The need to recognize Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  3rd Week : New Liturgical Year : Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 1:6-8, 19-28*

*First Reading : Is 61:1-2a, 10-11*

*SECOND READING 1 Thes 5:16-24*

*

*The need to recognize Jesus*

*1) John The Baptist on Recognizing Jesus*

In the Gospel of the day John Speaks about recognising Jesus 

In fact the Whole episode speaks about the greatness of John and His mission 

Since He came before Jesus to prepare the way of the Lord, He gives his real identity with great humility 

In this context He also warns all those who are around that they need to recognize Jesus who is among them 

*2) Scribes and Pharisees didn't recognize Jesus*

The signs of the Messiah were very clear. But these people didn't recognize the Messiah

They were busy in their own pride and self righteousness. That why they were not able to recognize Jesus  

They missed a great opportunity to meet the Messiah by not recognizing Jesus

*3) The need of Listening*

The Gospel of the day also highlights the importance of listening 

All those who listened to John were able to recognize Jesus. All  those who didn't pay attention to John could not recognize Jesus 

Today the Gospels speak to us. Unless we listen to the Gospel we may not be able to know Jesus and recognize Jesus 

*4) Advent - Jesus is coming*

We are in the season of Advent. It is a time to prepare for the Lord's coming 

Jesus is about to come. The time is at hand. So it is my responsibility to prepare myself to meet Jesus by Recognizing him 

Unless we recognize we may not be able to meet Him 

*5) Recognizing is the First step in encountering Jesus*

All of us want to have a deep encounter with the Lord

In this process, recognizing Jesus becomes the first step in meeting Jesus 

Unless we recognize or know who Jesus is we many not be able to meet Jesus

*6) Am I able to recognize Jesus*

The time is very close. Jesus is about to come. 

But the question is am I able to recognize Jesus!?

What are my spiritual skills to recognize Jesus? 

The Spiritual skills which are required to recognize Jesus would be following

Prayer

Fasting 

Penance

Humility 

Simplicity 

Openness 

Sacrifice 

Generosity 

Forgiveness

All these are required to recognize Jesus who is among us

*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 Elijah

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  2nd Week : New Liturgical Year : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 17:9a, 10-13*

*First Reading : Sir 48:1-4, 9-11*

*The Greatness of Elijah*

*1) Wondrous and Marvelous things about Elijah*

He appears like fire. Fire is very powerful and one of the signs of the Holy Spirit

His Words are like, Fire. It means they are very powerful and can burn the evil things in man and bring about a conversion

  

With the Lord’s word he shut up the heavens. Something only very special about Elijah. No other prophet could do that 

Three times he brought down fire. This speaks about the capacity of Elijah. In other words how powerfully God was working through Elijah

The Bible says *Whose glory is equal to yours?* So his glory is something very special and marvellous

Elijah didn't die. As a human being He was an exception to the death. Bible says *You were taken aloft in a whirlwind of fire, in a chariot with fiery horses*

Among the prophets he was only the one who was destined, in time to come back to the World 

He was the one who was destined to come before the Lord to prepare the Way of the Lord and to put and end to the kingdom of Satan 

His mission was *Too turn back the hearts of fathers toward their sons, and to re-establish the tribes of Jacob*

All those who have seen Elijah were blessed and they will establish a divine friendly relationship with Him

*2) Something Great about Elijah*

All the things which are spoken about Elijah, in the above section, shows the power and importance of Elijah

We hardly find, such fantastic things about a prophet in the Bible. But about it something about one can deeply reflect on it

Elijah is a great role model, who appeared in John the Baptist

*3) Elijah and John the Baptist*

Only one who went up without death and returned in the Person of John the Baptist 

Same person played a duel role. Something spectacular 

Came back to prepare the way of the Lord 

In both the characteristics, the moral integrity of the person remained at the high level 

*4) How do I see Elijah - John the Baptist?*

A great person who prepared the way of the Lord?

A person who challenges my inner most life, because of the duplicity?

A person ideal for Truth, Justice, simplicity, uprightness, and Moral integrity? 

A person who always inspires me? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Criticism is common for any form of Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  2nd Week : New Liturgical Year : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 11:16-19*

*First Reading : Is 48:17-19*

*Criticism is common for any form of Life*

*1) The Style of John's Life*

John's life was very strict, with rigours disciple

He was strict with Himself and Aldo with others 

Prayer, fasting, penance and simplicity was the trade mark of John's life 

It is a form of Holy life, which helped John to live a morally upright life 

No one could find any fault with his integrity of life 

Yet people criticised John's life. They said *He is possessed by a demon.’*

*2) The Style of Jesus' life*

Jesus was more social and mingled with people especially with poor and sinners

He visited their houses, ate with them, spent time with them and he taught them about the Kingdom of God 

Jesus was loved by many and because of His approvh he became very popular figure among the people 

Yet some people criticised even Jesus. They said *Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’*

*3) One can't please everyone*

This the important fact of our life 

We need to realise this truth of our life. 

Whatever may be our life, however holy we are, or whatever may be  level of our integrity, still we can't please every one 

There will be people who will always oppose our views and the form of our life 

Criticism is the part of our life. One can't escape from it  

*4) How do we respond to the criticism?*

Some people are easily affected by the criticism of others, because they expect 100% cooperation and appreciation from other 

At the practical level 100% result in this areas not possible 

Therefore we need to develop a positive attitude towards the criticism which may help us to see the reality of the matter and if need be some modifications in our approach 

Having negative approach towards the criticism will make our life more difficult and miserable

*5) My Attitude towards Criticism*

How do I respond to the criticism? 

