Thief who breaks the House and the Thief who breaks the Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 29th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:39-48*

*First Reading : Rom 6:12-18*

*Thief who breaks the House and the Thief who breaks the Life*

*1) Thief in the Gospel*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the thief and Jesus warns us to be careful about this thief. 

Usually all of us are frightened about the Thief and most of the times we are careful about the thieves

*2) The Thief who breaks the House*

The Gospel specifically speaks about the thief who is ready to break the House 

We are familiar with such kind of thieves and we are careful about them 

Such thieves break open the house in order to steal, money, Gold and valuable things 

Our spontaneous response to these thieves would be a kind of preparedness to face them in any situations

*3) Our preparedness towards the Thief who breaks the house*

Every one is careful about these thieves 

All of us make maximum preparations to protect our things from these thieves 

In a way, our preparedness to challenge and to face these thieves would be commendable. Therefore, usually thieves do take chance to break open our houses 

*4) Thieves who break our life*

Like those thieves who break our houses there is also another category of thieves who break our life

These thieves are much more dangerous than those thieves who break our houses 

The Gospel calls us to reflect about such thieves and to prepare ourselves to face them in any situations 

*5) Thieves who break our life*

Satan/Devil 

Sin 

Pride

Arrogance

Hypocrisy

Duplicity

Revenge

Anger 

Selfishness 

Jealousy

Gossip 

Laziness

Self-righteousness 

All these thieves break our life in an unexpected time and unexpected ways

*6) How is my preparedness?*

So there clear understanding about the thieves who break our life. If so what is my preparedness? 

What is my strategy to face the thieves of sin, arrogance, gossip selfishness and pride? 

What is my preparedness to face the Satan and devil? 

What is my preparedness to counter attack the thief, who is all the time ready to break my spiritual life? 

Ultimately what is my preparedness to face the thieves who steal the beauty 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*

Light up your Lamps

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 29th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:35-38*

*First Reading : Rom 5:12, 15b, 17-19, 20b-21*

*Light up your Lamps*

*1) First lighted lamp at the time of Baptism*

Every Christian begins His/Her faith journey through the lighted candle at the time of Baptism

We have given the light of Christ at the time of Baptism, and we are asked to gaurd that light throughout our life 

*2) Lighted Lamp is the Symbol of presence of Someone*

If people are absent in certain place, definitely there will not be light 

Lighted lamp or lighted candle is found where the people are present 

In this way, the lighted candle at the time of Baptism represents the presence of the Risen Christ 

*3) Lighting up the lamp is a ongoing process*

The Gospel of the day speaks about lighting the lamp as a sign of preparation to receive the Master 

In this context the lighted lamp symbolizes the preparedness to receive the Master at any time 

The lighted lamp symbolizes that the servant is ready to receive the Master at any time 

*4) The Mission of lighting the Lamp in our Life*

There are numerous areas in our life, which we need to keep burning, in order to prepare ourselves to receive the Master 

The lighting of the lamp of faith

The lighting of the lamp of prayer 

The lighting of the lamp of forgiveness

The lighting of the lamp of humility

The lighting of the lamp of service 

The lighting of the lamp of simplicity

The lighting of the lamp of sacrifice

The lighting of the lamp of generosity

The lighting of the lamp of Hope

The lighting of the lamp of patience

The lighting of the lamp of sincerity

*5) Light dispels the Darkness*

Jesus is the light of the World and He has chosen every one of us to become the light of the world 

Every burning lamp will dispel the darkness which is around us 

Imagine that everyone's life becomes a burning lamp, the World would become heaven

That is the power of light and burning lamp 

A Christian is sent into the World to light the lamp and dispel the darkness through his/her  life 

Am I ready to make my life and burning lamp?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The importance of Checking ones greed

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 29th Week :Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:13-21*

*First Reading : Rom 4:20-25*

*The importance of Checking ones greed*

*1) Gospel on the evils of Greed*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the evils of greed 

Greed is a desire for more food, money, power, etc. than you really need

Greed is one of the seven capital sins which destroy our life 

Therefore Jesus tells us to be aware of the evils of greed 

*2) The various faces of Greed*

The Gospel of the day lists out the various faces of the evils of greed. They are the following 

*A) Greed makes a person to think only about the self*

This is one of characteristics of greed. The rich person in today's Gospel asks *What shall I do for I do not have space to store my harvest?*

*B) Greed makes a person to do useless work*

The person destroys the existing store house and builds once again 

Instead of this, he could have built new store leaving the existing ones. This is what the greedy person does 

*C) Greedy persons life centers around the material things*

The desire of the flesh and satisfying the desires of flesh is the main aim of the greedy person 

Their Philosophy is, rest, eat, drink, be merry!”’

*D) Greedy person believes in storing and not in giving*

Greedy person thinks life depends on the things stored up for the daily use. *More things, more life* this philosophy rules the life 

*E) Greedy persons are fools in the sight of God*

The greedy person of the Gospel is addressed as fool by God 

Greed makes a person fool and not wise

*3) Greed does not allow the person to enjoy the life*

Greedy person always thinks of getting and possessing more and more 

In this race he/she forgets to find meaning in life. The present moment is always forgotten and always future is thought about 

As a result life becomes a meaningless exercise 

*4) Nothing can be taken with us*

At the end of life, nothing can be taken with us 

God clearly says about this fact *You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?’*

*5) Check your greed*

In today's Gospel Jesus tells all of us to check the aspect of greed in our life 

When a person desires more than what is really needed, then one becomes the greedy person 

Since greed destroys our life, we need to destroy the greed, before it destroys our life 

Life lived in greed has no meaning at all 

Self control and self discipline is the best ways to control and check the greed

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Coin has the inscription of Caesar, What about Human Being?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 29th Week : Sunday*

*Mission Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 22:15-21*

*First Reading : Is 45:1, 4-6*

*SECOND READING - 1 Thes 1:1-5b*

*Coin has the inscription of Caesar, What about Human Being?*

*1) The question of Paying of the taxes*

The Gospel has the discussion of paying of the census tax to Caesar

The real motif of the Pharisees was to trap Jesus with the question of taxes 

So they come up with the question *Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not?”*

*2) Coin and the inscription on the Coin*

While answering the question about paying of the taxes Jesus asks for a coin and then asks *“Whose image is this and whose inscription?"*

To this question they replied *They replied, “Caesar’s.”*

Then Jesus beautifully said *Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.”*

Since the coin was having the image and inscription of the King, it was belonging to King and Jesus says, Give to the king what belongs to the King

*3) What belongs to God?*

Going by the Logic of image and inscription on the Coin, to find out, to does it belong, we can also apply the same logic to find out what belongs to God, and to whom do we belong 

We can find out some biblical verses to find that we have the image and inscription of God, therefore we belong to God

*4) The image and Likeness of God*

The Book of Genesis tell us that we have been created in the image and likeness of God 

In other Words, we have the image and inscription of God, in our life 

So according to Jesus, give to God what belongs to God, we need to offer ourselves to God what belongs to God 

*5) Mission Sunday is the special time to repay God, what belongs to God*

Since we have the image and inscription of God, in us, everything that we have belongs to God 

