To Which Side God will Choose me? Right or Left?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : Lenten Season - 1st Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 25:31-46*

*First Reading : Lv 19:1-2, 11-18*

*To Which Side God will Choose me? Right or Left?*

*1) The Separation - to the Right and Left*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the Separation and the places of Right and Left 

Separation is inevitable, because Good and bad can't exist together. Good has to be separated from the Bad 

The Sides which are mentioned in the Gospel, right and left are very important to our life 

Right represents the Good and left represents the Bad and Evil 

*2) After Separation to Which side I will be placed?*

This is not the imagination. This is the reality of our life 

Our final destiny depends on the separation and the side to which we will asked to go

If so, it is a very serious question, to be reflected by us, every day and every moment 

So we need to think about this issue very seriously

*3) All of us wish to have Right Side*

It is our natural tendency to have right side, where we will have our real and lasting reward. 

But mere wish will not reach us there. We need to work for it. Only those who are able to work according to the demands of the Gospel will be able to attain the Right side 

*4) The Way to Right Side*

The Gospel gives us the variety of things which help us to have a way to right side. They are the following 

Giving food to the hungry and the needy 

Giving drink to the thirty 

Giving a warm welcome to the stranger and helping

Giving clothing to the naked 

Treating the sick and dying 

Visiting and comforting those who are in prison. 

These appears to be very simple, but one needs a selfless heart and generous attitude to do these things to ones neighbor

*5) Without the Neighbor, no Right side is possible*

The Gospel makes it very clear that there is no substitute to service to the neighbour 

Without serving and helping the neighbour, one can't even think of right side 

There are no short cut methods or other ways for right side 

The way to right side only goes through the neighbours life

The person may achiev any heights. But if he/she has not done anything to the needy and the suffering, no possibility of right side 

*6) Lent is a time to think and work for right Side*

We are in the lent. Almsgiving is one of the strong pillars of lent 

Almsgiving is the direct way which leads to the right side 

The success of Today's Gospel depends on the aspect of almsgiving. 

One who practices this will be eligible for the right right 

If so, am I eligible for right side? What can I do more to qualify myself to the right side???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Colourful Modern Devil

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : Lenten Season - 1st Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 4:1-11*

*First Reading : Gn 2:7-9; 3:1-7*

*SECOND READING Rom 5:12-19 or 5:12, 17-19*

*The Colourful Modern Devil*

*1) The Temptation Sunday*

The first Sunday of Lent is called, Temptation Sunday, because on this day we meditate and reflect on the temptations of Jesus 

Since the temptation is a common factor which is influencing everyone, it is very important to reflect about its consequences and to be alert about it 

There is no human being in Earth, who is free from temptation. All of us are tempted in one way or the other 

*2) Temptation and the Devil*

The Devil is the temptor. Its only work is to tempt people and to take away from God

The same devil also tried with Jesus, but it could not succeed. 

This shows that devils power is limited and if one is strong, it can do nothing 

*3) Jesus know it was Devil*

When the devil came to tempt Jesus, Jesus clearly knew that it was devil who was tempting Him 

So He was able to challenge Him in everything. Finally the devil left Him 

Knowing at that moment was very important. Only when one knows that, it was devil, one can fight back in a better way 

*4) My Awareness about the Devil*

At times my awareness about the devil is very limited 

Some times we are not able to realise that it is the devil who tempts us

The ignorance of ours, also makes the devil to have upper hand and we become easy prey to devil 

*5) Modern Colourful Devil*

Today we have failed to identify the devil and its temptations because of its variety and colourful ways

The modern means which are terribly used by the devil to destroy the human beings would be the following 

The Mobile 

The internet

The vedio games 

The modern gadgets

The money 

The power 

The colourful celebratiobs 

The drinks, drugs, 

The junk food 

Bodily pleasures 

The comfortable and easy life 

These are the various means through which the devil tempts us in a colourful way 

*6) Am I alert?*

The devil is always active to tempt me. So I need to be very alert at all times 

The following things will help to be remain alert and fight back at the temptations of devil

The scripture reading 

Prayer 

Celebration of the sacraments

Personal prayer life 

Sacramental adoration

Self discipline

Praying Rosary 

Living a good and genuine life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Doctor is always with the Sick, and Sick always approach the Doctor

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : Lenten Season - Saturday after Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 5:27-32*

*First Reading : Is 58:9b-14*

*Doctor is always with the Sick, and Sick always approach the Doctor*

*1) Doctor and the Sick*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus speaks about the Physician and the Sick, towards the end of the Gospel

In explaining the connection between Him and the Sinners, Jesus uses this expression *“Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do.*

From this expression, Jesus also refers His relationship with the sinners *I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners*

So we see a close connection between these two relationships

*2) Doctor is Always with Sick*

Any physician we see in and around us, they are always with the Sick people 

From morning till evening they are at service of Sick people 

On the other hand, all the sick people approach the physician for the treatment and for the healing 

This is our practical experience in life 

So doctors and sick people always stay connected with each other 

*3) Jesus the Divine Physician*

Jesus came to this world as a divine physician. This is very clear from today's Gospel

Apart from this, in the Gospel we have many references where, Jesus appears as healer

Jesus healed all kinds of sicknesses. He healed the persons suffering from fever, leprosy, evil spirits and other various sicknesses 

*4) The Speciality of the Divine Healer*

Jesus the Divine healer, healed not only the physical sicknesses, but He healed many spiritual illnesses of the people 

There are many instances in the Gospel. The Samaritan woman, Matthew the Levi, Zacchaeus, and others 

This is the speciality of Jesus the divine healer 

*5) We are all Sick People*

All of us are suffering from either one or the sickness

Most of us are physically and Spiritually sick, and our Spiritual sickness can be healed only by Jesus 

It is very important to realise that all of us are spiritually sick. This realization is a great realization and which brings a drastic change in our life 

*6) Lent is a special time of Treatment*

Even when we are physically sick, there are times, when we get special concession in treating our illnesses. When we use these opportunities, our sicknesses are easily treated and without much cost, we are able to treat the sickness

In the same way, Lent is a Special time to treat our spiritual sicknesses. 

During this time, God gives us special concession in the form of Grace and Forgiveness, and we are helped from all the sides to get rid of our spiritual sicknesses

The only condition is that, we need to approach the divine healer and expose ourselves to His divine treatment. 

All those who are ready to do this, will be healed from their spiritual as well as physical sicknesses and will be able to experience life in a different way 

So what is my Response???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Real Meaning of the Fast

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : Lenten Season - Friday after Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:14-15*

*First Reading : Is 58:1-9a*

*The Real Meaning of the Fast*

*1) Lent and Fast*

Fasting is  one of the three pillars  of the Lenten season

Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving are given highest importance during this time and they have lot of influence on our life 

Lent and fast are two inseparable realities 

*2) Fasting in the Book of Isaiah*

The first reading of today gives us a clear picture of fasting 

Fasting is not merely, abstaining from eating some food, rather, fasting has deeper meaning 

Various aspects of fasting are mentioned in today's first reading. They are the following

*Releasing those bound unjustly*

First of all we need to release our soul from the bondages of sin. Our fast should aim in achieving this goal 

*Untying the thongs of the yoke*

The yoke of pride

The yoke of anger 

The yoke of ego

The yoke of selfishness

The yoke of greed

The yoke of hatred

The yoke of jealousy 

The yoke of gossip

Need to untie our self from these above yokes 

*Setting free the oppressed*

Oppression leads to slavery. So all that leads to oppression needs to be uprooted 

*Sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; Clothing the naked when you see them*

The fasting involves very much the basic needs to the human beings 

Food, clothing and Shelter, if these are not given any importance life has no meaning 

If my fast does not address these basic fundamental issues of human being, then my fast has no meaning 

In simple words fasting is nothing but, trying ones best to provide for the basic needs of the human beings, through love sacrifice and hard work 

*3) What does my fast consists in?*

Is it merely giving up some food items? 