Do I take it in a positive way Or not? 

Constructive criticism is always good for the Growth 

If I am unable to receive criticism, it becomes a block for my growth 

*6) My stand should be clear*

John the Baptist's stand was clear. So he didn't bother about the criticism

Jesus was very clear about his stand. So he too didn't bother about the criticism

When we are clear about the  stand, we know what we are doing. Such firm resolve also necessary to face the criticism in a positive way 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Kingdom of heaven suffers violence

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  2nd Week : New Liturgical Year : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 11:11-15*

*First Reading : Is 41:13-20*

*The Kingdom of heaven suffers violence*

*1) Violence During the Early Church*

The Gospel of the day says that *From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of heaven suffers violence*

This is very true in the early Church. For the first 300 years Church severely suffered violence and many people gave  their life for Christ 

The Beginning of the kingdom of God, suffered heavy violence, in order to suppress it. But nothing could stop God's work 

*2) Violence through the Centuries*

The Kingdom of God has suffered violence through the centuries 

For over 2000 years, the Kingdom of God had to face many trials and tribulations from many curel rulers and Kings 

In a way the history of the Church was very painful because of the Violence against the Church 

*3) Present Day violence*

Presently, it is the Church which suffers a most among all religion, for the sake of Christ 

All over the World, the persecution against the Church, against the mission of the Church and against the Kingdom of God is on rise 

The New Rules and Regulations are at times aimed at targeting the mission of Christ and the missionaries 

So it is very clear that the Kingdom of God suffers violence even today 

*4) Kingdom of God means the Following*

Forgiveness in the name of Jesus

Service in the name of Jesus

Loving enemies in the Name of Jesus 

Humility in the name of Jesus

Justice in the name of Jesus 

Sacrifice in the name of Jesus 

Generosity in the name of Jesus 

Practice of all the Kingdom values 

When someone obstructs these values and persecutes persons who are working for these values, the Kingdom of God, suffers violence

*5) Does Kingdom of God, suffers violence because of me?*

There are many instances where the Kingdom of God suffers violence because of my failures in the Following areas 

When I fail to forgive

When I fail to love

When I fail to serve 

When I fail to sacrifice

When I fail to practice humility

When I fail in generosity

When I fail in helping the needy 

When I fail to share 

When I become arrogant, proud, selfish and revengeful person  

*6) My responsibility*

I must see that the kingdom of God should not suffer violence because of me. This is the first responsibility 

Secondly, I must try to convince others as far as possible not to get involved in the violence against the Kingdom of God 

Thirdly I need to promote the kingdom Values every where in whatever way possible

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Come to me : A meaningful Invitation by the Lord

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  2nd Week : New Liturgical Year : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 11:28-30*

*First Reading : Is 40:25-31*

*Come to me : A meaningful Invitation by the Lord*

*1) Advent - Waiting for the Lord*

We are in the season of Advent. Advent is a time to prepare ourselves to receive the Lord 

The Lord is about to come. He is coming among us, to remain with us and to live among us 

So it is a beautiful and meaningful moment to all of us to receive Jesus 

*2) Come to me : A invitation of the Lord*

As we are waiting for the Lord, it is Jesus who is calling each and every one of us 

*Come to me*. Its a beautiful invitation of the Lord  to all of us, to go to Jesus 

As we are waiting for the Lord, a invitation from the same to experience His divine presence is really great and wonderful

*3) Why Jesus is calling us*

Jesus is calling us, so that we can go to him and be in his presence 

He is calling us to help us 

He is calling us to guide us 

He is calling us to show the Kingdom of God 

He is calling us to save us 

He is calling us to share his divine power 

He is calling us to show the right path 

He is calling us to learn from the master

He is calling us to reveal the divine revelation

He is calling us to show the power of God's mercy 

He is calling us to show the way to heaven 

*4) Result of Going to Jesus*

When we respond to the call of Jesus *Come to me* lots of good things happen in our life 

We remain in the presence of Jesus 

We get an opportunity to learn from Jesus 

We experience the divine power of Jesus

We are blessed by Jesus 

We get the right direction to our life 

We become enlightened people 

We learn to love and forgive one another 

We learn how to serve 

We learn how to pray 

We learn how to live a good life 

We are strengthened to fight against devil and sin   

*5) Who is calling me today?*

This is a very important question

Even though Jesus is calling us, many are not able to hear his voice and give a positive response

This may be due to the influence of other calls which disturbes the call from Jesus 

The call from worldly things 

The call for money

The call for power 

The call for position

The call for bodily pleasures 

The call from our own ego 

The call from our own pride 

The call from my own arrogance

*6) Am I able to hear the Call of Jesus?*

Jesus is calling us everyday though Eucharist, through prayers, through spiritual exercises and various other things 

But the question is am I able to hear? 

If not, I need to train myself to hear the call of thr invitation of Jesus 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Which is More important? 100 or 99 or 1

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  2nd Week : New Liturgical Year : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 18:12-14*

*First Reading : Is 40:1-11*

*Which is More important? 100 or 99 or 1*

*1) The Parable of the Lost Sheep*

This parable gives us diffent numbers 

There is a reference for 100, there is a reference for 99 

There is also reference for 1 

Now the simple question is which is more important 100 or 99 or 1?

*2) The Number 100*

The Gospel gives us this number in the context of the total number of the sheep the person had 

So all these 100 sheeps were belonging to the owner and all of them were dear to the owner 

All 100 were very important and the owner didn't want to lose any one of them. So 100 has a special significance in today's Gospel as well as for the owner 

*3) The Number 99*

The Gospel also mentions this particular number 

These 99 sometimes seen in a negative sense, because it appears as self righteous sheep who needed no master's search 

But in fact these 99 didn't lose the way. They were on the right path. 