We have intelligence of God

We have skills of God

We have talents of God 

We have ideas of God

We have creativity of God

We have heart to love, which is close to God

We have hands to help like Jesus 

We have eyes to see the misery of others like Jesus 

We have ears to hear the goodnews and listen the painful stories of others, as Jesus did 

So whatever we have belongs to God. So Give to God what belongs to God 

*6) God needs us, for His mission*

As we celebrate the Mission Sunday, it reminds us that God needs our cooperation for His mission Work 

In this regard we need to contribute for the spread of the Mission 

Ultimately we belong to God, therefore we need to give everything to God for His mission 

Various mission activities which are done in this context in our parishes speaks very loudly that we give to God, what belongs to God 

Apart from the monetary help, we must give our daily life activities for the spread of the Gospel 

*6) Daily activities for the spread of the Gospel*

Mission Sunday is not one day or one Sunday activity, which involves lots of money. This is the only one side of the story. This is rather easy to do it 

But to cintribute through  the daily activities of Life, is really challenging

Give to God, the daily activities of your life, which belongs to God for the spread of the Gospel

Daily activities like 

Forgiveness

Humility

Service

Sacrifice

Love

Simplicity

Generosity

Patience

Kindness

Faithfulness

All these values belong to God. Repay to God, with these values to spread his kingdom. 

*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 Acknowledging Jesus before Others

GOSPEL thoughts I can ll

*Ordinary Season : 28th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:8-12*

*First Reading : Rom 4:13, 16-18*

*The need of Acknop momwledging Jesus before Others*

as

*1) The concept of Acknowledgment*

P

Acknowledgment is the the act of showing that you have seen or noticed somebody/something

It is also a notek or a letter, that says that solmething has been received or noticed

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the Acknowledgment or the need of Acknowledging Him before the others.

*2) Acknowledging Jesus before others*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about this concept 

As a Christian one has to acknowledge Jesus before others 

Acknowledging Jesus before others means 

Speaking pool pabout Jesus 

Working for Jesus 

Accepting Him as the Saviour of the World 

Showing Jesus to others through various ways 

Making Jesus is the centre of my life 

O

*3) Best Ways of Acknowledgments

M Jesus before Others*

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External signs to show to others that I belong to Jesus. For example, having Cross around the neck, Having a Rosary, wearing Scapulars etc 

Service is another wonderful way to acknowledge Jesus before others. Christians are known by service, and service shows who Jesus is for others 

Forgiveness is another way to acknowledge Jesus before others 

Praying for enemies is the direct way to acknowledge Jesus before others 

Taking the sign of the Cross, in the public place o pm Mo

*4) Benefits of Acknowledging Jesus before others*

Whatever way we use here for acknowledging Jesus before others, will be used in heaven to acknowledge us to enter into Heaven 

Heaven will acknowledge a person, depends on whether he/she has acknowledge Jesus in His/her life or not 

Entering the heaven and participating in the heavenly glory is the greatest benefit for acknowledging Jesus here before others 

*5) There is no identity with out Jesus*

For a Christian there is no identity without Jesus 

If a person fails to acknowledge Jesus before others, the purpose of his/her life itself is misplaced 

The very purpose of a Christian is to acknowledge Jesus wherever he/she goes and whatever he/she does in her/his life 

*6) Daily life to acknowledge Jesus before others*

When I pray 

When I go to church 

When I pray Rosary 

When I serve others 

When I attend ward meetings 

When I humble myself 

When I joyfully do my work 

When I don't find fault with others 

When I am able to face life in a positive way 

When I am able to trust others 

When I able to adjust with others 

When I am able to have friendly relationship

When I am serene and peaceful 

When I am able to appreciate others 

When I become a prayerful person 

When I am simple in my way of life 

When I am able to go out of the way to help others 

When I am able to smile in difficult situations 

These are beautiful ways to acknowledge Jesus before others

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Lessons from the Sparrows

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 28th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 12:1-7*

*First Reading : Rom 4:1-8*

*Lessons from the Sparrows*

*1) Sparrows in the Bible*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the Sparrows and their protection by God 

In fact there are many references in the bible about  the sparrows. In each circumstances there is a hidden meaning in it 

*2) God’s love and care for his creation*

Overall, sparrows in the Bible represent God’s love and care for his creation

The Gospel of the day says that *Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God.*

This shows that God's watching eye on these little creatures show us God's care and concern for the entire creation

*3) Sparrows also symbolizes the aspect of Humility*

Sparrows are little creatures. But they are valued by God 

The littleness of the Sparrows also symbolizes the value of Humility

Humility has great value in the eyes of God. Likewise little sparrows also have great value in the sight of God 

*4) Sparrows Tell us that we are Valued by God*

These biblical birds remind us that even in difficult times, we can take comfort in the knowledge that we are known and valued by God, reinforcing the spiritual lessons he brings us.

There is no time that God forgets us. If God values the little sparrows how much more he will value the human beings, who are created in His own image and likeness

God cares for every person on the face of the earth no matter how much they are worth or what station in life they hold.

*5) Bible on Small Birds*

The Bible often uses small birds to symbolize people.

Tiny birds are used as a symbol of freedom, as they can fly wherever they want.

They are also used as a symbol of innocence because they do not have to work for their food.

*6) The Spiritual meaning of the Sparrows in the Bible*

The sparrow is a symbol of *unity.* When the sparrows flock together, they can protect themselves from predators. This represents how God’s people need to stick together in times of trouble and rely on Him for protection

The sparrow is a symbol of *selflessness.* It cares for its young and builds a nest for them to live in. When it finds food, it doesn’t keep it all for itself but shares it with its babies as well.

The sparrow is a symbol of *integrity*. It doesn’t tell lies or cheat on its mate. It also has a strong sense of fair play and will not take advantage of other birds to get ahead

The sparrow is a symbol of *joy and happiness*. It has a beautiful song that can cheer people up when they are feeling sad. 

The sparrow is a symbol of *productivity*. It is a hard worker that never rests and always has something to do. This can remind us to focus on being productive and not sit around doing nothing.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The power of the Key of Knowledge

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 28th Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:47-54*

*First Reading : Rom 3:21-30*

*The power of the Key of Knowledge*

*1) Knowledge is Power*

Knowledge is Power. Knowledge shared is power multiplied - Robert Boyce 

Knowledge has Power. It controls the access to opportunity and advancement - Peter Druker

Knowledge is power - Francis Bacon

These few quotes show us the power of the Knowledge

*2) Key of Knowledge*

In today's Gospel Jesus refers the Key of Knowledge 

It also shows the power of those who possessed the Knowledge. 

Having Key means, one who can control the whole things. 

