The cost of the blindness of the Rich man

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Second Week: Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 16:19-31*

*First Reading : Jer 17:5-10*

*The cost of the blindness of the Rich man*

*1) The position of the Rich Man*

According to the Gospel the rich man had lots of wealth 

*Rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen and dined sumptuously each day.*

So he was in good position as regards to his wealth

*2) The mistake of the Rich man*

The Rich man didn't ill treat the poor Lazarus

He even allowed Lazarus to collect the scraps which fell from his table 

Even then the rich man was condemned because of his indifference towards Lazarus 

He forgot that Lazarus was also a human being, he too needed some good food to sustain himself 

The Rich man failed to see the human dignity in poor Lazarus

*3) Rich man became blind to the reality*

The rich man was not able to see the misery of Lazarus 

When dog came and licked his sores, he didn't even bother about it 

In a way the richness made him blind to the misery of Lazarus 

The richness of the man made his view very narrow, which saw only the comforts about his life and self indulgence

His blindness was cruel, he didn't see anything in Lazarus

*4) The cost of the blindness of the Rich man*

The Riches of this world can accompany a person only in this world 

It will accompany in the next world, provided one makes the right use of the riches 

The rich man failed to make use of the riches in the right spirit. Thats why became poor in the next world 

The cost of blindness of the rich man was so severe, within no time he became not only poor but he became begger 

The rich man was begging with Abraham and Lazarus, for some favour, which was not possible to do 

*5) The use of the Riches or Wealth*

Wealth or Riches can be used as long as we live in this world 

Once we are out from this world, in no way the wealth of this world can be used 

But the effect of the use of this wealth surely will decide our destiny

The rich man used the wealth only for the self and for pleasurable things. Others were not existing for him 

Effect is, in the next world no one exist for him. 

Neither the wealth, nor the persons could help the rich man in any way 

The Rich man died as a poor begger. He had nothing which could help him in the next life 

*6) My life?*

Have I been, blind to the current realities, because of my pride, arrogance, over confidence, fear of failure, riches, wealth and other things? 

Is my riches, knowledge, skills, power and position, making me blind?? 

Is my riches controlling me or I am controlling the wealth?/

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Service as antidote to Power

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Second Week: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 20:17-28*

*First Reading : Jer 18:18-20*

*Service as antidote to Power*

*1) Two things are Highlighted*

The Gospel of the day presents to us two important things 

The disciples of Jesus are immersed in the power struggle 

On the other hand Jesus is highlighting the imp of service and servant leadership 

So power and service are the two important things which are highlighted in today's Gospel

*2) The power struggle concept of the Disciples*

Particularly the mother of the sons of Zebedee, making a request with Jesus for the powerful positions for her sons

James and John are the two sons of Zebedee, who wanted to have powerful positions. They influence Jesus through their mother 

This attitude of these two, also created some kind of uneasiness with other 10, since they too wanted to have powerful position in the kingdom of Jesus  

*3) The Service Model of Jesus*

As to the power struggle concept of the disciples, Jesus presents to them a diffent kind and quite opposite model, that is, Service Model 

This service model has the following aspects in it 

*Drinking of Chalice* It means, one is ready to face trails and tribulations, ready to make sacrifices, evrn ready to sacrifice ones life 

*Unity* Service model always goes with Unity. That's why Jesus says, 

*But it shall not be so among you.* Division is dangerous for service model 

*servant and Slave attitude* In the service model, the attitude of Servant and slave is very important. Such an attitude makes a person to remain humble and to offer oneself completely for the mission of service 

*4) Service as antidote for Power Struggle*

From today's Gospel it is very clear that, Jesus' service model is a very powerful antidote for power struggle concept

In fact Jesus completely followed the servant and service model, which really challenged the power struggle attitude of the disciples 

Jesus clearly showed that the kingdom of God can be established only with service model and not with the power struggle model

Power struggle model destroys everything, where as service model builds everything 

*5) Need a strong will power*

Basically human nature is dominated by the power struggle attitude 

That's why we see this problem even among the disciples of Jesus 

To counter act such an attitude we need a strong will power for servant leadership and service model 

People like, Mother Theresa, Fr Stan Swamy, Sr Rani Maria, Nelson Mandela have done it, with their strong convictions for servant leadership and service model 

*6) What is my attitude?* 

Power and Service are the two important things which we see through out the Bible 

Wars have taken place between these 

Destruction and slavery have taken place because of this 

One can't easily run away from these concepts 

Either one will become slave of power or Hero of service 

It all depends on us. 