That's why the owner leaves them in a safe place and goes for his work 

It is not that he is abandoning the 99 for the sake of 1

*4) The Number 1*

The Gospel passage as it narrates, catches our attention on this 1 number

The passage also highlights the importance of this 1 sheep and thus the 1 sheep gets more importance

It does not mean other 99 are less important, but this 1 needed more importance. So the owner is giving more importance to the 1 who had lost its way 

*5) Weak needs special importance*

This is the logic of Jesus 

The world gives more importance to the powerful and those who are influential

But the logic of God is quite different. The strong needs no support because they themselves are able to sustain them 

The weak needs support because they can't sustain themselves 

So 1 needs more care, concern and importance than the 99 

*6) Whom do I give more attention and importance?*

This is a very important and genuine question of our life

Ultimately who do I support and help? 

Is it the powerful one, expecting something in return? 

Is it the lost, least, and unrecognized by the society, I give importance with the aim of uplifting them in one way or  the other?

What is my Choice? 99 or 1

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Need of Seeing incredible things in and Around us

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  2nd Week : New Liturgical Year : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 5:17-26*

*First Reading : Is 35:1-10*

*Need of Seeing incredible things in and Around us*

*1) People saw incredible things*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the incredible things which were witnessed by the people 

Some people brought a paralytic man to Jesus and Jesus healed him 

When this miracle was witnessed by the people the spontaneous response of the people was *We have seen incredible things  today.”*

*2) People Saw incredible things around them*

The Gospel says that the people saw incredible things around them when Jesus healed the paralytic

This must have been influenced them and affected them in a positive way 

Seeing incredible things around us always creates a happy and good feeling which can change our life 

At least some in the group who saw the incredible things must have got attracted towards Jesus anf His teaching 

*3) Seeing Incredible things Today*

It is very important to see the incredible things today. *Today* represents the present moment of our life 

It is not enough to see the incredible things in the past and hoping for the future to see the incredible things, but it is very important to see the incredible things today or at the present moment 

The moment we think about our own life, we can see numerous incredible things at every moment 

*4) Incredible things in my life*

Seeing incredible things within my own life will totally change my life 

That our senses are working perfectly itself is the incredible thing in our life 

If one of the senses which does not work, one can imagine the difficulty in functioning our own life 

Our brain is a incredible thing

Eyes are incredible things

Blood is a incredible thing 

Heart is a incredible thing

Reasoning is a incredible thing

Internal organs are incredible things 

The moment we see these as incredible things we realise the worth of it  

*5) Our God is a incredible person*

Our God does unbelievable things in our life 

Nothing is impossible to God. Everything is possible 

Seeing incredible things and the God who does the incredible things in our life will change our whole perspective towards God, towards life and towards others 

Am I able to see the incredible things in my life, everyday?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of the Baptism of Repentance

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  2nd Week : New Liturgical Year : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 1:1-8*

*First Reading : Is 40:1-5, 9-11*

*SECOND READING - 2 Pt 3:8-14*

*Importance of the Baptism of Repentance*

*1) Baptism of Water*

All of us are very familiar with the baptism of Water 

We are all baptised with the Water. Water was poured on our head, while baptising as a sign of cleansing from all sin 

So water was instrumental in wishing and cleansing us from the dirt of Sin. We are made clean with the Waters of baptism 

*2) Baptism of Repentance*

Here repentance can be placed in the place of Water 

Water gives life, water purifies us, water makes us active and water quenches our thirst

Likewise, the repentance gives us new life, repentance purifies us, repentance makes us active and new and repentance quenches our thirst for God 

*3) Washing in the Waters of Repentance*

Repentance is a holy thing, which can completely change ones life 

When we are washed with the waters of repentance, we are completely washed from the dirty things of sins, anf weaknesses 

Blessed are the one who gets the opportunity to baptise oneself in the waters of Repentance

*4) Repentance is the First thing in the Preaching*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the preaching of John the Baptist. The core message of his preaching is the repentance

When Jesus began, His preaching, he also started with the theme of repentance 

He gave a call to people to repent from their sins, because the kingdom of God is at hand 

So the theme of Repentance becomes a very important one in the whole of preaching of Jesus  

*5) Importance of the Baptism of Repentance*

It gives us an opportunity for a new life 

It washes all our sins and makes us clean 

It changes our life from any situation and makes us spiritually very rich and bright 

It makes us to realise the greatness of God and our creatureliness

It is the sign of new beginning towards a great goal 

The result of repentance is always positive and enriching  

*6) My Life and Baptism of Repentance*

How does I look this? What is the significance of it to my life? 