Jesus gave the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, which shows the power and authority Peter 

The Key of Knowledge, symbolizes the Authority and Power 

*3) Scribes and Pharisees had the Key of Knowledge*

Scribes were the scholars of the Law. They were learned men. Pharisees also learned men

So leaning made them to have the key of the knowledge 

So these are the people who really had the key of Knowledge, which was a tremendous gift of God to them 

Their knowledge made them to gain first place in the society, power over the people and the authority to do their mission 

*4) Jesus accuses the Pharisees and Scribes*

These had the wonderful opportunity to gain the Knowledge of the scriptures

But their knowledge had a great problem. The problem is that they didn't use this key of knowledge either to grow in holiness, their own life, neither allowed or helped any one to gain this knowledge

Since they used the key of knowledge to control people, subjugate people and to exploit people, Jesus accuses them for their blunder

*5) Unused Key of Knowledge*

From the Gospel Jesus makes it very clear that the Scribes and Pharisees neither used the key of knowledge for their own good nor for the good of the People 

This is the sad point of the story. After having such a wonderful gift of the Key of knowledge, failure to use this knowledge becomes a great failure in their life  

*6) Misused Key of Knowledge*

In the World today we see misused key of Knowledge everywhere 

This is done by greedy people, power crazy people, selfish, arrogant and those who are attached to the worldly standards 

Those who are slaves to Money, power, authority and position can misuse the Key of knowledge for their selfish motives 

This is the Worldly key of Knowledge

*7) Holy Key of Knowledge*

Jesus is referring to this knowledge 

We get such a knowledge from, Scriptures, The teachings of the Church, writings of the great Holy People. 

We also get this knowledge from personal prayer, meditation in the Word of God and Prayerful reflection

Denying to share this holy knowledge with others would result in failure in our God given Mission 

What do I do with the key of Holy Knowledge? 

Do I strive to acquire the key of Holy knowledge?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Two possible reactions to the Preaching of the Gospel

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 28th Week : Wednesday*

*Feast of St Luke the Evangelist*

*Gospel : Lk 10:1–9*

*First Reading : 2 Tm 4:10-17b*

*Two possible reactions to the Preaching of the Gospel*

*1) The Mission of the Lord*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the mission of the Lord 

The Lord, sends two by two His disciples to various places where He wanted to go 

So the Disciples become the representatives Jesus, who were sent by Jesus for the Mission of the Lord 

*2) Two types of possible response*

When Jesus sends His disciples for the mission, he also warns about the possible response of the people 

Jesus says, that there will be a section of People who will receive you, welcome you, listen to you and they will support you 

But there will be also a group who will oppose your preaching, who will challenge the mission, who is disturb the mission and who will hinder you from doing your mission. 

So the disciples should be prepared for both these response so that they are able to face any situations

*3) Jesus also faced this situation*

Jesus is the Son of God, went on doing Good, to establish the Kingdom of God 

Many people accepted Him, followed him, and listened to His reaching which helped them to change their lives

But there were also a sizable population who challenged, rejected and questioned the mission of Jesus 

Finally Jesus had to die in the Cross for building the Kingdom of God, here on earth

*4) All Holy People Encountered this situation*

All those who followed the path of Jesus faced similar kind of situation in their mission 

Some accepted their teaching others rejected them 

But still they went in doing good and the mission of preaching the Gospel 

*5) The Present Day Situation*

Today the situation is not better. With all our intellectual progress, the dependency on God is decreasing

There are many people who accept Jesus and try to follow his value system 

But on the other side there is also a strong opposition for the preaching of the Gospel in the present day context

Every mission work is seen from the eyes of conversion and given a wrong message to the people 

As a result there is a lot of opposition and  challenges for preaching the Gospel

*6) My response and reaction to the mission of the Lord* 

I am also a part of the two by two group, which were sent by the Lord

So what is my experience? The positive aspects of my missionary work and the challenges of my mission

How do I face the various challenges in my missionary work? Do I give up my mission, because there are challenges and opposition? 

What is the beautiful side of my mission work for the Lovd?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Danger of having evil things inside the Cup

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 28th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:37-41*

*First Reading : Rom 1:16-25*

*The Danger of having evil things inside the Cup*

*1) The Importance of the inside of the Cup*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the Cup and the inside and outside of the Cup

From this ordinary example Jesus is giving us a powerful lesson for our daily life 

Cup is also one of the important things which we use in our day today life. So lesson from this cup will be very easy to understand and to implement in our day-to-day life 

*2) What is inside is mixed well*

This things which we put inside the cup is mixed well. For example, if the tea is found in the cup, it is mixed well and difficult to segregate it 

Here Jesus also compare the Cup to our life. Whatever inside the cup is mixed well. So whatever is found in the cup of our heart, becomes one with our life 

If good things are mixed it becomes beneficial to us. If bad or evil things are mixed then it becomes dangerous for our life 

*3) inside of the Cup can be seen by the one who handles the Cup*

Inside of the cup can be seen only by the one who uses the cup. Whereas the outside of the Cup can be seen by others 

In our life too, the inside of the cup of our life can be seen only by us. Others can see only the outside

Since the one who sees the inside of the cup can have a access to handle it, to clean it whenever it is necessary 

*4) Things inside of the Cup can be dangerous to life*

If the things inside of the cup are evil, poisonous and bad it can affect our life 

Likewise, if the  things which are inside of the cup of our life are evil and poisonous, they will be dangerous for our life 

*5) Worth of the Cup depends on what is inside*

The cup may be costing the same amount. 

But the worth of the cup depends on what is found in the cup. 

If costly things are found in the cup, automatically the worth of the cup also goes up 

The same logic is also followed when it comes to the cup of our life 

*6) Cup needs regular cleaning*

A used cup needs cleaning everyday

The cup of our life is used every day for something or the other 

Such a cup can't be kept without cleaning it. So cleaning of the Cup is a regular phenomenon of our life 

*7) Multiple use of the Cup*

A cup can be used for variety of things. That is the beauty of the cup 

Likewise the cup of our life can be used for many things. At times good things and at times for bad things 

Let us try to use this cup, for using the good things many times a day 

*8) Cup can be used to offer something to others*

Cup is also used to offer something for the other. In this case it should be clean and good 

Likewise the cup of our life can also be used for offering good things for other provided that I have some good things to offer 

*Finally How is the Cup 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*

Son of Man is the Sign for this Generation

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 28th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:29-32*

*First Reading : Rom 1:16-25*

*Son of Man is the Sign for this Generation*

*1) The issue of the Sign*

The Gospel of the day discuses about the sign which is needed to confirm the identity of Jesus 

In this context Jesus tells those who are seeking for sign, Prophet Jonah was a greatest sign for Ninevites, who changed their life at the preaching of Jonah 

Like wise the Son of Man himself is the greatest visible sign for this present Generation. No other sign  can be given to them 

*2) Jesus is the Sign for Everyone*

Jesus is the Sign of God's love for entire Humanity

In Jesus we see all signs which are necessary for salvation and for a good and holy Life 

Jesus is the Sign from Heaven, Who is the Way, Truth and life to Heaven

*3) Various Signs of Jesus*

Jesus is the Sign and Whatever Jesus does becomes a sign. Accordingly we can see these as signs of Jesus 

Jesus as the Sign of forgiveness

Jesus as the sign of humility

Jesus as the sign of God's Love 

Jesus as the Sign of compassion

Jesus as the sign of Light

Jesus as the sign of Truth 

Jesus as the sign of sacrifice

Jesus as the sign of service 

Jesus as the sign of patience

Jesus as the sign of simplicity

Jesus as the sign of Holiness

Jesus as the sign of terror to the Devil and Satan

Jesus as the sign of God's Mercy 

Jesus as the sign of Right things 

Jesus as the sign of Healing 

Jesus as the sign Conversion

Jesus as the Sign of Salvation

These are the greatest signs which were given to us through Jesus for deepening our faith and to live our life in an effective way 

*4) Do I still Search for signs?*

Even though there are so many signs from the life of Jesus do I still search for a sign in terms of miracles in my life? 

