The Followers of Jesus do not belong to this World

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season : Fifth Week : Saturday*   

*Gospel : Jn 15:18-21*

*First Reading : Acts 16:1-10*

*The Followers of Jesus do not belong to this World*

*1) The meaning of belonging to this world*

In simple words it can be understood as, living ones life according to the standards of this world 

One who belongs to this world, will try to follow the model of this world 

The model of this world always tempts you to posses the worldly things and material possessions

*2) The followers of Jesus belong to Jesus*

Since Jesus does not follow the standards of this world, neither the followers of Jesus can adopt this style in ones life 

Since Jesus has chosen all of us, for a particular purpose, we are suppose to follow the model of Jesus in achieving this purpose 

It is Jesus who works in and through us. Our work is to cooperate with the Lord, in building the Kingdom of God, here on earth

*3) The challenges by the World to the Followers of Jesus*

These are the challenges, which the world throws at us 

*A) The World will hate us*

Since, we cooperate with Jesus in following the  standards of the Kingdom of God, we say no to the worldly standards. That is the reason why God will hate us 

*B) The world will persecute us* 

This is the another challenge by the world for choosing Jesus  and His standards

These days, we feel the pinch of various persecutions across the nation. 

This clearly indicates that we are faithful to the heavenly standards

*D) The world will spoil the names of the followers of Jesus*

The present situation is the best example to understand this point 

The world spoils our name, by spreading gossip, wrong accusations like conversion and other things as well 

*4) Am I belonging to this World or to Jesus*

If I am following the standards of this world, he/she can't belong to Jesus

If I am with Jesus, then I can do anything that God wishes in my Life 

Where do I belong? To Jesus or to this world 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*