Baptism of repentance should start from my life. I can't wait for some one to begin for me 

Others can't breath for me. Likewise others can't repent for me 

Repentance is personal, self realising and moving toward always a positive Goal

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

A Heart with Pity can make a big difference

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  1st Week : New Liturgical Year : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:35–10:1, 5a, 6-8*

*First Reading : Is 30:19-21, 23-26*

*A Heart with Pity can make a big difference*

*1) A Heart Filled with Pity*

We see in today's Gospel, the Heart of Jesus was filled with Pity 

When Jesus saw the Crowd, *his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned*

This particular gesture speaks a lot about Jesus and His personality 

*2) A response of the Heart with Pity*

The heart of Jesus which was filled with pity, has a beautiful response towards the people

First of all, he felt the need of a leader to take care of the people, to guide and protect them 

Secondly, he Himself took care of the people in all the possible ways providing them whatever they needed 

Thirdly He also summoned His disciples to take care the people, by giving them authority and power 

This is the beautiful reaction of the heart which had pity on people 

*3) A heart with Pity but without any Actions is useless*

We see in the life of Jesus, not only a heart with full of pity for suffering people,but also the appropriate actions which helped people in one way or the another 

If there weren't any actions, such pitiful heart is useless, because it can do nothing in any circumstances 

A heart with pity, but charged with doing some practical action is more important than the pitiful heart 

*4) A person with Heart*

This is the common expression which we use in our day to day life 

When someone is called as the person of Heart, it is the biggest credit a person can get 

A person with good heart means, one who carries with him bundle of good values, which are seen at the practical level in his life 

A person with heart is the best title one can achieve I his life 

*5) How do my heart responds?*

This is the very important question to ponder over 

Heart can make a big difference in our life

A good heart, a generous heart, a heart with pity, s heart with genuine love can definitely, make difference in our life and also in others life

How do people see my heart and my personality? 

A generous person with geveroy heart 

A proud person, with arrogant heart 

A simple person, loving heart 

So what type of heart I have? How it responds concretely in a particular situation?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Conception of Jesus in Mary's Womb and Reception of Jesus in our Heart

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  1st Week : New Liturgical Year : Friday*

*Solemnity of Immaculate Conception of Mary*

*Gospel : Lk 1:26-38*

*First Reading : Gn 3:9-15, 20*

*SECOND READING - Eph 1:3-6, 11-12*

*Conception of Jesus in Mary's Womb and Reception of Jesus in our Heart*

*1) Mary Conceived Jesus in her Womb*

Today as we celebrate the feast of the solemnity of the immaculate conception of Mary, the Gospel of the day speaks about the Good News of Jesus' Birth 

The Angel Gabriel brought the Good News to Mary and She accepted the Good News to become the Mother of God 

According to the Good News Mary Conceived Jesus in her Womb and she became the Mother of God 

*2) December Month is to receive Jesus*

In this month we celebrate the nativity of Jesus and thus we receive Jesus among us 

Mary our Mother is the First person to receive Jesus and we follow our mother in receiving Jesus into our life 

Let the events of Immaculate conception and the Nativity of the Lord, help us to receive Jesus in our hearts 

*3) Receiving Jesus into our Hearts*

As Angel Gabriel, came to Mary, bringing the Good News, the same angel also comes to us in different forms, with Good News 

As Mary conceived Jesus in her Womb, we need to receive Jesus into our hearts  

After Mary conceived Jesus into her Womb, she became the first tabernacle of the World 

Today we need to convert our hearts into tabernacles as a dwelling place to Jesus 

*4) Things required to Receive Jesus*

Mary was full of Grace. We need the grace of God to receive Jesus in our hearts 

God Found favour in Mary. By our simplicity and sincerity, God may find favour in us. Only then we can receive Jesus in our hearts 

The Humility of Mary was instrumental. Likewise, humility will help us to receive Jesus in our hearts 

Doing the will of God. Complete surrender, to the will of God will help us in receiving Jesus in our hearts

*5) The ultimate Goal of our Life*

Receiving Jesus in our hearts and Jesus coming into our hearts is the ultimate goal of our life 

This goal needs a continuous efforts and disciplined way of life 

Purity of Life will help us in achieving the ultimate goal in our life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Life is like a House: Who do I build?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  1st Week : New Liturgical Year : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 7:21, 24-27*

*First Reading : Is 26:1-6*

*Life is like a House: Who do I build?*

*1) Two Houses built on two different places*

The Gospel of the day gives us the account of the two houses built on two different places 

One house was built on rock, which was considered to be very strong. Such a house was able to face rain and floods and it remained intact. 

The builder of this house was also called as wise man

The other house was built on the sand, which was not so strong. As a result it collapsed when the rain and floods hit the house. 

The builder of this house was called, foolish man 

*2) Life is like Building a house*

Building a house takes a long time. Above all one has to concentrate on various things while building the house 

A good and accurate planning will help in building a good house 

Life is like a building a house. It takes long time. It demands lots of things, which need of be given utmost attention in order to make it strong and beautiful

*3) Life/House built on Rock*

Rock is strong surface which helps for the strong foundation for the House 

When we say life is a building it needs a strong foundation like rock. 

So we consider Jesus as the Rock. A house built on Jesus the rock will lasts forever 

*4) House built on Jesus the Rock*

Building the house of our life on Jesus the Rock means the following 

Building our life on the teachings of Jesus 

Building our life on forgiveness

Building our life on sacrifice

Building our life on service

Building our life on humility

Building our life on love 

Building our life in justice

Building our life on truthfulness

Building our life on simplicity 

Building our life on Cross 

In other Words building our life on the Gospel Values 

*5) Life/ House built on the Sand*

A house built on the sand, was not able to face the rain and flood. Finally it got collapsed and great was the loss of it 

Life built on the Sand, will face the same fate as that of the house built on the sand 

Examples of life/house built on the sand following

House of our life built on hatred 

House of our life built on anger 

House of our life built on gossip

House of our life built on worldly things 

House of our life built on bodily pleasures 

House of our life built on money, power, position and authority

House of our life built on worldly standards

House of our life built on pride 

House of our life built on laziness 

Such a life and house can't stand forever. It gets collapsed within no time 

*6) What is the Foundation of the house of my Life?*

Serious question to reflect and to answer 

What is the foundation of my life? 

Is it Jesus and His teachings? 