Am I caught up in the atmosphere of  power struggle? 

As a disciple of Jesus am I convinced of the servant model and service model? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various faces of Hypocrisy

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Second Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 23:1-12*

*First Reading : Is 1:10, 16-20*

*Various faces of Hypocrisy*

*1) Jesus calls Scribes and Pharisees as Hypocrites*

The Gospel of Matthew chapter 23 speaks about the Hypocrisy of the Scribes and Pharisees 

*Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness.* Mt 23:27

*2) Various faces of Hypocrisy*

The Gospel of the day speaks about various faces of Hypocrisy

*A) Duplicity*

Duplicity consists in saying one thing and practicing different 

Failure to practice what one preaches is nothing but hypocrisy 

Jesus says *For they preach but they do not practice*

*B) External Show*

There is nothing good from inside. 

*All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels.*

*C) Enjoying life at the cost of others pain*

Jesus says *They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them*

This is how one exploits the other for the power, and for pleasures of life 

*D) Self exaltation*

Projecting one as important, good, and holy. But in reality, life may be quite opposite

Greetings in market place, salutations, addressing them as Rabbi shows how they exault themselves. This is the another form of hypocrisy 

*E) Lack of Humility*

This once again amounts to pride and arrogance

Pride and arrogance nothing but the another face of hypocrisy 

*3) Service as antidote to Hypocrisy*

Jesus shows what can defeat the hypocrisy 

Jesus shows humility and sincere service coupled with true love can defeat the hypocrisy 

Becoming servant to practice the values of Jesus and to build the Kingdom of God, will really defeat the hypocrisy to become genuine disciples of Jesus 

*4) How about my Life?*

Am I affected with hypocrisy? 

How does hypocrisy works in my life? 

Have I realised some of my attitudes which depicts the aspect of hypocrisy? 

How can I overcome from the shadows of Hypocrisy? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Speciality of God's Mercifulness

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Second Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 6:36-38*

*First Reading : Dn 9:4b-10*

*Speciality of God's Mercifulness*

*1) Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful*

The Gospel of the day starts with this thought 

This thought clearly tells us that we need to follow the model of God, when it comes to showing mercy to others 

Now the question is, How do we understand the this merciful God? Or, in what, God's mercy is reflected? 

The Gospel of the day gives us few things which shows the speciality of God's mercifulness 

*2) No Judgment - One of the ways of mercifulness*

“Stop judging and you will not be judged.

Judgement belongs God alone 

Since we are not able to see the entire truth in a comprehensive way, we can't judge. 

God knows everything. Therefore he can judge. Yet God is slow in judging others. This shows the Mercifulness of God 

Without knowing full fact we are quick to judge others. This shows our cruelty

By not judging others, we become like heavenly Father who is ever merciful

*3) No condemnation - Best way to show mercy*

Jesus condemned sin and not the sinner. Jesus is always merciful to sinners 

God never condemns the human beings. But He condemns the evil things 

When some one condemns another person, the opportunity for changing ones life is denied. Such an attitude totally goes against the merciful nature of God 

Therefore, allowing the person to change ones wrong doing, amounts in showing mercy to the others 

Helping a person to change his/her life is showing mercy to others 

*4) Forgiveness : Broad way to God's mercifulness*

Forgiveness is the another name for God's mercy 

Forgiveness is the another name of Merciful God

God shows is abundant mercy to others by forgiving their sins 

When we forgive others we become like merciful Father

*5) Generosity - Another Character of God's mercifulness*

*Give and gifts will be given to you*

Generosity is the another name of Merciful God 

God is generous in forgiving, loving, listening, blessing, protecting, saving, and guiding us 

By being generous towards our fellow beings in above ways we become like heavenly Father who is merciful 

*6) Same amount in Return*

One thing becomes very clear. The above mentioned things work in our life depends on our attitude 

How we use these things for others, God uses in the same manner towards us. 