Who is benefiting from such a fast? Either the self or the other? 

Does my fast has connection only with myself and my family or my neighbour as well? 

Does my fast bring any chance within me and in my surrounding?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Take up the Cross daily and follow me

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : Lenten Season - Thursday after Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:22-25*

*First Reading : Dt 30:15-20*

*Take up the Cross daily and follow me*

*1) Jesus, Cross, and the Follower*

There are three important things, which are highlighted in today's Gospel. 

All these three things are closely connected with each other and they can't be disconnected from one another 

Wherever Jesus is there, the Cross follows, and wherever Cross is there, there is the presence of Jesus is found. So a follower can't follow Jesus without the Cross. 

So all these are closely connected with each other.

*2) Cross is not a one time project of our life*

It is not one event or one project which has to be taken up and completed within a certain period of time 

Rather Cross is the *Process* in our life. A process continues for a long period of time, identifing and revealing new things about various realities 

*3) Why to take up the Cross Daily?*

First of all, with out Cross there is no existence for our life 

Secondly, as a follower of Christ, one can't discard the cross and live 

Thirdly, there are crosses in our life, which are inseparable. So by all means one has to accept and carry it 

*4) Benefits of taking up the  Cross Daily*

One begins the fresh journey everyday

It helps a person to become familiar with the Cross 

It strengthens the relationship with the Cross

In the process, the cross also reveals lots of truths about our life 

The cross helps us to find out the deeper meaning of our life 

The cross make us strong persons and we are in a better position to face all the challenges of our life 

*5) Daily Crosses of Our life*

Here cross refers all those things, which are difficult to accept and practice, but at the end they give us only the victory

Forgiveness

Sacrifice

Love

Generosity

Humility

Truthfulness

Sharing 

Simplicity

Sickness 

Struggles of Life 

All these are not one time project. They are to be taken again and again and need to be practiced everyday.

 *That is what is meant take up your cross daily and follow me*

*6) Lent and Cross*

These two realities have close relationship. 

Lent can't pass, without cross, and cross can't get its meaning without lent 

So lent is a special time to reflect about the cross, the crosses which are mentioned above 

*7) Am I ready to take up my crosses?*

Jesus doesn't force anyone to take up the cross. He says *“If anyone wishes to come after me*

But one can't follow Jesus without taking up cross

So it all depends on me. 

Am I ready to take up the cross daily and ready to follow Jesus?? 

How beautiful is the life of a person who takes up the cross daily and follows Jesus, because, He/She will never be a loser

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Ash Wednesday - A Symbol of Destruction & a symbol of Transformation

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : Lenten Season - Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 6:1-6, 16-18*

*First Reading : Jl 2:12-18*

*Ash Wednesday - A Symbol of Destruction & a symbol of Transformation*

*1) Ash on Ash Wednesday*

The first  Wednesday of the Lent, is called Ash Wednesday, because of the use of *Ashes* on this particular day 

So it is popularly known as Ash Wednesday and Ashes play a very important role and convey a powerful message to the Lenten season

*2) Two powerful meanings of Ashes*

*A) A symbol of Destruction*

Ash comes always after something is burnt. Without burning something there is no possibility of getting the ashes 

So the very fact there is ash in some place, it is a symbol that some destruction has already taken place 

*B) A symbol of Transformation*

Ashes always presupposes the existence of the fire 

Only after fire, there will be ashes. 

So, when something is put in the fire, it completely changes its very nature, and it takes a thing into another level of existence, that is the ashes

So the transformation from its existence to the ashes, which is seen as new existence

*3) Destruction and Transformation in Lent*

These are the two key words, which have deep meaning in our life 

Lent calls us to destroy the following things and tranform our life in this way 

Destroy Pride and transform into humility

Destroy Anger and transfrom into peace

Destroy Jealousy and transform to encourage one another 

Destroy Greed and tranfrom into generosity

Destroy Hatred and transform into love

Destroy Revenge and transform into forgiveness

Destroy Gossip and transform into facts and truth

Destroy Doubt and transform into belief and faith 

Destroy Duplicity and transform into sincerity

Destroy Hypocrisy and transform to become genuine 

Destroy Bodily pleasures and transform to souls comforts 

Destroy Desires of the flesh and transform to practice self control 

*4) Instruments needed for Destruction and Transformation*

The Gospel of the day gives us three important instruments 

*A) Prayer* One of the powerful and non replaceable instruments 

There is no alternative for prayer. So we are bound to use this instrument. 

The more we use this instrument, the more we are transformed

*B) Fasting* Another important instrument, which works very powerfully in creating a self discipline and change 

More than fasting from various food items, fasting from our bad and evil effects is more important and recommend

*C) Almsgiving* Generosity is seen here. 

To defeat the evil effects of selfishness and greed, almsgiving works as sword, in transforming our life 

*5) Why 40 days?*

Apart from the biblical significance of the number 40, this could be one of the reasons why 40 days are important

40 days is a good time, neither too long nor too short 

It is a period, which is sufficient to destroy the evil in our lives and to transform our life

If a person is not able to have these two important things, neither 40 years will have no effects 

So whatever change we wish, if we are really serious and determined, we can achieve within 40 days, with the Grace of God. 

*6) Lent is another New Beginning of our Life*

It calls us to have a new beginning in our life 

This is also apt and good time to bring change in our life 

The atmosphere, and the mood of the time, powerfully influences us in bringing the change in our life

So am I ready for destruction and transformation??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do you wish to become great or First?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 7th Week - Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:30-37*

*First Reading : Sir 2:1-11*

*Do you wish to become great or First???*

*1) Greatest, First and Last*

These are the three words which we find in today's Gospel. 

