places. The seed is able to produce the fruit only on good soil 

*3) Life can't be seen as water tight compartments*

There is no life which is 100% equal to the first division, that is seed fell on the path

Like wise there is no life which is 100% equal to rocky ground or thorny bushes which makes it impossible to produce fruit 

There is no life which is once again 100% equal to good soil, which is able to produce good fruit 

So life can't be divided based on these division

*4) Life is mixture of all the Divisions*

Life could be considered as consisting of rather  good soil, which has various small and big rocks, and some areas like thorny bushes and pathways 

This is the reality of life. So we are neither 100% bad nor 100% right. 

Life varies between the path way to good soil. So it is the mixture of all things 

*5) Our mission*

It is to find out which are the areas still remain as pathways?

Which are the areas those still remain as rocky grounds?

Which are the areas those remain still as thorny bushes?

Or what are those rocks and thorny bushes which are mixed with the good soil of our life? 

There is no doubt that our life is equal to good soil. But this soil has some rocks, thorny bushes and pathways, which need to be removed to make it more fruitful

*6) Its a great challenge*

Challenge to find out the things which are mixed with good soil 

As long as these things are mixed with the soil, no good fruit will be able to produce

So we need to work hard to make our life as good soil, by removing all unwanted things 

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*

Team Work for the Kingdom of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 8:1-3*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 15:12-20*

*Team Work for the Kingdom of God*

*1) Jesus on Building the Kingdom of God*

The Gospel of the day, presents to us the mission of Jesus 

Jesus is found on moving from one place to the another 

The Gospel says *Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God.*

So this highlights the importance of His mission 

*2) Jesus' Mission Supported by a Team*

Along with Jesus there were many people who supported His mission 

First of all there are 12 disciples, who are always found with Jesus, supporting from every way 

These disciples were also involved in learning the techniques and skills to build the kingdom of God 

There were couple of women who also supported the mission of Jesus. They are  *Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others*

*3) Good blend and Well balanced team*

The Team of Jesus had both men and women 

The 12 male Disciples and the few women tell us that both men and women have the role to play in building the kingdom of God 

So all are involved in building the kingdom of God. 

*4) Religious and Lay People in Jesus' Team*

The 12 Disciples could be considered as the religious people or the consecrated people who helped Jesus in building the Kingdom of God 

The few women could represent the role of lay persons in building the Kingdom of God 

So both men and women, religious and lay people are involved in building the Kingdom of God 

*5) Monetary Help for the building of the Kingdom of God*

Along with the Human resources, there are also other resources which are needed to build the Kingdom of God 

The Gospel beautifully presents this point, highlighting the need of other resources 

The Gospel says that *Who provided for them out of their resources*

These are none other than the women who followed Jesus and also the other people in the group. 

So this also highlights the importance of the need of the monetary resources 

*6) My involvement in Jesus' Team*

As we reflect about the team work with Jesus to build the kingdom of God, where do I stand?

What type involvement I have? 

Active proclamation of the kingdom of God, through my ministry?

Is it the proclamation through my exemplary way of life? 

Spending my little time in helping others in their needs? 

Being generous through my resources to carry out the various projects

Or is my involvement limited only to the ritual things? 

Am I an outsider to the team and 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*

Sorrowful moments in the company of others

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week : Thursday*

*Gospel :Jn 19:25-27 or Lk 2:33-35*

*First Reading : Heb 5:7-9*

*Sorrowful moments in the company of others*

*1) Most Sorrowful moment in the Life of Mother Mary*

Today's feast, Our Lady of Sorrows, calls us to reflect about the various sorrows of our blessed Mother

Traditionally there are 7 Sorrows of our Blessed Mother. They are 

1. The Prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:34-35)

2. The Flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-21)

3. The Loss of Jesus for Three Days (Luke 2:41-50)

4. The Carrying of the Cross (John 19:17)

5. The Crucifixion of Jesus (John 19:18-30)

6.Jesus Taken Down from the Cross (John 19:39-40)