If we are forgiving, non judgemental, and don't condemn others, God also will use the same standard for us 

If we are merciful towards others, God will be merciful towards us. If not, we can't expect a different treatment from God 

Choice is ours 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Story of Two Mountains

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season : Second Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:2-10*

*First Reading : Gn 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18*

*Second Reading : Rom 8:31b-34*

*The Story of Two Mountains*

*1) Salvation begins and Culminates in Mountain*

We have a beautiful story of Noah, and the flood 

There was a flood for 150 days and Noah and His family was saved through an Ark.

Finally the Ark of Noah, rested on the mountain Ararat and people came out of the ark 

So this mountain has a significance, in saving the people. In other words, the saving work of God starts from the mount Ararat

The Work of Salvation culminates on the Mount Calvary where Jesus offered himself for saving the entire human kind  

*2) The Mountains of Moriah and Tabor*

The Gospel of the day makes a mention of Two mountains 

The mountain of Moriah and the Mount Tabor 

On mount Moriah, Abraham was asked to go along with his Son. Here God asked him to sacrifice His Son 

Mount Tabor is the another mountain, where Jesus was transfigured infront of His disciples. 

Both the mountains communicate and powerful message 

*3) The mountain of Test and Mountain of Answer*

The mountain Moriah becomes a place of testing the faith of Abraham. He was asked by God, to go to this particular mountain and to sacrifice His Son 

The Mount Tabor becomes a place where Jesus gives an answer for the questions of faith

One who is faithful to the Lord, will be glirifed or transformed to experience the glory of God

*4) The Sacrifice of Isaac and Jesus*

The mount Moriah has a reference of the sacrifice of Isaac 

In mount Tabor Jesus reveals the great plan of His sacrifice for the salvation of all and to restore our faithfulness to the Lord 

*5) Altar with wood and Altar with Cross*

In Mount Moriah we find a altar which was built with the pieces of Wood. This altar was built by Abraham and Isaac 

In mount Tabor Jesus reveals and altar which was built with two pieces of wood, by the world, for the sacrifice of His life 

*6) The presence of Angel and the presence of Moses and Elijah*

In the Mount Moriah there appears a messenger or the Angel of the Lord, to reveal the plan of God to Abraham 

In the Mount Tabor, the appearance of  Moses and Elijah for discussion and  revealing the future course of action 

*7) The sacrifice of an animal and the Sacrifice of Lamb*

In the mount Moriah we see an animal is sacrificed, in the place of Isaac. Which was accepted by God

In the mount Tabor, Jesus reveals the need of scarifying the Lamb, who is Jesus for the salvation of all  

*8) The Union of Heaven and Earth*

In both these mountains we see the union of Heaven and earth, Divine and Human, holiness and sinfulness 

Mountain becomes a place of meeting, union, experience and transformation for the human being 

*9) The Church as Holy Mountain*

For all the faithful the Church, the Temple of the Lord, is the Mountain where we experience this divine union 

The saving work of the human beings start from this place, through the sacrament of Baptism and it culminates in the same mountain through various sacrament and other spiritual activities. 

We end our earthly life on this mountain

So mountain plays a very important role 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*

The meaning of Perfection

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :First Week: Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:43-48*

*First Reading : Dt 26:16-19*

*The meaning of Perfection*

*1) The question of Perfection*

The concept of perfection is found in today's Gospel 

*Be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.*

God is perfect. But are we able to become perfect like God? 

What is the concept of perfection for our context? 

