My friend, move up to a higher position.

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 30th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 14:1, 7-11*

*First Reading : Phil 1:18b-26*

*My friend, move up to a higher position.*

*1) Moving to a higher position*

This is one of the main goals of our life 

There is a basic human desire and craving to move to a higher position

Moving to a higher position applies to all areas of our life 

In fact in our daily lives, in moving to the higher position we give more importance to our material wellbeing. 

But this logic can be applied very well to the spiritual areas of our life 

*2) Moving to a higher position in our Spiritual life*

Ultimately our spiritual life only can save us in attaining the eternal life 

In this context, moving to a higher position in our spiritual life is very much necessary

Some of the example could be following

Move to a higher position in forgiving other. It may help us to attain the quality of Jesus' unconditional forgiveness

Move to a higher position in loving other, so as to practice and experience the unconditional love of Jesus 

Move to a higher position in sacrifice to know the real value of Jesus' sacrifice

Move to a higher position in Generosity, simplicity, authenticity, and humility to practice the Kingdom values 

Move to a higher position in sincerity, hardwork and faithfulness

Move to a higher position in serving other to experience the selfless service

Move to a higher position in prayer, discipline, care and concern 

Move to a higher position in ones responsibility, and detaching oneself from the worldly things 

Move to a higher position to say no to greed, pride, revenge, and gossip

So it is a great challenge to move to a higher position in spiritual life 

*3) A challenging task*

To move to a higher position in spiritual life is a great and challenging task which needs continuous and sincere efforts 

The process is very slow and changes come gradually and slowly

But one should try everyday to move to a higher position in order to achieve something in our lives 

*4) Am I moving to a higher position?*

Which are the areas I am moving to a higher position? 

Am I moving to a higher position in practicing the Kingdom values? 

Have I concentrated only in material and wordly things in moving to a higher position? 

My moving to a higher position in any feild, is morally justified or not??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*