Miracles do happen in our life on day today basis. But the question is, am I able to recognize them with the eyes of faith? 

Is my faith merely depends on miracles and healing, just like that of scribes and Pharisees? 

*5) In Jesus we have every Sign*

The presence of Jesus brings everything in life 

Since Jesus is the greatest sign, expecting another sign would lead lack of faith in the person of Jesus 

Jesus is everything and Jesus is evey sign. There is no other greater other sign than Jesus himself 

Looking for other signs would result in making the sign greater than Jesus, which becomes a idolatry

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The importance of the Wedding Garment

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 28th Week :  Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 22:1-14 or 22:1-10*

*First Reading : Is 25:6-10a*

*SECOND READING Phil 4:12-14, 19-20*

*The importance of the Wedding Garment*

*1) Gospel on Wedding Garment*

The Gospel of the Day speaks about the Wedding Garment

The marriage of the King's son and the wedding banquet are the important things in the wedding celebration

So all those who participate in the Wedding banquet are suppose to wear the proper wedding garment in order to participate in the celebration

*2) A participant without the Wedding Garment*

We see in the wedding celebration, a person without the wedding Garment

He was not supposed to enter the wedding hall without the proper dress. 

Since he had entered the wedding hall without the proper dress, the king ordered him to be thrown out, from the wedding hall 

Finally he was thrown out from the wedding hall, for not wearing the wedding garment

*3) Wedding Banquet in Heaven*

All of us are invited to participate in the heavenly banquet prepared by the Lord

In order to participate in the heavenly banquet we need to have the proper, wedding garment

Unless we wear this wedding garment, we will not be able to entre and participate in the wedding garment 

*4) The Wedding Garment which needed for the heavenly Banquet*

The Garment of Holiness 

The garment of faithfulness

The garment of truthfulness

The garment of forgiveness

The garment of sacrifice

The garment of humility

The garment of love 

The garment of generosity

The garment of service 

The garment of harwork 

The garment of prayer 

The garment of trust in God

All these garments will help us to participate in the wedding banquet 

*5) What wedding garments I have in my Life?*

As a follower of Jesus, I must have the wedding garment to enter into the wedding banquet

If so,  What are the wedding garments I have in my life? 

Is my values helping me to acquire the necessary wedding garment, which will help me to participate in the wedding banquet

What can I do something more to acquire the perfect wedding garment to entre into the wedding banquet? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Blessed is the Life, Which carries Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 27th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:27-28*

*First Reading : Jl 4:12-21*

*Blessed is the Life, Which carries Jesus*

*1) Blessedness of the Womb, Which carried Jesus*

A woman from the crowd, cried saying *Blessed is the womb that carried you*

Mary's Womb became blessed because she carried Jesus in her womb 

Not only the Womb, but the entire life of our Blessed Mother became blessed, because she carried Jesus in her Womb

*2) Cross became blessed because it carried Jesus*

Before, the Cross carried Jesus, it was a sign of curse, punishment and humiliation

When the same Cross, carried Jesus, it became a sign of Salvation and Sign of Redemption

Its only because, the Cross carried Jesus in its heart, and Jesus offered his life on the Cross 

*3) The Boat of Simon became blessed because it carried Jesus*

In the Gospel of Luke, when Jesus called His first disciples, Jesus enters into the boat and He preached from the boat to those people who were around Him 

After that Jesus summoned Peter to go for a fish. To their surprise they cought  a huge amount of Fish 

The boat and the Work of the disciples became fruitful because of the presence of God 

Since the boat carried Jesus, the entire work became blessed and fruitful  

*4) The Towel of Veronica became blessed, because it carried the blood of Jesus*

The Sixth station of the Cross, we have Veronica who helped Jesus to wipe His face, 

Here we see, the image of Jesus on the towel, because the towel carried the Holy Blood of Jesus 

In a way, Veronica, and the Towel became blessed because of the blood of Jesus 

*5) Christians carry the Name of Christ*

In the Word Christian, the Word *Christ* is very much present 

Christians carry Christ  in them. Since one who carries Jesus or Christ becomes blessed, the question is, as a Christian am I blessed? Am I Holy? 

Christian can't exist without Christ. Likewise, the follower of Jesus can't become blessed without carrying Jesus in our Life 

*6) Take up the Cross and Follow me*

Jesus clearly says, if you want to follow me, take up your Cross and follow me 

Taking the Cross and following Jesus means, carrying Jesus in our life 

There are daily crosses of our life, we need to take them and follow Jesus 

So this is one of the ways to become blessed in our life 

*7) Every day we Carry Jesus in our Heart*

Through the Eucharistic celebration we receive Jesus in our life 

Through our service, sacrifice, prayer, forgiveness, humility, simplicity, we carry Jesus in our life 

The question is, is some one able to see the blessedness in our life? 

Is my life blessed? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The importance of the Fight against the Devil

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 27th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:15-26*

*First Reading : Jl 1:13-15; 2:1-2*

*The importance of the Fight against the Devil*

*1) Jesus Fight against the Devil*

The fight against the Devil is one if the important aspects of Jesus' ministry

During the Public ministry of Jesus we have many instances where Jesus is fighting against the devil inorder to deliver people from the clutches of its power 

We have a classical example where the Satan itself is trying to tempt Jesus when Jesus was fasting in the wilderness 

The Gospel of the day speaks about Jesus fight against the devil and its importance of it 

*2) Jesus' Casts out the Demon with the Finger of God*

The phrase the finger of God is found four times in the Bible, three times in the Old Testament and once in the New Testament

The finger of God is a reference to God’s unlimited power as He intervenes directly in the affairs of men. 

The working of the finger of God is very evident in our lives.  No device of man can compete with that power

No one has that power and no one can posses that power 

*3) Fight against the devil is needed to build up the Kingdom of God*

In today's Gospel there is a clear reference to the fight against devil and the Kingdom of God

Jesus Says *If it is by the finger of God that I drive out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you.*

The destruction of devil, its power and kingdom will help us to build the Kingdom of God

In the Kingdom of God there is no place for Devil 

*4) Fight against the Devil with the Help of God*

The fight against the Devil by our own power and strength is not possible 

Jesus uses the Power of God. Jesus says that with the Finger of God I derive out the demon 

So with God's power one can simply derive out the demon, one can destroy the demon and one can build the Kingdom of God 

*5) Things which Work like Finger of God in our Life*

The drive out the demon the finger of God is necessary. These are the things which will help us to in our fight against the Devil 

Bible works as the Finger of God

Cross works as the Finger of God 

Prayer works  as the finger of God

Fasting works as the Finger of God

Service works as the Finger of God 

Humility works  as the finger of God

Generosity works as the Finger of God

Love works as the Finger of God 

Forgiveness works  as the finger of God

Sincerity works as the Finger of God

Faithfulness works as the Finger of God 

Sacrifice works  as the finger of God

Rosary is the Powerful finger of God, which works against the Devil  

*6) How do I fight against the Devil?*

It is a Herculean task to fight against the devil 

One has to fight everyday to defeat the devil 

With the help of God one can easily defeat the devil 

How do I fight against it? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of Knocking the Door

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 21st Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:5-13*

*First Reading : Mal 3:13-20b*

*Importance of Knocking the Door*

*1) The Image of knocking the Door*

All of us have seen this particular image 

The context of this image could be 

When the door is locked from inside 

When we want to go inside 

When we want to hide from from something 

When we want to meet someone in the house 

When we are in dangerous situations 

These are the various situations which make us to knock the door and get inside into the safe safe place 

*2) Knocking door - A helpless situation?*

Yes, it brings before us a helpless situation 

The Gospel also presents to us the helpless situation of a person who is knocking at the door asking for some urgent help 

So knocking the door brings before us a helpless, urgent and  emergency situation

*3) Knocking Door also a reflection of our personality*

Since it is an emergency situation, how do we respond to such a situation? 