Few things are highlighted in today's Gospel as regards to the concept of perfection

*2) Loving ones enemy is a means of Perfection*

Loving ones enemy means going beyond our normal inclination 

Jesus is the one who loved and forgave His enemies from the Cross

The moment we forgive and love our enemies we pass into the realm of perfection

*3) No Partiality is a means of perfection*

The Gospel gives a beautiful example. Sun rises and gives its light to all, good as well as bad. Sun does not make any partiality 

Like wise when we rise above the concept of partiality we pass into the realm of perfection

*4) Hate no one is a means of perfection*

We may be having hundreds of reasons to hate some one 

Jesus hated no one. When we conquer this weakness of ours we enter into the realm of perfection 

*5) Praying for the persecutors*

Very difficult to practice this. As human beings we find difficult to pray for those who persecute us 

Jesus prayed for His persecutes. 

We we pray for those who persecute us, we rise to the realm of perfection

*6) Greet all, is a means to perfection*

Greet everyone. Those who greet you, those who don't greet you, those who are indifferent, those who persecute us, those who gossip, those who humiliate, those who take revenge and others as well 

By greeting all, we get into the realm of perfection 

*Be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Spirit of True Worship

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :First Week: Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:20-26*

*First Reading : Ez 18:21-28*

*The Spirit of True Worship*

*1) The Spirit of Reconciliation*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the spirit of true worship 

In this context, the Gospel highlights, the aspect of reconciliation is one of the best ways of true worship 

Reconciliation, repairs our relationship with others, with God and with oneself 

Without a proper relationship, one can't develop a true spirit of Worship 

*2) Restoration of the Relationship*

The Gospel also speaks about the restoration of the relationship 

One of the things which breaks our relationship is the Anger. So Jesus warns about the evil effects about the Anger 

Anger, breaks our relationship, it makes instigates to call another person as  fool, it takes revenge on another and finally destroys oneself 

So one should be careful with regard to anger and see the dangers of destroying the sacredness of relationship

*3) Gifts on the Altar*

Jesus also warns about the hypocrisy in the Worship 

Keeping anger in the mind and heart, and coming to the altar to offer something to God becumes useless 

Doing all kinds of injustice, cheating, duping others and finally coming to the altar to offer something is the highest form of hypocrisy 

It goes not only against the true spirit of worship, but also it becomes a mokery of worship 

*4) Disputes to the Court*

This goes against the true spirit of Worship 

Before it goes into the court one must be able to settle. 

Going to the court indicates some kind of irregularities, lack of reconciliation, lack of respect, and the arrogance

One must try to solve immediately disputes and other issues

It goes along with the true spirit of worship

*5) My Spirit of Worship?*

How about my way of Worship? 

Is it for the name sake? 

Is it the way to show the external piety 

Am I playing the duel role? 

I come across to God in worship as I come to the neighbour who is in need 

True worship is not only limited to the four walls of the Church 

The spirit of true worship is seen in the genuine relationship with Neighbor, which reflects my relationship with God 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

God remains faithful to His promise : Peter's Life Example

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :First Week: Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 16:13-19*

*First Reading : 1 Pt 5:1-4*

*God remains faithful to His promise : Peter's Life Example*

*1) The Call of Simon*

Jesus calls Simon, while he was involved in His work 

He was fishing at the sea of Galilee. Jesus intervened and helped them to catch huge amount of fish 

Finally Jesus calls Peter and he leaves everything and follows Jesus 

*2) Peter under Training*

The call of Peter is recorded in Matthew 4:18 

Till Chapter 15 Peter is with Jesus. We can call it as the period of training 

He came to know many things about Jesus and He became a zealous follower of Jesus 

He was ready to sacrifice His life for Jesus 

*3) Simon,  you are Peter and Rock*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the greatness of Peter 

Jesus called Him as Rock and upon this rock Jesus will build his Church 

Jesus gave him the keys of the Kingdom of heaven 

Powers of the Hades will not prevail against the Church founded on Rock by Jesus 

We can see the power, importance and significance of Peter 

*4) Get behind me Satan*

Soon after the confession of Peter about Jesus, we see a quite opposite view 

Jesus calls Him, Satan. Because Peter's plans were quite opposite to Jesus' plan 

Peter who was with Jesus could not understand the plan of Jesus 

*5) Denial of Peter*

Towards the end we also witness the denial of Peter

Peter denied Jesus at crucial time and finally he was not found during the crucifixion of Jesus 