7. Jesus Laid in the Tomb (John 19:39-42)

Among all these sorrows,  the Sorrow at the foot of the Cross, when Jesus was about to die, and also the moment of death, could be considered as the most crucial sorrowful moments in the life of our Blessed Mother 

*2) The presence of the People*

At the most Crucial sorrowful moments, that is the foot of the Cross and the dying scene of Jesus in the Cross, there were few people who were wity Mary 

His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. Along with this women the Beloved disciple John was with them 

*3) The importance of the presence of the Beloved people*

The presence of these Women and John in the life of Mary, at that crucial moment, means a lot to Mary 

First of all she was strengthened in her approach to the deep sorrows with their presence 

Secondly, these women and the beloved disciple of Jesus shared the sorrows of Mary by being together with Mary 

Thirdly, John could take Mary as His mother, after Jesus entrusted His mother to the care of John. This must have given a special courage to Mary 

Finally the company of these people was very much needed and necessary for Mary to face this crucial sorrowful moment

*4) Sorrows shared becomes light*

At the foot of the Cross, all of them share the sorrows of each other

They encouraged  each  other which helped them to face the situation in a better way 

There is always a better strength, courage, hope, possibility, way to face the crucial moments of our life, when there are genuine  people are around us to help 

This is what happened at the foot of the Cross

*5) These people are remembered for ever*

These women and the beloved disciple are remembered forever. 

Their names are specially mentioned in the Gospel and they will remain for ever

Those who help us at the crucial sorrowful moments in our life, can't be forgotten and one should never forget such people, who help us in our life 

 *6) When there is company, we can face anything in life*

This particular fact is very clear from the scene at the foot of the cross

Mary faced all the challenges in the presence of few people, who were along with Her 

*7) How do I approach sorrowful moments in my life?*

Do I face alone or my beloved people are with me? 

Do I face them or run away from it?/

What are the most crucial sorrowful moments in my life? 

Who are those who come to my aid when I am faced with crisis in my life?? 

May our Blessed Mother intercede for us to face the Challenges of our life in the company of our beloved people 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Cross is necessary to Lift us all

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Feast : Exaltation of the Cross*

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 3:13–17*

*First Reading : Nm 21:4b–9*

*SECOND READING Phil 2:6–11*

*Cross is necessary to Lift us all*

*1) Cross and Jesus*

There is a close connection between Jesus and the Cross.

There is no meaning for the Cross without Jesus and Jesus' mission is incomplete without the Cross

So Where there is Jesus, there is Cross and Where there is Cross, there is Jesus 

*2) Jesus is Lifted on the Cross*

The Gospel says that, *as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”*

Lifting up on the Cross was the integral part of Jesus' mission 

The mission becomes incomplete without being lifted up on the Cross

So lifting on the Cross was necessary

*3) What happens when Jesus is lifted up?*

Lifting up was the climax of Jesus' mission 

By Lifting up on the Cross Jesus accomplishes His mission 

By Lifting up Jesus on the Cross, all the people will see him. All those who see Jesus will be saved forever

*4) Lifted Jesus is seen Every where*

There is no place where there is no Cross in the World 

In Every country, at least in one place or the another Cross is present 

The Crucifix is present and it has become very powerful because, Jesus was lifted up on the Cross

So Jesus is seen everywhere

*5) Lifting up on the Cross is necessary*

Since Jesus achieves His mission by being lifted up on the Cross, for the followers there is no other was to accomplish their mission 

The Cross and by being lifted up on Cross, can only the way to accomplish our mission 

There is no shortcut for a Christian to achieve his/her mission other than Cross and by being lifted up on the Cross

*6) How we are lifted up on the Cross?*

In our every day life, there are many instances where we experience, being lifted up on the Cross

When we are misunderstood by the others 

When suffer for others mistakes 

When we fail miserably in our life

When we are punished for others mistakes

When we are left alone 

When there are so many challenges in our lives 

When we have to suffer to keep up our faith alive 

When we are targeted because we belong to Christ 

When we suffer for the sake of Christ

When we serve, love, sacrifice, and live for the sake of Jesus 

When we are humiliated for the sake of Christ 

Am I ready to be lifted up on the Crosses of daily life to accomplish my Mission of life??