Do I try once and then give up? 

Do I accept the defeat very easily? 

The person in the Gospel was very persistent in knocking the door.

He didn't give up knocking the door until his friend opened it

Persistency is very much necessary in knocking the door 

*4) Knocking the Door - A Spiritual perspective*

In our spiritual life, the concept of knocking the door plays a very significant role 

Unless we knock the door, the door is not opened. Unless it opens we can not get in. So we need to knock the door of the following things 

Knock the Door of the Scripture

Knock the Door of the sacraments

Knock the Door of the humility

Knock the Door of the sacrifice

Knock the Door of Love 

Knock the Door of the Eucharist

Knock the Door of the Blessed Sacrament

Knock the Door of the Cross 

When the doors of these things open for us, we enter into a particular place where we experience God 

*5) Knocking the Door of our life*

Knock the door of your heart 

Knock the door of your mind 

Knock the door of your ears 

Knock the door of your eyes 

Knock the door of your tongue

Knock the door of your attitude 

Knock the door of your behavior

Knock the door of your thinking

Opening of these things to have better view of the reality around us is very much necessary

*6) How do I knock?*

Do I depend on my own strength? 

Do I give up very easily? 

Do I take help from others?

Do I feel the need of knocking? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Need of Training in Praying for its effectiveness

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 27th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:1-4*

*First Reading : Jon 4:1-11*

*Need of Training in Praying for its effectiveness*

*1) Importance of Training*

In the Modern World there is no profession without training

There is no work or skilled labour without training 

Training is the key word in today's competitive world

The effectiveness our work and mission finally depends on the training that we get 

*2) Training for Praying*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the Training in praying 

The disciples of Jesus came and asked Him, Lord teach us to pray 

The disciples realised that for a effective prayer training is necessary 

Teaching some one meaning training someone in some specified field 

Here the disciples of Jesus wanted training in praying 

*3) Have I realised the need of training in praying*

In our day today life, we speak about various types of training 

Training in dance 

Training in acting 

Training in singing 

Training in music 

Training in academic studies 

Training in sports 

Training in karate 

Training in public speaking 

Training in English 

Training in attitude 

Training in body building

Training in good presentation

Training is eating habits 

Training in etiquette

Training in ones own culture

Have I heard about training in praying or the need of training in praying?? 

*4) Swimming can be learnt by swimming*

All those who would like to learn swimming can be learnt by swimming itself 

Swimming can't be learnt by reading the books and listening to the lectures

Praying can be learnt by involving in prayer, by spending a quality time in prayer 

Only by praying, the art of praying can be learnt 

*5) Various Ways for learning the Art of Praying*

Prayerfullly reading the Holy Bible 

Spending some time in reflecting the word of God

Spending time in silent prayer 

Adoration

Eucharistic celebration

Family prayers 

Praying of the Rosary 

Spending time before the blessed sacrament 

These are the various ways which give us a special training in making a effective prayer 

*6) How is my prayer?*

First of all how much time I spend in prayer? 

How much time I really spend effectively in prayer? 

What are my challenges in making a effective prayer? 

Have I ever felt the need of training in praying? 

What can I do to make my prayer more effective?? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Welcome of Martha and Company of Mary

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 27th Week :  Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:38-42*

*First Reading : Jon 3:1-10*

*Welcome of Martha and Company of Mary*

*1) Welcome of Martha*

The Gospel of the day speaks about Jesus' visit to Mary and Martha's House 

As Jesus came to their house Martha gave a grand welcome to Jesus 

Welcome is something, which makes a person to feel happy, wanted, loved and comfortable in that particular situation

Welcome strengthens the relationship and the family bond 

Welcome is one of the important aspects of our life when some one comes into our life and to our house 

*2) Company of Mary*

From the moment Jesus entered the house, He was not left alone 

Mary the sister of Martha gave a wonderful company to Jesus 

Giving company means, being with the person, talking to him, sharing the views, listening to one another, spending time with each other 

Giving company to someone along with above mentioned things is very important and it gives meaning to our life 

*3) Busy World, Welcome and Accompaniment*

Today we are living in a world where every one is running for something or the other 

In the Modern world the word *BUSY* has become the common word for every one 

In fact it appears every one is busy with something or the other 

In this context the so called Welcome and Accompaniment has become the outdated concepts in our life 

Morden way of life does not give importance for welcome and accompaniment in our Life 

*4) Welcome and accompaniment does not bring income*

Today everything is calculated in terms of money and returns 

When we see from the monetary context  the concepts of welcome and accompaniment do not bring us any profit 

At times it appears as the waste of time exercise

That's why it is facing tough time in our life 

*5) Dangers of ignoring Welcome and Accompaniment*

When Welcome and accompaniment does not find a place in our life, life becomes meaningless and useless 

Relationship becomes weak 

Socialization becomes useless

The feeling of rejection comes in 

The feeling of loneliness comes in 

Life becomes mechanical and without any meaning 

The attitude of pride comes in 

Individualism creeps in 

These are the various dangers of ignoring welcome and accompaniment

*6) Jesus needs Welcome and Accompaniment*

Like Jesus' visit to Mary and Martha, He also visits us very often

He visits us, through His words, Through Eucharist, through the various sacraments, through service, through love, sacrifice and sharing 

The question is am I able to recognize him and welcome Him? 

Am I able to give my company to him and spend my time with him 

By praying, by service we and spend our time with Jesus

What type of Welcome and Accompaniment I show towards Jesus, who is ready to come? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Samaritan and Good Samaritan

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 27th Week :  Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:25-37*

*First Reading : Jon 1:1:2:1-2, 11*

*Samaritan and Good Samaritan*

*1) Samaritan in the Parable*

In the parable of today we have different personalitis. 

The Robbers, the traveller, the priest, the Levite and the Samaritan

All of them can be identified with their profession 

In the Whole incident, Jesus tells the Scholar what they did. But Jesus never says some one is good or bad 

*2) Good Samaritan*

In the Entire episode the Samaritan was not called Good Samaritan. He is simply called as Samaritan

The Parable tell us what the Samaritan did and how he responded to the situation 

Towards the end Jesus says *Go and do likewise* like the Samaritan

So the Entire episode got the title *Good Samaritan*

None of them were called good, except the Samaritan

He became good Samaritan by doing what was good 

*3) Christian and Good Christian*

All of us are Christians by Baptism. But that is not sufficient. 