Such a close friend of Jesus could not remain with Jesus

*6) Peters intention to go back to the old trade*

After the death of Jesus, Peter might have thought that everything over 

Since there is no leader, obviously no future. So he was thinking of going back to the old trade of fishing 

Once again we see the lack of hope in the life of Peter 

*7) Peter as great Leader*

Today we celebrate the great feast of the chair of St Peter 

It indicates the power, position, importance, authority, responsibility, service, etc 

Peter became first pope, great leader and saintly person 

*8) God remained faithful*

Jesus had promised to Peter about the Rock and building His church on this Rock 

Insipte of great failures of Peter, God still remained faithful to His promise

Peter on His Part, repented for His failures 

So the message is very clear, failures don't matter as long as one has humility to accept it and willingness to Change 

We all of are like Peter while committing sin

*But are we like Peter in repenting and changing our life?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Failure to recognize Jesus as great Sign from God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :First Week: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:29-32*

*First Reading : Jon 3:1-10*

*The Failure to recognize Jesus as great Sign from God*

*1) Jonah as a Sign to Nineveh*

The Gospel of the day speaks about Jonah and Nineveh

Jonah was a sign for the people of Nineveh and people accepted Jonah as a great sign 

*Jonah was a sign of Repentance:* 

People of Nineveh saw Jonah as a sign of repentance and they repentanted for their evil things 

*Jonah was a sign of Conversion*

For people of Nineveh, Jonah was a sign of conversion. Finally people were able to change their lives 

*Jonah was a sign of Humility*

Humility was another sign which people of Nineveh saw in Jonah. Therefore, they humbled themselves before God 

*Jonah as messenger of God*

People saw Jonah as the messenger of God. Therefore they accepted him, they accepted his message and changed their lives 

*2) Solomon as a sign of Wisdom*

The reference to Solomon is found in today's Gospel

Solomon is projected as the sign of Wisdom. He was one of the most wisest king ever lived in this world 

To the Queen of South, Solomon became a great sign, that's why she came to listen to Solomon 

*3) Jesus as a great Sign for present Generation*

Jesus is a sign of God's love 

Jesus is the sign of forgiveness

Jesus is the sign of humility

Jesus is the sign of God's mercy

Jesus is the sign of salvation

Jesus is the sign of peace 

Jesus is the sign of liberation

Jesus is the sign of service

Jesus is the sign of comfort

Jesus is the sign of holiness

Jesus is the sign of light 

Jesus is the sign of victory 

Jesus is the sign of hope 

Jesus is the sign of way to heaven 

*4) Failure to accept Jesus as great Sign*

The Gospel sharply observes that, Jesus' own people failed to recognize Jesus as great sign 

The life of Jesus is the bundle of various signs, overflowing from Jesus' life 

Yet the His own people failed to recognize as God's great Sign 

*5) My Life*

How do I see, the life of Jesus? 

Do I accept Jesus as great sign?

How do I practice these great signs in my day today life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Richness of Lord's Prayer

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :First Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 6:7-15*

*First Reading : Is 55:10-11*

*Richness of Lord's Prayer*

*1) God is Present*

The title *Lord's Prayer* highlights the place of God in this prayer 

In fact the first part of the prayer purely speaks about the greatness of God

God's holiness, God's dwelling place, God's power, His relationship with human beings and other things as well are highlighted in the prayer 

*2) Human being is present*

The second part of the prayer speaks various aspects of human life 

Like God, Human being also given much importance in this prayer, to reflect about the various aspects of his life and to know his/her real worth in relation to God 

*3) Nature and Daily Work*

The prayer also involves the nature in the context of Work for daily bread

When we pray for daily bread, in indicates that one is supposed to work, work in the nature 

So the human relationship with the nature is very much highlighted in the Lord's prayer

*4) Daily Bread*

One of the important  things for our survival is food 

Anything can be postponed. But human hunger can't be postponed 

Praying for  Daily bread also highlights our dependence on God, and the need of working every day 