*Happy Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Has my Life become like a Coffin?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 7:11-17*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 12:12-14; 27-31a*

*Has my Life become like a Coffin?*

*1) The Concept of Coffin*

We are very familiar with the coffin. 

Coffin is a box, which is to keep the dead body and finally to burry the dead body 

Some are frightened to see the coffin, and some don't want to think about the coffin

Coffin is also the symbol of end. 

*2) Life as a coffin*

When we see the concept of coffin in our own life, it simply means that life has many dead things 

When dead things are kept in out life, life becomes a coffin, which keeps the dead things first the disposal.  

*3) At times the following things die in our life*

The death of forgiveness

The death of humility

The death of truth 

The death of simplicity

The death of smile 

The death of relationship

The death of our eyes, which unable to see good things 

The death of our ears, which can't hear good things 

The death of our tongue, which becomes unable to speak good things 

The death of mind, which can't distinguish what is good and what is evil 

The death of conscience

The death of generosity

The death of service 

The death of goodness 

When the above things die in our life, our life becomes a coffin, which carries all these dead things 

*4) Jesus' Touch to the coffin*

When Jesus touched the coffin, eveything changes

The dead man comes to life

The reference to *Young man* also shows the youthfulness and the energy involved in it 

Today Jesus touches the coffin of our life to make all things new and strong 

*5) Christian life is not equal to a coffin*

God has not called us to follow the coffin spirituality

God has crested us in his own image and likeness, to remain young in our spirit at all time 

We should always try to remain young in practicing the Kingdom values

Are you following the coffin spirituality???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

To the Centurion the Salve was valuable, Which changes His Approach

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 7:1-10*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 11:17-26, 33*

*To the Centurion the Salve was valuable, Which changes His Approach*

*1) The Slave was about to Die*

The centurion had a slave, who was sick and was about to die 

The centurion had a very good relationship with the slave, which speaks very high about the centurion. 

This relationship tells us that the centurion was a good man, who vlaued human beings and relationship, irrespective of their status 

*2) Why Centurion takes kneen interest in the Slave*

The relationship master-slave makes us to think one is greater and the other one is nothing 

But here the relationship is quite different. He gives value to the person and not to his status

Since he was valuable to the centurion, he takes keen interest in the wellbeing of the slave 

*3) When Something is valuable to us, our approach Changes*

Since the Slave was valuable to the centurion His approach was totally different which helped the slave to save his life

When something is valuable to us, our approach automatically changes and we try our level best to do all the possible things in our life 

*4) Who are valuable to me?*

My parents 

My siblings 

My neighbors

My relationship

My relatives 

My Children

My surroundings 

My family

That which is valuable to me I will never ever allow to die. 

*5) Within myself What is valuable to me?*

My conscience

My behavior

My prayer life 

My hope in God

My Trust in God

Humility

Love

Sincerity

Simplicity

My approach 

My social life 

Things are not more valuable than Human brings 

Greed for power and authority, devalues human relationship and it leads to dehumanization

How much I value others??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Where do I stand in the parable of the Prodigal Son

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 24th Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 15:1-32 or 15:1-10*

*First Reading : Ex 32:7-11, 13-14*

*SECOND READING - 1 Tm 1:12-17*

*Where do I stand in the parable of the Prodigal Son*

*1) There are three important characters in the Parable*

The parable of the Prodigal Son has three important characters 

The Father 

The Prodigal Son

The elder brother of the prodigal Son 

So in this parable where do I stand or which personality reflected in my life? 