We need to become good Christians by doing what is good 

If some one is called as *Good Christian* that itself is a great title the follower of Jesus can have 

*4) The Criterion to become Good Christian*

Have a compassionate heart, which can understand others like the good Samaritan

Take care of the Wounds of others. Not only the physical wounds but the emotional, psychological, economical wounds 

Spend some of your valuable time for the needy 

Spend some of your resources for the needy 

Have a willingness to change your plans for the sake of the needy and suffering

Go out of the way, some times to help some one who is dying and suffering

These things bring us the name *Good Christian*

*5) What are my Titles?*

Like Good Samaritan, Good Christian or Good Catholic, what are the title I have in my life 

What are the titles people call me? 

Good Actor

Good administrator

Good teacher 

Good musician

Good leader 

Good Person 

Good Mother

Good Father 

Good Friend 

Good Preacher 

Good Priest 

Good Sister

Good Player 

At least one Good Title we must have 

Above all these above titles should help us to acquire the title *Good  Christian*  *Good Catholic* or *Good fallower of Jesus*

*6) To Acquire good titles Hardwork is needed*

The Samaritan got the title *Good* after he did lots of good Work 

He sacrificed his time, resources, plans, took care of Him and did everything for him 

It was a tideous and difficult work. But he did it and become good Samaritan

The title good can't be purchased through money power. It can be acquire inky through the good works 

Good works need hardwork and sacrifice. 

Am I ready to work to acquire the title *Good Christian?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Vineyard, which yields the wild grapes

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 27th Week :  Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 21:33-43*

*First Reading : Is 5:1-7*

*SECOND READING - Phil 4:6-9*

*The Vineyard, which yields the wild grapes*

*1) The Quality of the Vineyard*

The First reading of the day speaks about the quality of the vineyard

This vineyard was in a futile land 

The landowner had prepared the land by tilling it and removing all the stones from it 

Planted a verygood quality of vine

Within it he built a watchtower for the safety

He also built a wine press

This shows the quality of that vineyard

*2) The Landowner expected good quality vine*

Since the landowner had planted  the best quality vines, he expected a good quality in return 

But the owner got, wild grapes. He got sour grapes 

In fact the vineyard failed to produce good fruit. It yeilded wild anf sour grapes 

At the the owner was very sad to see the worst situation of the vineyard

*3) Our Life is like a Vineyard*

God is the owner of our life. Our life is God's Creation. It is one of the best vineyards planted by God 

God had created this vineyard with futile land, removing all the stones from it 

He has prepared everything which is needed to produce a good fruit. 

But what is the out come in our life is a biggest question

*4) The wild grapes in our life*

God has given us this life to produce good grapes. But when our life is influenced by these things it can create only wild grapes and not good ones 

Pride

Anger 

Selfishness

Revengeful attitude 

Greed for worldly things 

Greed for money, power, authority, and for name

Life lived only for sensual pleasure 

These ultimately produces only the wild grapes

*5) The Quality Grapes in our lives*

Service to the needy 

Simplicity 

Humility

Forgiveness

Generosity

Patience

Understanding

Sacrifice

Love 

Availability

Broadmindedness

Appreciation

Fear of the Lord 

Concern for others 

Prayerful attitude

All these things help us to produce good grapes 

*6) What types of grapes are seen in my Life?*

This is a very serious question to reflect 

Since the purpose of our life depends on producing good grapes, it is important to find out about the quality of the grapes 

The production of wild grapes result in the destruction of the vineyard by the enemies

It will go into ruins

So what is the quality of the grapes 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 Greatness of the Rosary

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Feast of Our Lady of Rosary*

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week :  Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 1:26-38*

*First Reading : Acts 1:12-14*

*The Greatness of the Rosary*

*1) Rosary is a Biblical Prayer*

Rosary is not a very simple prayer. But it is a very powerful prayer, because it is based on the Bible

The Lord's prayer which we use is Taught by Jesus 

Hail Mary is a Angel Gabriel's Salutations to Mary when he brought the good news 

The Trinitarian formula we use from the St Paul's letter 

So all the prayers are found in the Bible, that is why it is called biblical prayer

*2) Rosary Reflects the Life of Jesus*

The Four mysteries which we reflect during the Rosary reflects the life of Jesus 

The Joyful mysteries - the birth and early life of Jesus 

The Luminous Mysteries speaks about the Ministry of Jesus

The Sorrowful mysteries speak about the Passion and  Death of Jesus 

The Glorious mysteries speak about the Resurrection and Ascension into Heaven

So mysteries are mainly focusing on the life of Jesus 

*3) Rosary is a community prayer*

First of all Rosary brings us together to pray 

That's why it is called community prayer, family prayer, and also group prayer 

Rosary can be prayed in the group, in the family or by an individual person 

That is the beauty of the Rosary 

*4) Best weapon against Devil and Satan*

Rosary is the most powerful weapon to which the devil is frightened

Where ever there is Rosary, Satan can not work. Rosary is a hindrance for the devil 

We need to use the Rosary to defeat the Devil.

*5) Rosary is the School of Mary*

It is said that in the Rosary we sit in the School of Mary and learn about Jesus 

Mary is the Teacher who teaches about Jesus in the Rosary School of Mary 

One who prays Rosary devoutly, can experience Jesus in his/her life 

*6) Rosary is like a Oxygen of the Church's life*

We know the importance of the Oxygen. Without that we can't survive 

Rosary is like oxygen which keeps us alive to enter into the life of Jesus, to have the divine experience

With out Rosary our life becomes dry and there is no life in it 

So Rosary is very important

How effective Rosary is in my life? 

How often I pray Rosary in my life? 

Have I realised the power of the Rosary 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 Danger of unwilling to repent

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week :  Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:13-16*

*First Reading : Bar 1:15-22*

*The Danger of unwilling to repent*

*1) Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida!*

The Gospel of the day begins with these words 

Woe means a feeling of great pain or sadness

Woe is also a phrase that is used to warn somebody that there will be trouble for them if they do something or do not do something.

So on the one side Jesus is very sad about Chorazin and Bethsaida and on the other side Jesus warns them about the great trouble that they are going to face 

So first of all unwillingness to repent ultimately makes Jesus very sad and sorrowful

*2) Less Tolerance in Judgement*

Jesus also highlights the danger of unwillingness to repent in terms of tolerance 

*It will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you.*

No one can escape the judgement of the Lord. On the judgement day  the Lord's tolerance will depend on ones willingness or unwillingness to repent 

If the tolerance is less in judgement one can expect a severe judgement from the Lord 

*3) One gets the status of Netherworlds*

Netherworld, "place beneath the earth," comes from nether, "down or below."

 It is the world of the dead. It also known as Hades, Hell, Scheol, infernal region, underworld.