Is it Gospel values? 

Is it built on Worldly standards? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Those who are with Jesus will never go empty handed

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  1st Week : New Liturgical Year : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 15:29-37*

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

*Those who are with Jesus will never go empty handed*

*1) People with Jesus for three days*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the people who were with Jesus 

In the Gospel Jesus says *for they have been with me now for three days*

So for three days people were with Jesus. It is quite long time that people spent their time with Jesus 

*2) They didn't go with empty handed*

The Gospel also tells us that Jesus didn't send them empty handed. But he provided them with plenty, which can be analysed at different  levels 

*First* of all they were enlightened by the Word of God by Jesus 

For three days Jesus must have spoken so many things about the Kingdom of God and its riches and the need in our life 

*Secondly* people also received lots of favours in terms of healing and consolation 

Jesus must have healed many people, consoled others and helped many more according to the need 

*Thirdly* They received the bodily food from Jesus. It was like a miracle which Jesus worked to feed the entire crowd 

So this is also another important favour which people  received from Jesus

*3) Only Rich Man went empty Handed*

In the entire Gospel we see the Young man who came to Jesus asking for a favour went back without anything 

He was not ready to follow the advice of Jesus. So he could not receive the favour which Jesus gave him. 

It is not Jesus who didn't give the favour, but it was the inability of the young man to receive the favour which Jesus gave 

*4) Various ways of Staying with Jesus*

There are multiple ways through which we can remain with Jesus 

Prayer 

Service 

Sacrifice 

Charity 

Forgiveness 

Reflecting the word of God

Celebration of the sacraments care for the poor 

Feeding the hungry 

Helping the needy 

Protecting the weak 

Living a upright life 

These are the various ways to stay with Jesus 

*5) What we receive from Jesus*

We receive a divine friendship from Jesus

We receive love and protection 

We receive consolation

We receive peace of mind 

We receive God's mercy 

We receive forgiveness

We receive spiritual strength

We receive God's healing touch

We receive moral  courage 

We receive guidance 

We receive everything we need to live a holy life 

*6) God is never tired of Giving*

Giving or Sharing is God's another name 

It is God's nature to give everything which we need in our life 

There is no dearth of anything in God. God is always full and shares in abundance

God is never tired of giving. Am I tired of asking? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Holy Spirit the Real Source of Rejoicement

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  1st Week : New Liturgical Year : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 10:21-24*

*First Reading : Is 11:1-10*

*Holy Spirit the Real Source of Rejoicement*

*1) Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the, source of Jesus' Rejoicement 

It clearly says that 

*Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit* This shows that the source of Jesus' Rejoicement 

Now what is the significance of Jesus rejoicing in the Holy Spirit?

*2) Our Source of Rejoicement*

All of us like to rejoice in one way or the other 

Everything we do in our life, is aimed at giving us some joy and moments rejoicing with our beloved ones

Much of our Rejoicement depends on the  worldly things 

Many people consider the real source of Rejoicement is the worldly things 

*3) Worldly things or Rejoicement*

In this category there are many things which are involved 

Money 

Power

Authority 

Sensual pleasure 

Gold, silver and other ornaments

Position 

Food and drinks 

Drugs and alcohol 

Name and fame 

Beauty 

Talents and skils

All these contribute to rejoicing. That's why it is considered that worldly things are source of Rejoicement

*4) The Spiritual things and rejoicing*

The source of Jesus' Rejoicement is the Spiritual things 

The Spiritual things with the power of the Holy Spirit,  are the real source of Rejoicement

This is very well proved in the life of Jesus 

*5) Spiritual things which give us the ever lasting Rejoicement*

The joy which is provided by the above mentioned worldly things remain only for certain time 

But the joy which is the result of spiritual things lasts forever 

The joy from Forgiveness 

The joy from humility 

The joy from service 

The joy form love  

The joy from simplicity

The joy from sacrifice

The joy from appreciation

The joy form generosity

The joy from smile

The joy from prayer 

The joy from admitting our weakness

The joy from truthfulness

The Joy we get from these things result in everlasting joy 

 

*6) What are my Source of Rejoicement?*

As a human being all of crave for joy 

If so, what is the source of my Rejoicement? 

Is it Spiritual things or Worldly things? 

The joy we get from spiritual things lasts for ever. Whereas the joy which we get from worldly things make us happy only for few moments 

Let our source of Joy be Jesus and Holy spirit

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Type of Labourers needed for God's Kingdom

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  1st Week : New Liturgical Year : Monday*

*Feast of St Francis Xavier*

*Gospel : Luke 10:1-16*

*First Reading : Jeremiah 1:4-9*

*Second Reading : 2 Cor 4:7-15*

*The Type of Labourers needed for God's Kingdom*

*1) Need of the Labourers*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the need of the labourers, to work in the Kingdom of God 

Jesus speaks about the labourers, in the context of building the Kingdom of God, here on this earth 

So it is an opportunity for us to reflect about the type of labourers, who are needed for Jesus' mission

*2) Repentance*

Repentance was the first word which was spoken by Jesus. Repentance is the main door to enter in the kingdom of God and to build it 

So first of all labour consists in making practical the concept of repentance in our life and around us 

So labourers are needed for repentance 

*3) Forgiveness*

Labourers are needed to work for the concept of forgiveness to become very practical and effective 

Forgiveness is another important theme of the kingdom of God. 