*2) The Father or Prodigal Father*

The following are the qualities of the Prodigal Father

He is merciful 

He is caring 

He understand perfectly well

He is ready to sacrifice for the good of the children

He is loving 

He is patient

He is ready to accept his son 

He goes out of the way to help his children

He is hopeful 

He doesn't grumble

He doesn't blame anyone 

He waits everyday for his son 

He forgets the past and past mistakes

He is all good 

The above qualities tell us that the Father is a Holy Man and He is like God 

*3) The Prodigal Son*

His life can be divided into three phases 

*First Phase*

He is arrogant

He is greedy 

He is worldly 

He is irresponsible

He is a slave of material things 

He seeks bodily pleasures

He is aimless 

He causes division

He creates confusion

He is the cause of sadness 

He is proud 

He gives more value to money and property

He becomes slave of everything

*Second Phase*

He loses everything

He becomes a beggar 

He becomes a loner 

He starvs 

He becomes like an animal 

He is ready to eat the food of the pigs 

He loses his human dignity 

He desperately searches for some food 

He becomes nothing

He becomes zero 

*Third Phase*

He realises his great mistakes 

He comes to his senses 

He realises what he was earlier and what he is now

He changes his mind 

He prepares himself to go back 

He goes back

He asks for forgiveness

He feels he is unworthy to become a son 

*Fourth Phase*

Dignity is restored 

Given a grand welcome 

He becomes true son 

He came to know the love of the Father 

He knows the importance of Fathers house and its glory 

He wishes to remain with Father 

Never to depart from Father

*4) The Elder Son*

Finds fault with younger brother 

Thinks he is good and obedient but his brother is one who destroyed everything

He thinks younger brother has no place in father's house 

Thinks, Father did a great mistake by accepting the prodigal son

Even though he was with father, never experienced fathers love 

He lived a double bstsndard life

Does not understand the importance of repentance and forgiveness

In other words he lives a hypothetical life

*5) My Position*

Where do I stand?

Who is reflected in my life?

Who is dominating in my life? 

Whom do I want to follow? 

Merciful Father?

Prodigal Son?

Elder Brother?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Foundation on the Rock

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:43-49*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 10:14-22*

*Foundation on the Rock*

*1) House built on Rock*

Today's Gospel speaks about the two house builders 

One builds in the Rock with foundation, the other builds of the ground without foundation

House built on rock with foundation becomes strong. House built on the ground without foundation, collapses. 

So we are called upon to build on rock with foundation

*2) Jesus calls Peter as Rock*

Since rocj mentioned here does not refer only to the physical rock. But it has a deeper meaning 

When Jesus calls Peter as rock and upon this rock I will build my Church, *Rock* has a special significance

So what does this mean to build on rock

*3) Various meanings of Rock*

Rock indicates, strength, oneness, hard to break, can't be destroyed easily, power and authority

So when Jesus calls Peter as rock, Jesus is inviting Peter to practice these values in his life  

*4) Various spiritual meaning for Rock*

Rock is something on which we have to put foundation to build something

So the following things have the characteristics of Rock 

The rock of prayer

The rock of the Word of God

The rock of forgiveness

The rock of relationship

The rock of truthfulness

The rock of humility 

The rock of sincere love 

The rock of service 

The rock of sacrifice

The rock of Sharing 

The rock of simplicity

The rock of hardwork

The rock of conscience

*5) Where is the Foundation of my life?*

Have I build my life on rock with foundation or on the ground without foundation?

How far I practice the above mentioned values in my life??

Have I built my life on the  ground, on low quality rock or on the good quality rock??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I running aimlessly?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:39-42*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22b-27*

*Am I running aimlessly?*

*1) Do not run aimlessly*

This particular phrase is found in today's first reading. 

We need to think about this phrase very seriously, because, this particular phrase speaks about the aim of our life

*2) God has created us with a aim for our life*

All of us are created in the image and likeness of God. 

When God created us in His likeness and image, He has also fixed a aim for our life 

There is no human life without purpose aim. So it is very important to know the aim of our life. 