The disciples were busy in discussing about who was greatest among them 

Jesus Speaks about not the *greatest* but the *First*

So what is the difference between these 

*2) Greatest Among the Disciples*

In the discussion among the disciples there is a comparison between them 

Greatest is always measured by comparing the others value or worth 

So they were trying to see who is good among themselves according to their understanding or according to the worldly understanding

*3) First and Last in Jesus' teaching*

Here we don't have comparison. One is not compared With others 

Instead of Comparison we have a model. That is the *Child Model*

Since there is no comparison but only a model to be followed one needs to evaluate ones life based on *Child Model* and not comparing among oneself 

*4) Child Model and Comparison*

In Child model there is a perfection

There are some things which are perfect without any doubt 

A model is always a replica of perfection

In comparison there is no perfection, there are no yardsticks to evaluate what is perfect and what is best 

So Jesus speaks about the *First* and not the *Greatest*

Greatest is based on worldly standards. But *First* is based on Gospel Values

*5) How to Become First*

One needs to follow the child Model 

In Child model these things are in a perfect way 

Trust in Parents/God

Bond of relationship

No revengeful attitude 

No gossip

No ambition for worldly things 

Cleanliness of Heart and Mind

No selfish interests

No accumulated things 

Trying to become happy with whatever it has 

*6) Do you wish to become First?*

If yes, need to follow the Child Model 

What are the values of Child model I have in my Life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We need to die to evil things inorder to be raised by Jesus in Holiness

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 7th Week -  Monday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:14-29*

*First Reading : Sir 1:1-10*

*We need to die to evil things inorder to be raised by Jesus in Holiness*

*1) He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead*

In the Gospel of the day we have a incident, where Jesus delivers a boy from evil Spirit

This evil spirit in the Boy, tried itsaximun to kill the boy, by trying to put him to the fire and Water 

But the evil spirit could not succeed. Finally the boy was brought to Jesus and Jesus delivered the Boy from the Evil Spirit

In the Process of delivering from the evil spirit, the boy became corpse, which means that boy appeared like a dead man 

*2) The boy becomes like a Corpse*

This has great relevance in the context 

When the evil spirit, left him, he became like corpse. He was completely dead 

This dead is seen not from the physical point of view. But it should be seen at the different level 

The boy was completely dead to the evil spirit and its influences 

So it is the death of the Evil Spirit and not the Boy 

*3) The raising of the Boy by Jesus*

Here we need to carefully observe the happenings

Jesus raised Him, when he was completely dead to the Evil Spirit

So we need to note that, in order to be raised by Jesus for holy things we need to die completely to the evil things in our life 

Only then Jesus will raise us to new life, a life of Holiness

*4) The Various Evil Spirit in our life*

There are many evil spirits which rule our life 

The evil Spirit of Pride

The evil Spirit of Hatred 

The evil Spirit of revenge

The evil Spirit of Ego 

The evil Spirit of Anger 

The evil Spirit of selfishness

The evil Spirit of self centeredness 

The evil Spirit of greed 

*5) Am I ready to Die?*

One important thing which we need to do in order to die to the Evil Spirit is, we need to come to Jesus 

Secondly, we need to Power of Prayer 

Thirdly we must allow ourselves to be raised by Jesus in Holy 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*

Jesus invites us to break the unreasonable and Evil things

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 7th Week - Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:38-48*

*First Reading : Lv 19:1-2, 17-18*

*SECOND READING - 1 Cor 3:16-23*

*Jesus invites us to break the unreasonable and Evil things*

*1) An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth*

This is one of the ancient laws, which has been in force even now in certain forms in certain countries

The earliest known use of the principle appears in the Code of Hammurabi.

This law has its own benefits as well as evil effects 

When this principle is strictly followed it becomes an opportunity to take revenge or to pay back the same evil thing, which has been caused by the person 

*2) Chain Continues*

When the principle, Eye for an eye and tooth for an tooth, the chain of evil things continues, instead of breaking the Chain 

When a person does something evil, if he/she is paid back in the same amount, the relatives or family members or friends may try to pay back the same things, which he/she had done. 

So it continues. Theoretically there is no end for such things. Neither in practical level it does not stop at one moment. The revenge continues and it comes out in different forms at different time. 

*3) Jesus invites us to break the Chain*

In this particular context, in the Gospel of the Day, Jesus calls us to break the chain of revengeful things by changing the situation or by changing the revengeful attitude  into loving attitude 

Pay back Love and forgiveness instead of revenge, anger and hatred. 

The attitude of Love and forgiveness, breaks the Chain of revengeful attitude and new form of life emerges

So Jesus invites us to break the Chain of hatred and revenge 

*4) Jesus broke the Chain of Evil Things*

Jesus didn't follow the Eye for an eye and tooth for an tooth principle

He called for a chance and asked his follower to venture into it. 

Before that, He himself practiced the New Law, which is the Law of Love, and showed the path to break the Chain of evil things 

He forgave the criminals on the Cross and gave salvation

He brkoe the unreasonable laws in the society and mixed with Sinners and prostitutes 

He touched the lepers and healed them 

He talked with Samaritan woman and showed the way to lead a good life

By this Jesus gave foundation to a new Chain, 

A chain of good works

A chain of merciful works 

A chain of service works

A chain of sacrificial works 

A chain of forgiving works 

A chain of saving life - works 

A chain of Loving works 

*5) Am I ready to break the Chain?*

The main mission of the follower of Jesus is to follow Jesus and to do what Jesus did 

Jesus broke the Chain of unreasonable things and reactions filled with anger, hatred and revenge

If so, am I ready to break the Chain of the power of the Wordly things?

*6) Things needed to break the Chain*

A strong faith in God 

A true realisation of what is true and what is false 

Determination to bring some change in my life and then in the surroundings

The power of the Scriptures

The power of the Eucharist

The power of reconciliation

The power of service 

All these things will help us to break the Chain of unreasonable things 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Dazzling white Cloths of Jesus and its importance

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 6th Week - Saturday*

*Gospel :  Mk 9:2-13*

*First Reading : Heb 11:1-7*

*Dazzling white Cloths of Jesus and its importance*

*1) Transfiguration of Jesus and the White cloths*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the transfiguration of Jesus 

In this context, we read that, the cloths became white when the transfiguration of Jesus took place

So what the importance of this? What is the relevance of this to our life 

*2) The Quality of the White cloths its Colour*

The Gospel speaks about the quality the white cloth and it's colour 

The cloth was so much White, no one can ever create such white  colour 

*A) The origin of the White cloth*  So it is clear that White garment of Jesus belongs to a different world altogether. This world is heaven. So white clothes represents, that Jesus is not from this world but from another world 

*B) The divine nature of  Jesus*

The white cloth also represents the divine nature of  Jesus. 

It speaks about that Jesus is the Son of God 

*C) Thirdly it speaks about the purity, perfection, cleanliness of Heart and Mind

White colour represents all these above values

*3) Revelation of Gods glory through Jesus*

Transfiguration of Jesus was a great Event.

In and through the transfiguration, there was a great revelation. 

Peter, John and James were able to have the glimpses the Great Revelation. 

So once again the White cloth, is also becomes an instrument, to witness the revaltion of Jesus 

*4) The Resurrected Jesus*

 Here we see once again Jesus on the White cloths on sabbath day 

   

So white cloth is the Symbol of the resurrected  Christ. So, here also we get the importance of White Cloths

The scene Revelation, John records the 144 thousand people who have dressed  in white cloths 

So white cloth and its colour reprents the, divine nature of  God and divine realities 

*5) Our Baptism*

There is a ceremony of blessing the child with White cloth 

The child is then kept at the Altar and the brought by the mother

Here once again the importance  White clothes and  prayers can be realized 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Will I be able to see and live in the Kingdom of God before my death

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 6th Week - Friday*

*Gospel : Mk 8:34-9:1*

*First Reading : Gn 11:1-9*

*Will I be able to see and live in the Kingdom of God before my death*

*1) There are some standing here who will not taste death until they see that the Kingdom of God has come in power.*

In the Gospel of the day, Jesus makes this powerful and solemn declaration about the Kingdom of God. 