Since there are very few people who work for forgiveness, more labourers are needed in this line 

*4) Service*

Labourers are in high demand for the service to the humanity 

Service consists in feeding hungry, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, comforting the sorrow, visiting the sick and other service to the needy

So labourers are needed for the service 

*5) Humility*

Labourers are needed to show the power of humility to the entire world. There are hardly very few labourers who can work for humility 

The need of labourers in this area is the need of the hour 

*6) Labourers in other areas*

In the area of justice

In the area of witnessing Jesus 

In the area of generosity

In the area of sincerity

In the are of true relationship

In the are of genuine friendship

In the area of supporting the good works 

All these areas need thousands of labourers to continue the mission of the Lord 

*7) Am I ready to become the labourer for Jesus?*

The above mentioned areas are not reserved for any category of people 

All fit into any category. That is the beauty of Jesus' work 

If so am I ready to become a genuine and faithful labourer for Jesus?  

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

New Liturgical Year Starts with the Warning of Alertness and Watchfulness

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season :  1st Week : New Liturgical Year : 1st Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 13:33-37*

*First Reading : Is 63:16b-17, 19b; 64:2-7*

*SECOND READING - 1 Cor 1:3-9*

*New Liturgical Year Starts with the Warning of Alertness and Watchfulness*

*1) New Liturgical Year*

We have variety of New years starting from different dates 

The calendar  year starts with January to December

The financial year Starts with April to May 

The educational year starts with June to May 

Different religions have different dates about the beginning of the years and concluding the years 

Like wise the New Liturgical year starts with Advent and Ends with the feast of Christ the King 

*2) New Year always begins with various resolutions*

Every new year makes us to reflect about something new and something creative 

The resolutions we take in the beginning of the year also have a tremendous impact on our life, which at times change our life 

New year always makes us to think about new things for the betterment of our life 

*3) New Liturgical Year with New things* 

The new liturgical year calls us to reflect about the following new things. They are as follows 

*A)/Alertness* Which shows how active and creative we are. Alertness is the another form of full involvement in whatever we do 

*B) Watchfulness*

Watchfulness once again draws our attention to the full involvement in whatever we do 

Watchfulness is the hallmark of Christian Spirituality 

*C) Patient waiting*

Waiting for the Master, who has sent us into the world 

Patient waiting also is very much highlighted, in the beginning of the Liturgical year 

*4) Alertness and Watchfulness*

These are the two words which revolve around in today's Gospel. At the same time as we begin this new liturgical year, it highlights about the importance of Alertness and Watchfulness

We need to be alert about the Master's Coming 

We must be alert about what is happening in our life

Alert about forgiveness

Alert about humility

Alert about pride 

Alert about worldly pleasure

Alert about arrogance

Alert about simplicity 

Alert about generosity

Alert about our own weakness

Be watchful about Satan 

Be watchful about sin 

Be watchful about evil habits in our life 

Be watchful about relationship with God, others, neighbors, and with oneself 

*5) Difficult of being alert and Watchful*

These two things are not very easy to practice

One needs continuous efforts in practicing the above things 

It is not one time work. But continuous and everyday process

*6) Alertness and Watchfulness in my Life*

How alert I am about spiritual things? 

How alert I am about various good good and bad things in life? 

How watchful I am about sin, Satan and evil things? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Preparation for the important events of our life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 34th Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 21:34-36*

*First Reading : Dn 7:15-27*

*Preparation for the important events of our life*

*1) Important events of our Life*

The birth, Baptism, confirmation, marriage, Religious profession, Ordination to the priesthood, and various jubilees are some of the important events of our life 

Each of these events are taken seriously and we prepare well in advance to face such a day with joy and happiness 

Some of the events of our life also include many years of preparation. 

This shows the importance of prepare 

*2) That day catch you by surprise like a trap*

The Gospel of the day speaks about *that day* which appears to be little worrying 

So which is *that day*?  What is the significance of it? How to understand *that day*

*3) Various understanding of That Day*

That day would mean the following 

The day of final judgement

The day of our final day on the earth - The day of death 

The day of Encountering the Lord 

The Day of facing the Lord face to face

The day of entering into heaven 

The day of the evaluation of our life 

The day of taking decision about our life

Such a day would come like a trap, in an unexpected way and in an unnoticed way 

*4) Important day of Our life*

From the Gospel and from our daily experience it is very clear that, the day of final judgement is very important moment of our life 

It is the day which decides the reward or punishment of our life 

It is the day, which changes the destiny of our life, either for good or for bad 

No one can escape facing this day in ones life 

All have to undergo this day by all means 

*5) The need of preparation*

For the irdin events of our life we prepare a lot. If that is the case, what must be our preparation for the day of judgement? 

Jesus warns was about the drowsiness of the Heart, which happens because of the drunkenness, anxieties of life and carousing 

The above things in life don't allow us to prepare well for the day of judgement 

So we need to be very careful about it at all times 

*6) How is my preparation?*

Unless we prepare ourselves, we are totally lost in the battle of life 

There is not short cut in this preparation 

The lack of preparation, and laziness in preparing for the final day would costs us a lot. We may miss our final destiny as well 

So how often I think of the final judgment? 

How far have I prepared myself for the final judgement?

What can I do to prepare myself for *that day?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Signs of the Kingdom of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 34th Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Lk 21:29-33*

*First Reading : Dn 7:2-14*

*Signs of the Kingdom of God*

*1) Signs in the Nature*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the various signs or the changes that take place in the nature

Jesus also speaks about the changes that take place in the Fig tree and other trees, which is about to produce new buds and new life 

Immediately we are able to the changes in the tree, changes in the surrounding, and changes in the Nature as well 

So we are able to see and judge the changes in the nature as well as in various trees 

*2) Changes in Human Life*

As we witness various changes in the nature and their effect, there are also various changes in the human life which we experience 

From the moment of our birth till our death, every day, numerous things happen in our life 

Each thing that happen in our life also carries  a powerful message and change in our life as well 

So we need to give lots of importance to these things 

*3) Changes in life and the Kingdom of God*

The Gospel of the day speaks boldly about the various things which happen in our life and the experience of the Kingdom of God 

So what are the things or signs which help us to experience the kingdom of God in our life? 