Unwilling to repent finally leads a person to the netherworlds and there one is condemned for suffering

*4) Mighty Works becomes useless*

This view is very clear from the words of Jesus

When one shows unwillingness to repent ones own life  then whatever mighty works performed, they become useless 

So unwillingness to repents blocks the grace of God, and we feel unable to experience of the mighty works of the Lord

*5) Very bad picture about the cities*

Three cities are mentioned today's Gospel

Chorazin,  Bethsaida and Capernaum

All these three cities are mentioned in the context of their hardness of the heart 

These names also in the context gives us a very negative impression about the cities 

Even today the negative impression is always present in these cities 

*6)  Am I ready to Repent?*

The Unwillingness to to repent makes Jesus very sad and painful, it blocks the way to the mighty works of the Lord, and cuts a very bad impression about our attitude 

So the question is am I ready to repent from my old ways to new ways which consists the values of Jesus. 

What are the blocks for my genuine repentance??

*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 the Peaceful state of our life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week :  Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:1-12*

*First Reading : Neh 8:1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12*

*The need of the Peaceful state of our life*

*1) If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the life of a peaceful person 

In the context of Sending His disciples for the mission Jesus speaks about the peaceful state of our life 

Only those who have the peaceful state of thier life, can receive the peace which is coming from various divine sources. If not one can't receive anything from God

*2) The State of boiling Water*

When we see the boiling water we can't see our image at any cost 

Since the water is boiling or the water is in turmoil, no images can be see in it 

Thats why it is said, nothing can be seen in the boiling water 

*3) Cool and Serene Water*

When we see the cool or serene water one can clearly see ones own image 

Cool, Clean or serene water reflects our own image like a mirror 

So one can see ones own beautiful image in it  

*4) Life is not a boiling Water but like Serene Water*

Our mind/life should have the quality of serene water and not the boiling water 

Serene water represents the peaceful state of ones life, which very necessary to receive the great divine treasures in our life 

Ones the peaceful state of our mind is disturbed, one can't do any work neither can receive any good things 

*5) Various things which spoil the peaceful State of our life*

There are many things which disturb our peaceful state of our mind 

Anger 

Revenge

Pride

Arrogance

Self-righteousness 

Selfishness

Attachment to the worldly things 

Attachment to the bodily pleasures 

Excess Desire for material things 

All these things disturb our peaceful state of life 

*6) Need of the peaceful State of life*

All those things which bring peace to our life, can be received only by a person who desires to have these things 

To receive these things at least one needs certain amount of peaceful atmosphere in ones life 

Peaceful atmosphere is needed to listen to others, to understand whatever we listen and to put into practice what we have heard 

Good values can't be bought by the worldly possessions. They can be experienced only through practicing

Am I a person with peaceful state of mind? 

What are the things which disturb my peace of mind? 

How can I strengthen the peaceful atmosphere 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*

One who puts a hand to the plow and Looks Back

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week :  Wednesday*

*Gospel : Luke 9:57-62*

*First Reading : Nehemiah 2:1-8*

*One who puts a hand to the plow and Looks Back*

*1) The meaning of the above statement*

Putting your hands on the plow is a proverbial expression that signifies undertaking a new business.

In this case, putting our hands on the plow means that we have decided that we are going to commit our lives to God. 

With the Baptism we have put our hands into the plow of Jesus or to the plow of new life or faith life 

*2) Danger of Looking Back*

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.

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.

*3) Plowing is the Hard Work*

Plowing is not a easy work. It is hard work. The plowman should have lot of patience in this work 

The field is not ready with one plowing. It needs series of plowing every day 

Only after plowing many times the Field is ready for the cultivation

There is not short cut for plowing. Plowing has to follow the normal course of action

*4) plowing is the important and first work*

As we know the harvest work begins with plowing. 

Plowing is the first stage in the harvest work 

If the plowing becomes fruitful then the land becomes fruitful and we are able to reap a good harvest 

So one needs to concentrate on the plowing work. It needs closer attention

*5) Putting hands into the plow*

It is a life time commitment for the Lord to enter into a divine relationship with Jesus 

It is a life time commitment to the family life, in the context of the sacrament of matrimony to live a family life with love and fidelity

It is a life time commitment by a religious to serve in the vineyard of the Lord, to proclaim the Goodnews of the Lord

So there is no looking back in this context 

*6) The various plows of Jesus*

The plow of sacrifice

The plow of love 

The plow of forgiveness

The plow of truth 

The plow of sharing 

The plow of humility

The plow of faithfulness

The plow of the Cross

The plow of generosity

The plow of simplicity

The plow of prayer 

So there is no choice to look back. Look forward and plow the field with the help of these plows 

Am I ready for this mission? 

Am I looking forward or looking back?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Never to Wish bad for any one

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week :  Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:51-56*

*First Reading : Zec 8:20-23*

*Never to Wish bad for any one*

*1) Jews and Samaritans*

During the time of Jesus there was hostile relationship between Jews and Samaritans

Jews considered themselves as, pure, holy, chosen by God, eligible for salvation. Whereas Jews considered Samaritans, as impure, sinners, punished by God and not eligible for salvation

Because of this there was lots of problems between them 

*2) Jesus wanted to remain with the Samaritan*

As a Messiah, Jesus also had place for Samaritans

He wanted to go and dine with them. So he sent some of his followers and do some preparatory works in the area of Samaritans

To which Samaritans objected and they would not cooperate with the plan 

At this His disciples were hurt and they were angry 

That's why they wanted to take revenge on them 

*3) The attitude of Revenge*

Since the Samaritans didn't cooperate with the plan they were deeply hurt 

So the disciples wanted to destroy them. So they asked Jesus *Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”*

It is the disciples wanted to destroy the Samaritans for not cooperating with them 

The attitude of revenge is very clearly reflected here 

*4) Jesus' Response*

Jesus' response was quite different. He never thought of taking revenge on those who didn't cooperate or objected his plans 

Instead of this, Jesus rebuked his own disciples, for having expressed such a revengeful attitude 

In other words Jesus didn't approve the attitude of revenge and asked his disciples to change such an attitude 

*5) The inability  of the Disciples*

Even though the disciples had the attitude of revenge, they were unable to execute the plan 

Bringing fire from heaven to destroy some one can be done only by the Almighty, who has full authority. In no way the disciples have the ability to do such a task which belongs only to God 

*6) It is difficult to take revenge*

Taking revenge is not very easy. Its very difficult and it in turn destroys the one who executes the plan 

To take revenge, one has to develop a hostile relationship with the other 

The hostile relationship spoils the relationship, causes the health issues, and destroys the peace of mind 

At the end one gets nothing by taking revenge but rather loses everything 

So taking revenge is not easy and does not have any benefit

*7) Good things are always benefitted*

Every good gesture has its own reward 

Good things in no way harm us. They always bring some blessing and contentment

Finally every good deed is blessed by God. So by doing good we only gain and never lose anything

*8) Never to wish Bad to any one*

From today's Gospel it is very clear that no one should bad things to anyone 

Even if one is enemy, always wish good things and not bad things 

Even though it is very challenging, we are called upon to do the same

Am I able to wish good things to those who do harm to me?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

My angel will go before you : Protection of the Guardian Angel

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 18:1-5, 10*

*First Reading : Ex 23:20-23*

*My angel will go before you : Protection of the Guardian Angel*

*1) The Feast of the Guardian Angel*

Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Guardian Angel

Angels are divine creatures who are at the service of God 

The Church not only believes in the existence of the Angels, but also believes that God has appointed a angel for every person to protect and guide 

So what is the Work of Guardian Angel? 