It is about seeing the Kingdom of God, Witnessing the Kingdom of God and living in the Kingdom of God before ones death 

Jesus also says that *there are some* who will see and taste the Kingdom of God 

So among this some, will I be the One?

*2) The Kingdom of God*

Jesus says that the Kingdom of God has already come and the Kingdom of God is among you - Luke 17: 21

Since the Kingdom of God is among us, we need not go in search of it. But we need to realise its presence amdist us 

So how to see this Kingdom of God and to live in it before we die??

*3) The Experience of the Kingdom of God*

Since the Kingdom of God amdist us, we need to experience it.

The various ways of experiencing the Kingdom of God would be the Following

When we practice the Kingdom values we are able to experience the Kingdom of God 

The Kingdom Values are 

Forgiveness

Love

Sacrifice

Compassion

Humility

Sharing, Generosity

Simplicity

Kindness

Happiness

Joyfulness 

Prayerfulness

Trust, faithfulness

Hope, Faith in God 

Justice

When we are able to experience these kingdom values, it equal to seeing the Kingdom of God and living in it, by experiening it 

*4) Its a great tragedy to live our life without seeing the Kingdom of God*

The Kingdom of God, which is present among us, if we fail to see it and experience it, it would be a great tragedy of our life 

Those people who live according to the values of this world are unable to see and experience the Kingdom of God

Those who fail in this fundamental mission, life becomes a tragedy

*5) Am I able to see and experience the Kingdom of God?*

This is the important and fundamental question of our life 

We have been created and sent in this world to see the Kingdom of God and to build the Kingdom of God

If so, then we have more responsibility to see and experience the Kingdom of God. 

So what about my life? Will I be the one who will see the Kingdom of God before my death??

Those who are not able to see the kingdom of God, when one lives in this world, he/she will never be able to see the Kingdom of God, even after ones death

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Be fertile and multiply and fill the earth" - The Triple Mission

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 6th Week - Thursday*

*Gospel : Gn 9:1-13*

*First Reading : Mk 8:27-33*

*"Be fertile and multiply and fill the earth"  - The Triple Mission* 

*1) God's Command*

The above command is found in the Book of Genesis . God said this to Noah, which is applicable to all human beings 

In the Above command there is a threefold mission. 

This threefold mission comprises the building of the Kingdom of God here on earth 

*2) Three Fold Mission*

*A) Be Fruitful* All of are called to fruitful in our life

A fruitful person is the one who is able to produce good results through ones work 

We should never become fruitless persons. Fruitless tree is cut and thrown into fire. Like wise if we are fruitless we will be thrown into the fire of hell 

*B) Multiply*

It is not enough to become fruitful. But we need to multiply the good fruit in our surroundings 

 When we multiply the good fruits we are able to share with others 

By multiplying the good works we are able to spread only the good works, which creates a positive feelings everywhere. 

*C) Fill the Earth*

When we become fruitful, the works are multiplied. The multiplied works must fill our surroundings 

If the multiplied works are kept only with us, then we become selfish. That is why we need to share with others 

That is the meaning of filling the earth. When we fill the earth with good works, the God's Kingdom is built in our surroundings

*3) Triple mission in all areas of Life*

In the context it is understood that fruitful, multiplying and filling the earth is referred to the mission of the family 

But at the same time, this triple mission is applicable to all the areas of our life 

Each of us have our particular mission. Either teaching, guiding, helping, serving, etc

We are called to become fruitful, multiply and fill the earth in whatever we do 

So this triple mission is applicable to all the areas of our life 

*4) My Life*

In what areas of my life is very fruitful? 

What areas of my life is being multiplied?? 

What areas of my life is filling the earth? 

How this triple mission is realised through my life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus Touched the Eyes of the Blind man. What about me??

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 6th Week - Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 8:22-26*

*First Reading : Gn 8:6-13, 20-22*

*Jesus Touched the Eyes of the Blind man. What about me??*

*1) Blind man was brought to Jesus*

The Gospel clearly tells us that, people brought a blind man, who was not able to see anything and asked Jesus to cure him from the blindness

Jesus took the blind man by hand, touched his eyes two times and the blind man regained his eye sight and he was able to see 

So the *Divine Touch* of Jesus healed the person from his blindness

*2) All of us blind in one or the other areas*

The blind man of the Gospel represents me. Like that blind man I am also suffering from different types of blindness. 

So it is high time that we beg Jesus to touch the blind areas of our life, so that we are healed of our blindness

*3) What are the areas Jesus needs to touch in my life*

Some of these areas in my life may need the divine touch of Jesus  

*The eyes* : to have real sight and the deeper spiritual sight so that we can see what is good, holy, eternal and enduring 

*Ears* Let Jesus touch our ears so that we may be able to hear only that which is good and holy and avoid the gossip

*Heart* Let Jesus touch our hearts so that we may experience the divine love which is the foundation for all types relationship

*Mind* Let Jesus touch our mind, so that we can know what is right and morally good. Let mind may not entertain the bad and evil things 

*Soul* Let Jesus touch our Soul so that it may seek only God and not the worldly things and desire of the Flesh 

*Emotionas* Let Jesus touch all our emotions so that we become the balanced and person with reason and faith. Let our emotions may not lead away from God 

*Body* Let Jesus touch our entire body so that it may become the temple of the Holy Spirit. 

*Hands* Let Jesus touch our hands so that whatever we do may become fruitful and beneficial to all 

*4) Constant touch of Jesus*

Jesus touched the eyes of the blind man twice in order to restore his sight of the eyes 

This shows some areas of our life needs constant touch to keep them holy and use them for the divine work 

*5) Areas through which Jesus touches us today*

Word of God

Eucharist

Reconciliation

Prayer 

Meditation

Adoration

Anointing with the Holy Oil 

Service to the needy 

Generosity

Humility

Loving one another 

Observing the commandments of the Lord 

*6) Am I ready to be touched by Jesus*

First of all I must realise that certain areas of my life needs to divine touch of Jesus 

Secondly we need to expose that particular area to Jesus, so that he may touch us 

Thirdly we must believe that the divine touch of Jesus heals us from every sickness

If so, am I ready??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do You not Remember? The great and wonderful things done by the Lord?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 6th Week - Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mark 8:14-21*

*First Reading : Gen 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10*

*Do You not Remember? The great and wonderful things done by the Lord?*

*1) The Sickness of Forgetfulness*

One of the most important and very essential things in our life is the power of retaining the things and power of forgetfulness

Both these powers are very important very important in our lives. 

We are supposed to forget the memory of all the bad things and retain the memory of good things in life 

At time we follow the reverse logic in our life. We forget all the good things done by the Lord and retain in memory all bad and hurtful things 

*2) Disciples Forgot all good and great things*

Since the disciples were with Jesus, they had witnessed a lot of miracles and great things of Jesus 

It would have sufficient for them to understand and realise the power of Jesus 

They had witnessed the miracle of feeding the five thousand

They had witnessed the miracle of feeding the four thousand 

In both instances they had eaten with the crowd and had enjoyed the food 

Yet they had forgotten all these things 

So this was the problem of the disciples

*3) How they Forgot??*

They didn't pay attention to the great things. So they could not perceive or understand it 

They didn't not make any efforts to see the miracle aspect from their eyes. So it didn't make any sense to it 

They didn't speak about the greatness of the miracles. So they didn't hear anything about it 

Finally they didn't not reason out in any way the great things. So they didn't understand and finally they forgot everything

*4) Do I remember the Great things of the Lord?*

At times when there are challenges or difficult time many of us easily forget all the good things God has done to us and we blame God for our misfortunes

Many a times this happens in our life. 