*3) What is the Aim of our life according to God??*

First of all God has created us to love him, to love one another, to live a good life and finally to attain eternal life after our death

To live a value based life 

To help the needy 

To serve others 

To heal others 

To forgive others 

To see God in fellow being 

To become a genuine person

To live a holy life 

To have God experience

To follow Jesus

To follow the Cross 

*4) Confused aim of our life*

At times the aim of our life is confused

Many think the aim of their  life is to accumulate wealth, money, name, power, position etc 

Some think the aim of their life is to become great in this life, without giving any importance to right means to attian the aim of life 

*5) Aimless life and Blindness*

The Gospel of the day speaks about two blind people. One blind man leading another. Both fall into a pit 

Aimless life is equal to a blind man, who is not able to lead another person 

Aimless life is useless and one can't achieve anything in life 

*6) What is the aim of my Life?*

Is my aim depends on Heavenly things or Worldly things? 

Am I running behind aimless things? 

Doing good things should be our aim 

Living Good and holy life should be the Aim of our life 

So what is the Aim 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*

Am I running aimlessly?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:39-42*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22b-27*

*Am I running aimlessly?*

*1) Do not run aimlessly*

This particular phrase is found in today's first reading. 

We need to think about this phrase very seriously, because, this particular phrase speaks about the aim of our life

*2) God has created us with a aim for our life*

All of us are created in the image and likeness of God. 

When God created us in His likeness and image, He has also fixed a aim for our life 

There is no human life without purpose aim. So it is very important to know the aim of our life. 

*3) What is the Aim of our life according to God??*

First of all God has created us to love him, to love one another, to live a good life and finally to attain eternal life after our death

To live a value based life 

To help the needy 

To serve others 

To heal others 

To forgive others 

To see God in fellow being 

To become a genuine person

To live a holy life 

To have God experience

To follow Jesus

To follow the Cross 

*4) Confused aim of our life*

At times the aim of our life is confused

Many think the aim of their  life is to accumulate wealth, money, name, power, position etc 

Some think the aim of their life is to become great in this life, without giving any importance to right means to attian the aim of life 

*5) Aimless life and Blindness*

The Gospel of the day speaks about two blind people. One blind man leading another. Both fall into a pit 

Aimless life is equal to a blind man, who is not able to lead another person 

Aimless life is useless and one can't achieve anything in life 

*6) What is the aim of my Life?*

Is my aim depends on Heavenly things or Worldly things? 

Am I running behind aimless things? 

Doing good things should be our aim 

Living Good and holy life should be the Aim of our life 

So what is the Aim 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*

Where will Infant Mary take birth??

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Thursday*

Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary*

*Gospel : Mt 1:1-16, 18-23 or Mt 1:18-23*

*First Reading : Mic 5:1-4a*

 

*Or / Rom 8:28-30*

*Where will Infant Mary take birth??*

*1) Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary*

Today we are celebrating the great feast of our Blessed Virgin Mary in the context of Her Bith 

Birth of our Heavenly Mother is a great event in our lives 

*2)  The necessary things which needed for the Birth of our blessed Mother*

First of all there should be a clean heart and mind. Only Joachim and Anne had such a purity, that's why is Mary was born to Joachim and Anne

Secondly the virtue of Humility. Mary prefers the heart and mind which are not proud, but Humble

Thirdly the Virtue of Service: Service is the another name for Mary. So wherever there is  service, Mary is present 

Fourthly the Virtue of Courage: Mary needs a place or the  person where there is courage. Such persons will invite Mary to take her birth in her heart.   

*3) Silent Birth of Mary*

Where Mary was born, the atmosphere was silent 

Mary needs a silent atmosphere to take birth. Is there a silent atmosphere in my life? 

Is my life filled with worldly noise? 

Is my life filled with the noise of anger, pride, revenge, greed, selfishness, sin, etc 

One needs to create a silent atmosphere in ones life to prepare a place for mother Mary's birth 

*4) A prayerful Heart*

Marys parents  Sts Joachim and Anne prayed a lot for the birth of Mary 

A prayerful heart is the best place for Mary's birth

Is my life filled with the Spirit of Prayer??

*5) Will Mary take Birth in my life?*

As we are celebrating the nativity of our Blessed Mother, will my Blessed mother take birth in my life? 

Or will I allow myself to enter Her into my heart to take birth there? 

What are the obstacles you find for birth of our Blessed Mother? 

What can I do, to facilitate the birth of Mary in my Heart?? 