*4) Various things which help us to realise that the Kingdom of God has entered in our life*

When one experiences the spirit of Forgiveness Let him/her know that the Kingdom of God in ones life 

When one cultivates a thankful heart 

When one realises the importance of humility

When one practices the vitue of generosity

When one values the importance of sacrifice, service, love, sharing 

When one lives a prayerful life 

When one knows the importance of disciplined way if life 

When one is able to face any challenges for Jesus' mission 

When these things happen in our life, know for sure that the kingdom of God is at hand or in ones life 

*5) Life is very Strange*

Our life is unique and mysterious 

Many things happen in our life and each of them reach a lesson as well as give us new experience 

No life passes through without realising the need of divine assistance and His blessings 

So it is up to us to practice various Gospel values to experience God 

No generation can pass without this experience 

*6) My Life*

What are the various things which make me to experience the Kingdom of God in my life? 

Jesus says,  *Kingdom of God is among You* Am I able to find out and experience it? 

What are the hurdles which I face to experience the Kingdom of God? 

How can I over come from these hurdles? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Importance of Leaving the net in order to follow Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 34th Week :Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 4:18-22*

*First Reading : Rom 10:9-18*

*Importance of Leaving the net in order to follow Jesus*

*1) Jesus' call to the first disciples and their immediate reaction*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the call of first disciples 

Jesus called Peter and Andrew, and John and John 

The Gospel tells us that the first disciples of Jesus simply left their nets and followed Jesus  

*2) Significance of Leaving the Net*

*A) Net is like a trap*

Net is a trap which is used to catch fish. Once the fish is inside the net, it can't escape 

Net as a trap can also be dangerous to our own life. If we are cought in the net, we can't come out of it 

*B) Net was their important possession*

Among many things, net was one if the important things which was used for their daily work 

Leaving the net means, one is giving up one of the important instruments of daily work 

When disciples are ready to sacrifice the net means, it shows the readiness to give up the worldly things 

*C) Untying net is difficult*

Usually the net is difficult to untie. If one tries, he can't succeed 

The only way to get rid if the net is to abundan the net. 

That is what the disciples did. They left it and followed Jesus 

*D) Net does not allow easily to escape the things*

Once caught in the net, one can't escape 

Net does not give easy access to escape

*E) Net is fatal*

Anything live caught in the net ultimately ends up in death 

Death is the final destiny of the net. So need to be careful 

*3) Various nets in our life*

There are various nets, which we have to leave in order to follow Jesus 

The net of jealousy

The net of arrogance

The net of hatred 

The net of gossip

The net of pride

The net of indifference

The net of revenge

The net of self ego 

The net of selfishness

The net of anger 

The net of excessive desire for things  

*4) Am I ready leave my net?* 

This is a very challenging question to all of us 

To leave the net of our own comfortable zone and to follow Jesus is very challenging 

To leave the above mentioned nets is really challenging

Even then am I ready to leave my net?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Great Words of Hope amidst the Fear

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 34th Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 21:12-19*

*First Reading : Dn 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28*

*The Great Words of Hope amidst the Fear*

*1) Scary things in today's Gospel*

The Gospel of the day lists out many scary things

They will seize and persecute you

They will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons

They will have you led before kings and governors

Parents, brothers, sisters, and relatives will betray you 

They will put you to death 

You will be hated by all 

These are the really scary things which are found in today's Gospel

*2) Positive things which are found in today's Gospel*

It is an opportunity to bear witness to Jesus

No need of preparing any kind of defense. Because God himself is our great defender

God himself will give us special type of wisdom to face any kinds of situation

The adversaries will be powerless 

Not a hair on your head will be destroyed.

By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

*3) Both Things are inseparable*

The Gospel of the day, presents to us these both elements are inseparable

They can't be seen as two independent realities, existing opposing to each other 

In fact one depends on another 

The negative things become like a foundation for the positive things 

So both have their own significance and role to play in our life 

*4) My attitude towards the Negative things*

How do I see the various scary things mentioned in today's Gospel? 

What is my attitude towards these things? 

Am I scared to face all these things? 

Do I lose my hope and question God, when these things happen in my life

*5) Need to see the positive things*

In spite of having lots of good things, the scary things found in the Gospel draw our attention towards these negative things and blind our vision to see the great in life  

When we look the positive aspects, our attitude also changes and we are able to face life in a positive way 

Have I noticed the Good things in today's Gospel?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 34th Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 21:5-11*

*First Reading : Dn 2:31-45*

*See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name*

*1) Many things which come in our life*

As we grow many things we acquire. In other words many things come in our life 

The following are the external things which come into our life 

As we grow money comes into our life 

Power comes into our life 

Authority comes into our life 

Position comes into our life 

Work comes into our life 

Education comes into our life 

There are also other internal things which come into our life 

The beauty 

The physical power 

The desires of the flesh 

Bodily emotions

Anger 

Pride

Arrogance 

Selfishness 

And many other evils things  

*2) See that you are not to be deceived*

The above mentioned things slowly enter into our life 

At times they also come into our life by using the name of Jesus

So we need to be very careful not to be carried away by these things 

Once the person is deceived by these things, he/she can never come up in life  

*3) Do not Follow them*

This is the warning which is found in today's Gospel

Jesus strongly tells us not to follow them at any cost 

Since the outer world is so attractive, it simply deceives a person to follow the worldly possessions and Glory 

So one should be very careful about the worldly possessions

*4)  Follow the Conscience*

One of the important things we should remember is our own conscience 

Since, the conscience cannot deceive the person, one  can relay on once own conscience 

Conscience makes us to realise what we are and where we are in our spiritual journey 

*5) Am I deceived in my Life?* 

All of us are deceived in our life in one way or the other 

What are those things which deceive me in my daily life? 