 Am I so irresponsible to forget all the good things done by the Lord, and to blame for for every other little problems and challenges in my life? 

Am I suffering from the sickness of forgetting the great and wonderful things done by the Lord? 

*5) Importance of our senses*

The Gospel of the day also highlights the importance of the senses in remembering the great and wonderful things 

Jesus speaks about the eyes, ears, and the mind. All these three faculties play a very important role in knowing the things and retaining in memory 

So we need to pay attention to our eyes, ears, and mind in knowing and understanding the great and wonderful things and retaining in memory

*6) Foundation for greatful heart*

The memory of the good and great things in life, finally creates a thankful and grateful heart

God lives in the grateful and thankful heart 

So one needs to remember the great and wonderful things done by the Lord and others. Which will help us to create a thankful and grateful heart 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How does the Lord leave me at the end of the Day?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 6th Week - Monday*

*Gospel : Mk 8:11-13*

*First Reading : Gn 4:1-15, 25*

*How does the Lord leave me at the end of the Day?*

*1)  Jesus Left Them - (Pharisees)*

The last part of the Gospel says that *he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore.*

This particular sentence has a lot of importance in the context of the Gospel and also in our life 

Let's try to analyse the meaning of this gesture of Jesus in our life 

*2) The reaction of Jesus when he Left*

The Gospel clearly gives the reaction of Jesus. Which can be summarized in the following way 

Jesus felt surprised to see that the Pharisees are asking for a sign from heaven 

He was sad to see their disbelief and the lack of faith 

He was really felt soo much to know the crooked intention of the Pharisees. The intention is to test Jesus 

With sadness Jesus had to counter question them in a different way. The questions was *Why does this generation seek a sign?*

Finally Jesus didn't give any sign because of their crookedness. Jesus had to leave without doing anything for those people 

*3) We meet Jesus during the Day*

From Morning till we go to bed, we encounter Jesus in diffent way 

Reading of the Gospel and meditating it 

Common and personal prayer 

The celebration of various sacraments

The good and charitable work, selfless service

Practice of the Gospel values 

Many other occasions to meet Jesus during the day 

*4) Intention of meeting Jesus*

Pharisees had very crooked and selfish intention of meeting Jesus. That is to trap Jesus and to humiliate Him 

Such intention could not work in any way and finally the Pharisees were losers and they were humiliated by themselves for their crookedness

What is my intention of meeting Jesus? 

What are the intentions I put forward to Jesus when I meet Him? 

Are they self centred and selfish interest? 

Are they centred around on only my wellbeing? 

Do they have any intention of teaching lessons to the other or wishing something bad for others? 

*5) How does the Lord leave at the end of the Day?*

Jesus left the Pharisees, without doing anything or not answering their and with sadness

How does I feel at the end of the day? 

Do I feel that Jesus has left me without answering my prayer? If so I need to find out what sort of prayer I am doing? 

*6) Prophet Simeon's Prayer*

*At last, all powerful Master you give leave to your servant to go in peace, according to your promise*

*For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all nations, the light to enlighten the Gentiles and give glory to Israel, your people*

Wonderful prayer of Prophet Simeon. May our Prayer and divine experience be like this always 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Gift on the Altar and Reconciliation with brother. Which is more important

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 6th Week - Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:17-37 or 5:20-22a, 27-28, 33-34a, 37*

*First Reading : Sir 15:15-20*

*SECOND READING 1 Cor 2:6-10*

*Gift on the Altar and Reconciliation with brother. Which is more important?*

*1) Two things are Highlighted*

In the Gospel of the day, there are many important things which are highlighted. 

Among them two are very important and have lot of implications to our life 

Gift on the altar and reconciliation with brother. 

Need to analyse which is more important in our life 

*2) Gift on the Altar*

This is one of the important and most appealing gestures for all of us 

We love to offer gifts on the Altar and we firmly believe that whatever we offer on the altar, we give to God Himself 

So this has a deeper meaning in our life 

*3) Reconciliation with Brother*

One of the most difficult tasks of our life is reconciling with others

Many of us find extremely difficult to forgive our brothers and sisters and to maintain a good and healthy relationship 

Reconciliation needs a lot of humility and one needs to accept ones weaknesses and shortcomings

*4) Gift on the altar and its value for God*

We offer something to God. But if does not accept our gift what is the use? 

This is what happens when we fail to reconcile with our brothers and sisters 

Many of our offerings have no value for God because there is a problem of reconciliation

*5) Reconciliation is the Foundation for the gift on the altar*

These are not two unrelated things 

They are closely related with each other 

The value of the gift on the altar fully depends on the reconciliation. 

If the reconciliation is taken away the gift has no value. It becomes useless. 

So there is no offering of gift without reconciliation

*6) Reconciliation is the greatest gift on the altar*

There is no greater gift than reconciliation. 

Wherever there is reconciliation, the gift is unconditionally accepted by God 

Reconciliation is the greatest gift of our life on the altar 

*7) Relationship is the common factor*

In both realities the aspect of relationship is more important

In reconciliation the relationship takes the primary place

In offering of gift on the altar the relationship between God and myself takes the primary place 

The relationship between God and me depends on the relationship between our brothers and sisters 

So taken away the good relationship, nothing remains 

*Which is more important in my life? gift on the altar of Reconciliation?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Crowd was with Jesus for THREE Days

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 5th Week - Saturday*

*Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes*

*Gospel : Mk 8:1-10*

*First Reading : Gn 3:9-24*

*The Crowd was with Jesus for THREE Days*

*1) Jesus and the Crowd*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the Crowd, which had been with Jesus for three days 

The Gospel also says that the people had come from great distance

They had come to be with Jesus, listen to Him and to get cured from their sicknesses

*2) The Crowd after Three days*

The Gospel says that when the crowd was there after three days, it had nothing to eat. They were really hungry. 

By looking at that crowd, Jesus felt pity for them, because they had nothing to eat 

Jesus was worried that if they go without food, they will collapse on the way. So He wanted to give them something

*3) The final result after three days*

Jesus didn't leave them on empty stomach. But He performed a miracle for them

The crowd was fully satisfied after eating a good meal 

People were so happy that they enough for eating 

*4) Three days with Jesus*

In our Christian spirituality, Three days with Jesus has a special significance

After three days comes a great victory in the life of Jesus 

Mounday Thursday, Good Friday, and Saturday. Then comes the Easter Sunday. 

Those who are with Jesus for three days will never be lost in life, because it is Jesus who takes care of us, at the end third day 

*5) Three Things: Mission, Passion and Death*

These three things play a very important role in the life of Jesus. Then comes the Resurrection, something which is a great reward for the above three things 

As Christian, we are supposed to be with Jesus in our mission, in our Passion and in our Death

Those who are with Jesus in mission, passion and death, they are surely with Jesus because it is Jesus performs a great miracle

*6) Three days and Triune God*

Being with Three days means being with Triune God

God the Father 

God the Son 

God the Holy Spirit

Those who are with Triune God, they will never be lost. They will be fully satisfied. 