 

*2) The Mission of the Guardian Angel*

The Guardian angel walks before us to show the way 

The guardian angel guards us from all evil forces and from harmful things 

The guardian angel leads our journey towards the right destination, which is prepared by God

The Guardian angel brings good news from God and communicates to us 

The Guardian angel always encourages us to choose good and avoid evil   

*3) What must our response to the Guardian Angel*

We need to be attentive to all the things which the Guardian angel is doing for us 

We need to listen to the guardian angel carefully, so we understand all the things which is communicated to us 

Not to rebel against the Guardian Angel, because going against the guardian angel would destroy our life 

To experience the forgiveness of sins we need to oblige to the guardian angel about all things which he communicates to us 

*4) The fight of the Guardian angel*

The guardian angel has the authority from God. God says *My authority resides in him*

So when we listen to his voice, God will fight against our enemies and fight to destroy all the evil forces 

So only listening to guardian angel and trying to live his message in our life will change our entire life 

*5) How do I deal with my Guardian Angel?*

Do I hear his voice in my day today life?

How do I respond to the voice of the Guardian Angel? 

Guardian angel always protects us. Let us enjoy his protection

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Beauty of the Change of Mind

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 26th Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mt 21:28-32*

*First Reading : Ez 18:25-28*

*The Beauty of the Change of Mind*

*1) Change of Mind*

The Gospel of the Day speaks about the Change of mind twice 

In the first level, it speaks in the positive way 

In the second level it speaks in the negative way. In other words the failure to change one mind for better things 

*2) The First Son*

The change of mind comes in the context of making a negative decision by the First Son 

When His father asked him to go and work, he replied in a negative way saying that, *I will not go*

But later He changes his mind, and goes for work 

This change of mind brings some good and great things in the life of the elder son 

*3) The Second Son*

Father comes and tell the same thing to the second Son 

The Son  with a positive note says *I will go* but he didn't go 

The Gospel here is silent about the Change of mind 

Whether the second Son later changed his mind and didn't go for work or whether the second son had already made up his mind not to go for work, but to please Father, he says yes, is not clear 

But any way the Concept of change of mind refers in the context always for better and good things and not for bad things 

*4) Unwillingness to change the mind even after seeing the good effects*

Towards the end, the Gospel makes a powerful point with regard to the change of mind 

Even after seeing the great and good effects of the change of mind, if one still refuses to change ones mind would be a biggest tragedy in life 

Refusal to change mind, even after knowing its good effects can cause serious problem in life 

Such a disaster would destroy our enitre life 

*5) Change of Mind*

Change of mind is a great punch for our life 

It can change our life 

It can change our destiny

It can change the direction of our life 

It can change our attitude

It can change our relationship

It can change our bad habits 

It can change our entire out look 

If so, am I ready to change my mind? 

What are the areas which needs this change of Mind?!

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

God needs a place to dwell: am I ready to find a place for Him?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week :  Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:43b-45*

*First Reading : Zec 2:5-9, 14-15a*

*God needs a place to dwell: am I ready to find a place for Him?*

*1) See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the LORD*

These are the beautiful words which are found in today's first reading 

It is God's willingness and readiness to dwell among us. So the question is am I ready for this offer?  

*2) Lord needs a place*

When God comes to dwell among us, He needs a place. 

The question is where is the place or which is the place I  am going offer him? 

Is it my own life? Is it my own house? 

*3) God needs a company*

It is not enough to arrange the place. God needs a loving company to share His divine experiences with us 

So am I ready to spend time with Him? Will I be busy with my own work? How will I give company to my Lord? 

*4) The measurement of Jerusalem*

The reading also speaks about the measurement of Jerusalem in the context of Lords coming to dwell among us 

The width and length is measured to calculate its greatness

Our life is like a Jerusalem, Our heart is like a Jerusalem, where God wants to dwell 

So when God's angel comes to measure our hearts width and length, what would be its greatness? 

Will the greatness of my heart consists in purity, humility, love, service, sacrifice, sincerity, truthfulness, etc 

What would be the results of the measurement? 

*5) The various ways through which the Lord comes into our life to dwell*

The Lord comes into our life, through His words, through the Scriptures

The Lord comes to our life through  the Eucharist

The Lord comes to our life through the prayer 

The Lord comes to our life through peaceful relationship

The Lord comes to our life through forgiveness

The Lord comes to our life through our family

The Lord comes to our life through generosity

So am I ready to use these way to facilitate the ways of the coming of the Lord, into my life?  

*6) My Reactions*

As the Lord tells us today, about His coming to dwell in my life, what is my first reaction? 

Am I ready to welcome Him? 

In what way His dwelling in my life will affect me? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Descending and Ascending of the Angels

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 25th Week :  Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 1:47–51*

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

*Feast of the Arch Angels*

*The Descending and Ascending of the Angels*

*1) The dream of Jacob*

We have a reference for the ascending and descending of the angels in the Old Testament

The Classical example is the Dream of Jacob

On his journey to Laban’s house, Jacob spends the night at a certain place.

He has a dream in which he sees angels who are ascending and descending on a ladder or staircase between earth and heaven.

Then, in his dream, the Lord speaks to him and makes great promises to him.

When Jacob awakes, he concludes that the Lord is in this place and he names the place Bethel, which means “house of God” (Gen 28:17, 19). 

It is an incredible picture how close and interconnected heaven and earth really are. These realms are not separated by distance, but are dimensions that overlap together.

*2) Nathanael : Ascending and Descending of the Angels*

Then in the Gospel of John, Jesus encounters Nathanael for the first time.

Then Jesus says  *“you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”*

Here Jesus is making a clear statement that through Him (Jesus), heaven is opened. And the angels of God will ascend and descend on Him. 

This is pointing back to the story of Jacob. The ladder is a connector between heaven and earth. Jesus is essentially saying that He is Jacob’s ladder. 

It is Jesus, the connection between heaven and earth, that angels will ascend and descend upon. 

*3) Jesus is the Ladder*

In both the above incidents, Jesus makes it very clear that there is a ladder which connects the heaven and the Earth 

Jesus is this Ladder which connects the heaven and Earth. Through this ladder the Angels ascend and descend

So it is through Jesus one can ascend into heaven and descend into the World 

Jesus is the powerful ladder 

*4) Cross the Special ladder of Jesus*

Usually the Ladder have two ends; Up and Down 

But the Ladder which was created by Jesus - The Cross - has four Sides 

These four sides connect God and Human Beings, One  Human being with another Human being 

But the significance of this Ladder consists in connecting heaven and earth, Human life with eternal life 

*5) We are called upon to ascend through the Ladder*

Like angels we are invited to ascend through the Ladder to heaven

Jesus says I am the Way. Jesus is the way, Jesus is the Ladder. No one goes to the Father, except through this ladder 

Let us use this ladder to climb high to the eternal life

*6) Am I ready to ascend through the Ladder?*

The ladder is ready. The angles always guide us in showing the ladder and climbing the ladder

If so, am I ready to climb the Ladder? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*