Mary's Birth in ones heart will enlighten the Whole life. 

*Think about it*

*🌹Happy Feast of The Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary. May she intercede for all of us 🌹*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The time is running out

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:20-26*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 7:25-31*

*The time is running out*

*1) Time is the only thing, which can't be stopped*

Time is one of the special things in our life, which can't be stopped by anything in this world

Time is always moving. It is even difficult to pin point which is the present moment, because its moving continuously

*2) Time of Our life*

The moment we take birth into this life, our time begins 

Once the time of our life begins, nothing can stop this time in our life 

Its continuously moving and each moment that we spent is gone for ever

No human being or no power on earth can bring back the time which is spent. Nothing can stop the movement of time 

*3) Time of our life can't be increased*

There is no possibility of increasing the time of our life 

God has already fixed the time of our life and this time is running out each moment 

Once we realise this fact our attitude will change and we will become better human beings 

*4)  Not to involve in unnecessary things*

In today's first reading, St Paul warns us that, since time is running out or time is short, one should not involve in unnecessary or useless things. 

Since time is precious and there is lots of good things to do, there is no time to spend in unnecessary things 

So one should on watch about how one spends his/her time 

*5) How much time we spend for God?*

Time is the precious gift of God. If so how much time we spend for God?, is a important question to reflect 

Today we spend much of our time in social media and in other gadgets like mobile, TV, Computers in useless things 

So it is a serious question to reflect by all of us 

*6) There is no time to hate*

*If you judge people, you have no time to love them.* Mother Teresa

So even in our life if we gossip where is the time to speak good about others 

If we keep hatred towards others where is the time forgive others 

If we are selfish where is the time to become generous

If we are proud, where is the time to become humble

If we are greedy where is the time to give and to share 

If we are thinking only about worldly things where is the time to think about heavenly things 

If we waste our time where is the time to learn

*Be aware time is running out. What will you do??*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Going up to the Mountain and coming down to the Level ground

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:12-19*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 6:1-11*

*Going up to the Mountain and coming down to the Level ground*

*1) Jesus went up to the Mountain*

With a specific purpose, Jesus went up to thr mountain

He wanted to pray and to spend time with the Father. So he went up to the Mountain

Since mountain is specially identified with the presence of God, an encounter with God, it is the best place for prayer and God experience

*2) The Whole plan takes place at the mountain*

After spending sufficient amount of time in the mountain, Jesus chooses the 12 Apostles 

These 12 Apostles will form a strong group to establish the Kingdom of Heaven 

So the entire plan takes place at the mountain

*3) Coming down to a level place*

Jesus coming down to a level place is an important movement which has a deep meaning 

Coming down would mean 

Self emptying process of Jesus

Humbling oneself 

Down to earth approach 

People friendly approach

Is a participatory approach

Is becoming one with the others 

So coming down is a very important process in the life of Jesus 

*4) Coming down and the people*

Coming down is needed to meet the people 

High on mountain one can't meet people 

Mountain is to meet God. Where as coming down is needed to meet people 

One who comes down can meet people in their genuine style

Coming down will help us to know the real situation of others 

*5) Coming down in my life*

There are many things from which I need to come down in order to meet others 

Coming down from the pride 

Coming down from ones ego 

Coming down from ones wrong perception

Coming down from arrogance

Coming down from anger 

Coming down from selfishness

Coming down from gossip

Coming down from greed 

So there are many things to come down in my life? 

Am I ready to come down 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*

Withered Hand Vs Withered mind and intention

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:6-11*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 5:1-8*

*Withered Hand Vs Withered mind and intention*

*1) Man with Withered Hand*

In the Gospel we see a man with withered hand. 