*7) Three days and Holy Family*

Three days spending with Jesus means living in the Holy Family

Joseph Mary and Jesus. Those who are with Holy Family, their life becomes holy and Holiness becomes the great mark of our life

*8) Three days and three moments*

Three important moments of our Life 

Past - Yesterday

Present - Today

Future - Tomorrow

Remain with Jesus at all times. Jesus will save you always 

*9) Three days and our Life*

Three days being with Jesus is also a deep significance to our life  

The Birth and Mission 

The passion and challenges of life 

The death 

Those who are with Jesus they are definitely will participate in the eternal life, in the resurrection

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' Touch to the Tongue

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 5th Week - Friday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:31-37*

*First Reading : 1 Gn 3:1-8*

*Jesus' Touch to the Tongue*

*1) The man with Speech impediment*

The Gospel of the day has a person who had speech problem. He was not able to speak 

The man was brought to Jesus by few people and they requested Jesus to lay His hand on him and to cure the person 

Jesus touched the tongue of the person and he was able to speak. He was liberated from his speech impediment

So the touch of Jesus is very powerful, which cured the person for his problems

*2) The touch of Jesus*

Throughout the Gospels we clearly see that the touch of Jesus is very powerful

The touch of Jesus ultimately brings a change in our life. Either we touch Jesus or if Jesus touches us, we are made well 

In either case we are the beneficiaries of the touch of Jesus 

*3) The Touch of my tongue by Jesus*

Like the person in the Gospel whose tongue was touched by Jesus, we have many beautiful chances, where Jesus touches our Tongue

*A) Word of God* 

When we proclaim the Word of God, our tongue is touched by Jesus. 

Jesus is truely present in His words. So when we read bible and proclaim it, our tongue is touched by Jesus 

*B) Holy Eucharist*

The Body of Christ, the consecrated Host is the real body of Jesus. 

So when we receive communion our tongue is directly touched by Jesus 

This appears to be the most powerful touch of Jesus 

*C) Prayers*

We spend a lot of time in prayer. While praying we praise and thank God. 

So once again Jesus touches our tongue when we pray 

*D) When we utter the Name of Jesus*

Many times during the day knowingly or unknowingly we say the name of Jesus

Each time when we pronounce the name of Jesus, our tongue is touched by Jesus 

*E) Our Words*

When we speak good words, words which have forgiveness, words which have mercy, love, sacrifice, kindness, faithfulness etc our tongue is touched by Jesus 

So today we have many occasions where Jesus touches our tongue

*4) The result of Jesus' Touch*

The person is freed from the speech impediment

What about me? Many times in a day, Jesus touches my tongue and my entire personality. So what is the result?

Do I still suffer with speech impairments?? 

*5) Various Speech impediments*

Usually we suffer from the flowing Speech impediments 

Gossip

Bad words 

Negative and destructive criticism

Telling lies

Boasting oneself at all times 

Verbal abuse

Shouting and yelling out of anger 

All these are various speech impairments

So which of these are 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*

The Divine Motherhood in Syrophoenician Woman

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 5th Week - Thursday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:24-30*

*First Reading : Gn 2:18-25*

*The Divine Motherhood in Syrophoenician Woman*

*1) The Greek Woman*

This woman was a Greek and by birth a Syrophoenician

According to Jews she was a Gentile woman who is not eligible for salvation

A woman who can't speak or mix with Jewish people, because she is gentile and she is a sinner 

*2) The Notice of Syrophoenician Woman*

Jesus went to the district of tyre and entered a house 

It is here this Syrophoenician woman notices Jesus 

She noticed in Jesus a divine power which can heal her daughter 

She noticed in Jesus a authority which can chase the demon out from her daughters life 

She noticed in Jesus a extraordinary person who can cure her daughter from the present situation

In a way she noticed in Jesus many more divine things than anything else 

*3) The Attitude of the Woman*

This woman's attitude was one of praiseworthy

First of all she comes and falls at the feet of Jesus. This is the height of her humility

Then she beggs with Jesus. This is height of her helplessness 

Thirdly she gets a negative reply from Jesus. But she was not disturbed. This is the height of her confidence and level of faith 

Fourthly She beggs for the left over things or those which fall from the Masters table. This shows the height of her faith in Jesus and His work

Fifthly, when Jesus said, Your daughter will be made well, she simply believed and went back. This shows the absence of any form of Doubt and the trust in the words of Jesus  

*4) She faces all for the sake of Her daughter*

In the the events, it is the heart of the Mother that dominates 

For the sake of her daughters wellbeing, she does all the possible things, even at times negative response, discouragement, helplessness etc. But in all these things we can see the Mothers heart which is ready to face anything for the sake of Good Health of her daughter

*5) Mothers heart is a beautiful thing*

Especially when it comes the wellbeing of the Children, it is the heart of the Mother which really feels for it 

For the wellbeing of the Children, a mother is ready to accept any form of challenges

Finally it is the mothers heart which wins 

*6) My Mother*

What all types of challenges my mother might have faced?

For our wellbeing, how much she might have struggled? 

Do I remember at least few struggles which my Mother faced for my wellbeing

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Heart is not a Garbage Box

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 5th Week - Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:14-23*

*First Reading : Gn 2:4b-9, 15-17*

*Heart is not a Garbage Box*

*1) The use of the Garbage Box*

All of us are familiar with garbage box. 

Garbage box or bag is used for collecting rotten things, disposable materials, unwanted things and waste materials 

No body would like to live near garbage box or no body would like to keep the garbage box inside the House 

*2) Heart and Garbage box*

The Gospel of the day warns us about heart becoming a garbage box 

Jesus gives us a list of rotten, unwanted and poisonous things, which turn our heart into a garbage box 

The list of unwanted things is following *evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly.*

The moment the heart is filled with these things, heart becomes worse than a garbage box 

*3) Heart and Tabernacle*

A Christian heart must be a tabernacle

A tabernacle is holy place and holy thing which is used to keep the consecrated host

Tabernacle is a place of the presence of Jesus, presence of God, and Holy Place 

Tabernacle gets importance and becomes holy because of the presence of Jesus

When Jesus is found in our heart, it becomes a tabernacle, where there is the presence of Jesus and heart becomes holy because of Jesus

*4) Heart attack and heart as Garbage box*

All of us are familiar with heart attack. Whenever there are some symptoms of heart attack immediately we go to the hospital and we treat our heart 

In other words we clean the heart to avoid the heart attack 

What happens when heart becomes a garbage box. There comes the spiritual heart attack, which results in the absence of Jesus and the person is spiritually lost 

So when there are symptoms of heart becoming a garbage box, immediately one need to treat it. So that the spiritual heart could be saved 

*5) Ways to save the heart from Garbage box*

One needs to treat this sickness immediately

The following medicine need to be used in cleaning the Garbage box

The medicine of forgiveness

The medicine of love

The medicine of truth 

The medicine of prayer 

The medicine of meditation

The medicine of sacrifice

The medicine of generosity

The medicine of humility

The medicine of service 

The medicine of discipline

All these medicines will save our heart from becoming a garbage box 

*6) Has my heart become a Garbage box?*

All of us were created by God with a beautiful heart. This heart is a tabernacle, used for the dwelling of the Holy one

But what has happened over the years? 