My beauty 

My bodily passions

My anger 

My pride 

My selfishness 

My  self-centerednes 

My arrogance

My desire 

These things at times deceive us and enter into our life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Poor Widow : Unrecognized by others, but recognized by Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 34th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 21:1-4*

*First Reading : Dn 1:1-6, 8-20*

*Poor Widow : Unrecognized by others, but recognized by Jesus*

*1) Unnoticed Widow*

The Temple of Jerusalem was a busy place with many activities and with thousands of people

Unless one is very prominent person, no one would be recognized by the others. Because all are busy in their own world 

In this context we can imagine the place of a widow in the temple area, who had no significance from any angle. 

This window was not recognised by anyone 

*2) Widow recognised by Jesus*

A widow who was not recognised by anyone, recognized by Jesus 

Jesus not only recognized the Widow but He proclaimed the greatness of the Widow

A great quality of generosity,  which was hidden in widow was made known to the others by Jesus 

Jesus always recognizes the person for what he/she has in his/her life, and not for outside appearance

*3) Jesus' ministry to the periphery*

The entire ministry of Jesus was concentrated on those people who are at the periphery. 

Here periphery means, those who are least, sinners,  condensed, lepers, sick, unwanted, poor, marginalized and so on 

They were suffering class of people in the society 

So left went after the lost ones, sinners, and lepers to bring them back and to give them their dignity

*4) Recognise those who are unnoticed*

It is very important for us as a followers of Jesus to recognise those who are unrecognized by others 

The world today recognises those, who live their lives according to the Worldly standards 

One who tries to live with the Gospel values either targeted or ignored 

In such situations we need to recognize the achievements of those who are unnoticed by others 

*5) Proclaim to others, the great deeds of poor people*

Poor have no one who can speak on their behalf 

In fact poor people do lots of good works which no one recognizes 

So proclaiming the good deeds of the poorest of the poor is the greatest deed which we can do for the Love of God, and the Love of others 

*6) Need a special Eye to recognize such events*

In fact with Jesus there were His disciples and many other people around the temple treasury. 

But none of them so the great gesture of the widow, except Jesus 

So to recognize such a noble gesture, that too in a simple lady needs a great deal of humility and openness of the Mind 

Only Jesus had such a humility and openness of the mind to recognize such a deed

In other words one needs special inner eyesight, to recognize such noble deeds and bring them to light. Such a gesture will help many people to recognise that great things in the least ones 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why the Kingdom of Jesus still continues?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 34th Week :Sunday*

*Christ the King Feast*

*Gospel : Mt 25:31-46*

*First Reading : Ez 34:11-12, 15-17*

*SECOND READING -1 Cor 15:20-26, 28*

*Why the Kingdom of Jesus still continues?*

*1) King and Kingdoms of the World*

In the History there have been great kings with great kingdoms 

The Babylonian kingdom

The Assyrian kingdom 

The Roman Kingdom 

The Great King Alexander

The great King Ashoka 

And many others 

All these were very powerful and they were known figures for their achievements 

But none of these kings or kingdom survive today. They are remembered only as Historical figures  

*2) Jesus as King and His Kingdom*

Jesus never appeared like a king 

He never had a palace or royal throne

He never waged any wars against anyone 

He never had a army for his mission 

He never ruled as earthly kings 

During His life time no one recognised him as King 

Still Today Jesus is adored and recognised as great King in the Human History 

*3) Jesus' Kingdom*

The Kingdom of Jesus is spread all through the World 

Today in every part of the World the Kingdom of Jesus is present 

It is still growing everyday, which can't be stopped by anyone 

The Kingdom of Jesus is not a Historical Event, but it is a ever present and growing kingdom at all the time of History

It is a kingdom, which has no end and no one can put an end to it 

*4) The Eternal nature of Jesus' Kingdom*

Jesus as King and His Kingdom has no end because of the following things 

The Kingdom of Jesus built on the Following principles 

The principle of Service 

The principle of humility

The principle of sacrifice

The principle of Love

The principle of forgiveness

The principle of Generosity

The principle of truthfulness

The principle of care and concern

The principle of hard work 

The principle of faith in God

Since these eternal and Gospel values have no end, the Kingdom built by Jesus has no end 

*5) The Participants of Jesus' Kingdom*

The Gospel of the day gives us the list of the participants of His Kingdom 

People those who help others 

People who are concerned about  the needy 

People who are hungry 

People who are thirsty 

People who are strangers 

People who are naked, uncared, unloved, prisoners, and neglected 

All these are participants of the Kingdom of Jesus

Since these people exists in the human history as long as human beings exists,  His kingdom has no end 

*6) My Role in Jesus' Kingdom*

Jesus is the King and We are His followers

So every follower has the responsibility of protecting His kingdom

The moment I practice the Kingdom values, His kingdom simply grows  and becomes powerful

As a genuine follower of Jesus, I have a serious responsibility to continue His kingdom for ever and ever and to become the part of His Kingdom

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*