When some ones hand is withered, the person may not be able to use his/her hand freely 

Since the right hand of this man was withered, he might have found it very difficult to manage his daily works 

When right hand of the person had deformity it is really difficult to manage. Such a person is not able to work or manage his life in a normal way. He has to depend on some one else at all times 

*2) Jesus heals the man with a Withered hand*

The Gospel mainly focuses on the healing of the man 

As Jesus came out from the synagogue, he saw this man and he healed him 

Jesus healing the man with a withered hand gives a powerful message that Jesus is able to heal any physical deformity 

This healing has to be seen in the context of the attitude of Sribes and Pharisees

*3) The Withered minds and thoughts of Sribes and Pharisees*

The Gospel makes it very clear that what was the intention of the Sribes and Pharisees

They watched closely to Jesus to find fault with him 

Their intention is to accuse Jesus 

By seeing the good work or the healing they became angry 

They came together to discuss and plan how to trap Jesus 

All these above things show that their minds and thoughts were evil. In other words we can say their minds and thoughts were withered 

*4) Withered minds and thoughts are dangerous*

Comparing to withered hand and withered minds and thoughts, the attitude of Scribes and Pharisees were more dangerous than the withered hands 

They are dangerous because they try to destroy other other, spoil the good name of the other and create a obstacle for good works 

*5) Jesus healed man with withered hands but not the withered thoughts and minds of Scribes and Pharisees*

Towards the end of the Gospel it is very clear that man with withered hand was healed and not the withered thoughts and minds of the Sribes and Pharisees

It is very easy to cure the physical ailments but it is very difficult to cure the sickness of mind and thoughts 

When the mind is vicious, when thoughts are evil and when heart is crooked, nothing can save a person 

So withered heart, mind, thoughts, attitudes are more dangerous than anything in this world 

*6) How is my life?*

There are two things 

Withered hands symbolises the physical ailments which can be treated easily 

Withered thoughts, mind, heart and attitude is very difficult to heal 

To which category do I belong? 

Do I possess the withered mind, heart, thoughts, and attitude? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

A Blue Print to Follow Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 23rd  Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 14:25-33*

*First Reading : Wis 9:13-18b*

*A Blue Print to Follow Jesus*

*1) The need of a blue Print*

A Blue print is a design plan, which is used construct a building and to plan the work and its whole expenses 

When a blue print is prepared, the whole project becomes very clear and work becomes easy 

The blue print also gives the details challenges and  problems which helps us to plan the work in a better way 

*2) Jesus speaks about the Blue print in today's Gospel*

In today's Gospel Jesus gives us two examples in which Jesus draws our attention to the blue print of the project 

*First Project : Construction of a Tower*

In this particular project Jesus draws our attention to the following things 

Calculation of the cost 

Enough material for the completion of the work 

Need of the various resources to complete the project 

These things which are highlighted by Jesus, speak nothing but the blue print of the project 

*Second project : Plan for a Battle*

The following things are highlighted by Jesus 

The strength of the Troop 

The capacity of the troop to capture the enemies 

The strength and weaknesses of the opposite team 

The possibility of winning the battle

The weak points where the king would lose the battle 

Once again all these things will help the king to prepare a blue print to complete the battle

*3) Blue Print to Follow Jesus*

In the Gospel Jesus gives us a blue print to His followes if they want to follow Him 

The blue print consists the following points 

1) Hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters

2) Hating of ones own life 

3) Carrying the Cross, and following Jesus 

This is the blue print of Jesus to follow Him 

*4) Project without Blue print*

A project with out blue print will collapse

First of all, there will not be any particular plan and secondly no one will be sure in what way to proceed the work

Finally everything will be in chaos and plan will claspe. 

Like wise with the blue print our efforts to follow Jesus will be in vain

*5) Blue print to know God's plan*

The first Reading of the day from the book of wisdom says *Who can know God’s counsel, or who can conceive what the LORD intends?*

So the blue print will help us to know the designs of God 

There are two things which will help us to prepare the blue print 

1) Wisdom, which comes from God 

2) The gift of the Holy Spirit

These two things will help us to prepare the Blue print which will help us to follow Jesus 

*6) What is the Blue print of my Life?*

Having known the importance of the blue print, what is the blue print of my life? 

Is my blue print designed according to the worldly standards or according to the Heavenly standards? 

Is the blue print based on material things or on spiritual things? 

What is the effectiveness of my blue print in flowing Jesus??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*