Have I turned this tabernacle into a Garbage box? 

What are the unwanted things I have stored in it to make it a garbage box? 

Is this Garbage box is stinking and others are getting a bad smell of it? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Beware of Them" - Who are they?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 5th Week - Tuesday*

*Feast of St Gonzalo Garcia - Martyr* 

*Gospel : Matthew 10:17-22*

*First Reading : 2 Cor 6:4-10*

*"Beware of Them" - Who are they?*

*1) Coming Persecutions*

This is the title of today's Gospel. 

This title always indicates that something immediately will come 

This particular title is very relevant to our life, which gives us a warning about the dangerous things that will take place in our life 

From this the attitude of becoming *Beware* about the coming persecution becomes very meaningful to us 

*2) Beware of What?*

The Gospel begins with this word *Beware of them*

What is *them* stands for here? 

From the context it is very clear

From their own people

From their own holy place *Synagogue*

From their own councils

From governors

From Kings 

From family members 

The above mentioned people or places will take as the role of persecutors. Therefore one needs to be careful and beware of these realities 

*3) Deeper and Personal meaning of them*

Apart from the social persecution, there are also other persecutors, about whom we need to be careful 

So *them* stands for the following 

Beware of your ego 

Berware of your arrogance

Beware of your anger 

Beware of your passions 

Beware of your attitude  

Beware of your selfishness

Beware of your jealousy

Beware of your criminal mind 

Beware of your greed

Beware of your self centeredness 

Beware of your hatred

All these things work as persecutors in our life, and at times we suffer terribly because of these things 

*4) Beware of them - Kings and Governors*

Kings and Governors are those who control the entire area and people and rule over them 

Who is the king and Governors of my life? 

The following things could act as governors and kings in ones life

To some money 

To some it is power

To some it is position

To some it is authority

To some it is pleasure

To some it is domination

To some it is easy life 

To some it is name 

To some it is public opinion 

We need to be very careful about these things who take control of our life and persecute us 

*5) Beware at all times*

Since the persecutions are coming, one can't take rest 

The word *coming* is an alarm to become beware about the things and to get ready for the same to fight 

There is no holidays in remaining alert in fighting against our enemies

*6)  Am I aware or alert in my life?*

Have I realised that I need to be very careful and alert about various things in my life? 

What are *them* stands for in my life? 

How powerful *them* is, in my life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

We have been called to become the fringe of Jesus' Garment / The relevance of the Fringe of Jesus' Garment : The Touching of the fringe of Jesus' Garment

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 5th Monday* - 

*Gospel : Mk 6:53-56*

*First Reading : Gn 1:1-19*

*The relevance of the Fringe of Jesus' Garment*

*1)  Jesus' garment and the Fringe of His Garment*

Fringe means the outer or the border area of clothing 

Some times it will be decorative border of hanging threads left loose or formed into tassels or twists, used to edge clothing or material.

People were trying to touch the frigne of the garment of Jesus and all those who touched were freed from their sickness 

*2) Garment, Fringe and Jesus*

The entire garment and the fringe of the garment gets its power or importance because of Jesus 

Since Jesus is wearing the garment, the garment and the fringe of the garment becomes holy and people are cured by the touch of the garment 

Garment itself has no power. It gets its importance because of Jesus

*3) Jesus and other Things*

In our daily life we use lots of things, which are directly connected to Jesus. Following are the examples

Tabernacle which is used for keeping the consecrated host

Ciborium, used for consecrated host 

Monstrance, used for adoration

Chalice, Paten, Cruets, corporal, purificators, Thurible, and other related things 

All these above things are considered to be holy and having some value because they are directly related to the life of Jesus 

They get their power because of Jesus 

*4) Its not a magical power, but the faith of the one who touches it*

The fringe does not have a magical powers in it. But the faith of those people who touch the fringe is very important

All those people who were healed, shows us that, they had real faith in the power of Jesus and in the person of Jesus 

When some one has such a faith, miracles happen even in our life. 

*5) The opportunity to touch the fringe of the garment*

Today we have many occasions to touch the fringe of the garment of Jesus

When we come to the church we touch the fringe of Jesus' garment 

When serve a poor man we touch the fringe of Jesus' garment

When we give our helping hand to some one we touch the fringe of the garment of Jesus 

In fact anything that we do, which results in the divine experience in our life, is equal to touching the fringe of Jesus' garment 

*6) Baptism and the garment of Jesus*

To all the followers of Jesus, a special Jesus' garment is given at the time of our Baptism

So we have the chance to touch this garment every day in our life 

At the same time we should allow others from our life to touch the fringe  of Jesus' garment from our life 

Ultimately the purpose is to have divine experience to become holy persons. 

*7) We are the Fringe of Jesus' Garment*

While doing our ministry 

While serving the poor 

While praying 

While doing the sacrifice

While we show generous heart to others 

8) Benefits of becoming the Fringe of Jesus' Garment*

We are able to heal others 

We are able to help others 

We are able to carry Jesus to others 

9) Requirements to become the Fringe of Jesus' Garment*

Holy life 

Righteousness

Good values 

Life according to Gospel Values 

*10) Am I ready to touch the fringe of Jesus' Garment?*

What about my faith in the fringe of Jesus' garment?

Have I realised the importance of it, in my life? 

What are the various ways through which I can touch the fringe of Jesus' garment? 

What is the level of my desire to touch the fringe of Jesus' garment?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why we are Salt of the Earth?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 5th Week - Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:13-16*

*First Reading : Is 58:7-10*

*SECOND READING - 1 Cor 2:1-5*

*Why we are Salt of the Earth?*

*1) “You are the salt of the earth*

The above sentence from Jesus speaks a lot about our mission and what we are

Jesus is not telling that you will be the salt of the earth or you try to become the salt of the earth

He simply says *You are the salt of the earth*

So all the followers of Jesus is like the salt. We need to realise this fact everyday

*2) Every cell of our body contains salt*

Salt is present in each and every cell our body.

 It is even essential to flush out toxins from the body.

*3) It was used as money*

You will be amused to know that the word "salary" is derived from the Latin word *sal* which means salt.

It is believed that salt was so expensive in the ancient times. Which shows the value of the salt 

The roman soldiers were paid in salt. So one can imagine the importance of the Salt 

*4) Salt is essential for life*

Salt is the main source of sodium and chloride in the human diet. 

It is the source of transportation of nutrients and oxygen and even allows nerves to transmit a message.

Salt has 40 per cent sodium and 60 per cent chloride, by weight. Sodium, which is an essential mineral in salt acts as an important electrolyte in the body. 

*5) Various qualities of Salt*

Salt is white, which is the *symbol of purity*. So salt is pure 

*Salt gives taste.* Anything  that we prepare need to have salt. Only then it gets its taste 

*Salt can preserve the things*

It does not allow anything to decay. It preserves anything that comes to its context 

*Salt has the quality of mixing with other things* When salt is added to something, it becomes one with the reality. It does not remain alof from the reality 

*Salt has the quality of curing some sicknesses*  Some of the skin disease can be cured by taking bath in the salt water 

*6) Am I the salt of the earth?*

After having understood the importance of the salt what about Jesus' words to my life? 

Am I a salt of the earth? Have I lost the quality of salt? 

What are the things in my life, which show me, that I am really the salt of the earth? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The meaning of Hating once Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 4th Week - Saturday*

*Feast of St John De  Britto*

*Gospel : John 12:20-32*

*First Reading : 1 Cor 9:19-27*

*The meaning of Hating once Life*

*1) Jesus on Hating ones life*

Jesus says *Those who hate their life in this world, will keep it for Eternal life*

The question is how to hate ones life? We have heard about loving ones life, but not hating ones life. Is Jesus telling us to hate our own life??

Then what is the meaning of this expression? 

The various explanations could be the following

*2) Hating ones life means not living according to the worldly standards*

The standards of the world are very simple *Eat, drink, make merry and enjoy life*

The world says, go after the pleasures of the flesh, power, money, wealth, property and the worldly things 

The world says, life is there to enjoy. After death nothing can be done. So enjoy life in all ways 

So this is the view of the world. Those who choose this life, will lose their life. And those who go against such view will live their life for eternity 

Going against the worldly standards is nothing but, hating ones life for the sake of eternal life

*3) Hating means following Jesus and not the world*

From the Gospel of the day, the above idea is found 

Hating oneself means following Jesus and saying no to the standards of this world 

Saying no to the worldly standards, results in challenging the desires of the flesh, which ultimately results in hating oneself 

Following Jesus means, living according to the standards of the Gospel, which once again, a strong blow to the worldly  desires of our life 

*4) Hating means Serving the Lord*

This particular idea is also found in today's Gospel

Serving Lord means, seeking the welfare of the others and not the self 

At times we work for our selfish interests, to accumulate wealth, to secure a name, to get power and authority. All these revolves around the self and self glory

Serving needs a total selflessness, free from greed and selfish interests

Such a way of serving demands the control over our bodily self which craves for pleasures of this world 

*5) Hating the self in simple terms*

When a person does the following things, it amounts in hating his/her life in this world for the sake of eternal life 

Forgiveness

Simplicity

Humility

Sacrifice

Love

Sharing

Almsgiving

Prayerfulness

Self discipline

*6) Am I ready to hate my worldly life?*

This is the basic requirement to become the follower of Jesus 

One can't love both, the worldly life and the heavenly life. One form of life has to be hated. Choice is ours

Worldly life has an end. Heavenly life has no end. 

So what is my choice??

*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 life of Salome - The daughter of Herod

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 4th Week - Friday*

*Gospel : Mk 6:14-29*

*First Reading : Heb13:1-8*

*The Tragedy of the life of Salome - The daughter of Herod*

*1) Salome - A talented Girl*

From the Gospel it appears that, Salome was a talented Girl

She had a talent for dance, and her dance delighted king Herod and the guests 

The effect of the dance was so much that King made a big promise *“Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.” He even swore many things to her, "I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.”*

*2) Salome was not able to decide for herself*

When king promised such a great gift to Salome, she was not able to decide what she wanted. 

Hence she approached her mother to ask her guidance 

Here begins the tragedy of the life of salome, because she was not able to decide what is good and what is bad. 

She blindly followed the advice of her mother

*3) Salome was misused by her parents*

This is the greatest tragedy of the life of Salome

Such a young girl who had a bright future was misused by her mother to kill someone and to take revenge 

Salome became the victim of the immoral life of her mother and her grudge against the innocent and Holy Man - John the Baptist 

*4) At the end Salome got nothing*

King had promised her great things. 

But at the end Salome got nothing. 

She got the head of John, which she gave to her mother. By this she got nothing 

Instead of getting she lost some valuable things, she lost her future, she lost her good reputation and she became a murderer of John

She became a tempter and seducer which ended in murdering the Holy Man 

*5) Need to choose right things - advice from right persons*

Three lessons are very powerful from the life of Salome 

When some one promises something to you, ask the right things which can build ones life

Secondly, in case one needs advice, ask from the right persons, who can really motivate and show right direction 

Thirdly, evaluate for yourself or use your reason and prudence to choose what is beneficial to every one, which can build life and foster holiness 

*6) Role of the Parents*

The life of Salome also has a powerful lessons to the parents 

Never to use the children for ones selfish motives at the cost of spoiling their future 

Giving right direction is very important. Children first consult their parents. So parents should be in a position to show the right path, and achieving their goals 

Wrong direction will spoil the entire future of the Children

*At the same time never to give your brains for some one or for rent* - Think about it

So Salome is a important figure in the Bible to learn a lot of lessons for our personal life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Every Christian has the opportunity to see Christ before His/Her Death

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 4th Week - Thursday*

*The Presentation of the Lord - Feast*

*Gospel : Lk 2:22-40 or 2:22-32*

*First Reading : Mal 3:1-4*

*SECOND READING - Heb 2:14-18*

*Every Christian has the opportunity to see Christ before His/Her Death*

*1) Simeon on Seeing the Christ before His Death*

In the context of the presentation of Jesus in the temple, we have a another episode, where the prophet Simeon, was waiting for the Lord to see

The Holy Spirit had revealed him about the seeing of the Lord, before His death 

According to the promise of the Holy Spirit, Simeon was able to see Jesus, hold Jesus in his arms and was able to have the devine encounter before His death 

After seeing the Christ of the Lord, he replies in the following words *"Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.”*

*2) Requirement to see Jesus the Lord*

This we can learn from the Life of Peophet Simeon and prophetess, Anna,

#They were righteous and devout,

#Holy Spirit was upon them 

#They were earnestly waiting for the Lord

#Temple was their home for living 

#They were prayerful persons and spent most time in prayer and fasting 

So these are some of the requirements to see Jesus and to experience Him 

*3) Every Christian gets ample opportunities to see Christ*

To the every baptised child the Holy Spirit reveals that they will not see death until they see the Lord

So this is a great opportunity given to us by God, to see Jesus and to experience His divine power and experience

Seeing Jesus and experiencing Jesus is the hallmark of Christian life and Christian Spirituality

*4) Various ways of Seeing Jesus in our day to day Life*

#In the celebration of the Eucharist

#In the Eucharistic Adoration

#In our Prayer life 

#While reading the Word of God and meditating it 

#While serving the poorest of the Poor 

#While living our life according to the Gospel values 

#While receiving the sacrament of reconciliation

#While forgiving the faults of one another 

#While sacrificing ones life for the betterment of the Another 

*5) Have You seen Jesus in your Life?*

This is question, which needs lots of reflection to answer it 

In one word we can say that all of us have seen Jesus in the Gospel, Jesus in the Eucharistic celebration, Jesus in the adoration, Jesus in Holy things 

But the question is what has happened in my life, after seeing Jesus? 

*6) The effect of Seeing Jesus*

Seeing Jesus means not merely with the bodily eyes 

One should see Jesus with deep faith, from the heart and from ones deep rooted relationship with Christ

Such seeing only will create a transformative effect in our life 

Mother Theresa saw Jesus in the poor which changed her life 

Fr Stan Swamy saw Jesus in the poor, which changed His life

Zacchaeus saw Jesus from his heart and mind, which changed his Life 

You and me seeing Jesus every day in different people, in different situations and in different context.

What is the effect of it? 

Before my death, will I be able to see Jesus in real spirit??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*