*5) Human weakness & forgiveness of Sins*

The prayer also highlights about the Human weakness and how to deal about it 

The prayer says *forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us*

When we forgive others, God forgives our sins. That is the Love of God 

This aspect also speaks about the aspect of God's Mercy towards human being 

God is ever ready to forgive our sins and to accept us as His beloved Children

*6) Deliverance from Devil*

The Final part also speaks about the deliverance from Devil 

The devil is working tirelessly to break our relationship with God and to destroy us 

That's why the Lord's prayer has a beautiful thought *lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil*

We need the grace and strength from the Lord, to conquer the devil. Devil is the biggest enemy of the human being. It can be defeated only with the help of God 

So, Jesus has given us such a beautiful and great prayer, which has multiple aspects, which we adapt while praying 

So its a great and rich prayer. Let's use this prayer in our day today life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' Mission in Simple words

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : First Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 25:31-46*

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

*Jesus' Mission in Simple words*

*1) The Core Message of Jesus' Mission*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the core message of Jesus' mission and Christian Spirituality 

The Gospel puts across this core message in simple terms, which can be understood by any one 

This core message is very powerful and very heart touch which directly affects the lives of the people 

*2) The kernel of the Core message*

The Gospel gives us this in the following format 

*I was hungry and you gave me food*

*I was thirsty and you gave me drink,*

*I was a stranger and you welcomed me*

*I was naked and you clothed me,*

*I was ill and you cared for me,*

*I was in prison and you visited me*

So beautifully explained in today's Gospel

*3) Any one can do these things*

The message of Jesus is very clear and which can be done by any one 

The above said things are very appealing which touch the everyday living experience of our life 

So, Jesus gives us the simplest method to carry out His mission in an effective way 

*4) Need Some self discipline*

To carry out the mission of the Lord, which is mentioned above, one need to follow certain self-discipline 

Need to consider other as ones own brother or sister 

Need to have generous heart 

Need a great amount of humility

Need to understand the message of Jesus in a deeper way 

Need to think about the needy people 

*5) Helping to Jesus Himself*

The Gospel clearly says *whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.*

It appears many have not realised the hidden meaning and gravity of this message 

Its reaching out Jesus. 

If Jesus is in real need who will reject. No one. On the contrary there will be millions of people who will come forward to help Jesus 

But the same people are not able to see Jesus in the poor, marginalized, down trodden, suffering and in others 

The moment one realises the real meaning of the above words definitely will help others 

But the question is how many will understand the gravity of this message

What about me *whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.*

Have I understood the meaning of these words in a deeper way? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' Mission amidst Temptation

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : First Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 1:12-15*

*First Reading : Gn 9:8-15*

*SECOND READING : 1 Pt 3:18-22*

*Jesus' Mission amidst Temptation*

*1) Jesus in the Wilderness*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the temptation 

Jesus went into the desert and remained there for 40 days 

The Gospel also says that, *Jesus was with tempted by Satan.He was among wild beasts,*

Wild beasts once again symbolizes the demonic forces which were present in the place where Jesus was present 

On the other side the Satan was tempting in every possible way to trap Jesus 

This also shows that Satan and its kingdom with wild beasts 

So one should be very careful with regard to this 

*2) Jesus was not affected by the Evil*

In fact in the desert Jesus was surrounded by the evil forces

But none of the powers could affect Jesus in any way 

He was focused on the Mission of the Father, so he didn't give attention to the temptation 

This also conveys a powerful message that, even though there is lot of evil arround us, unless we permit, it can't enter into our life 

*3) The beginning of Jesus' ministry*

*After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God*

This sentence gives us a powerful message about the continuity of God's mission

Herod might have thought with the departure of John, the mission will come to an end 

At this juncture, the entry of Jesus is seen 

This shows that God's work can't be sopped 

When one tries to stop, God open another way to continue it 

Jesus is the best example is seen in today's Gospel

*4) Call for Repentance*

To remain far away from sin,  and say no to devil and to continue the mission of the Lord, we need a special instrument, which is called repentance

As we begin this lent, Jesus calls each and every one of us for repentance

Repentance increases our willing power to say no to devil 

Jesus, who won over the temptation, let's also try our best to overcome from our temptation, which we face everyday.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Levi at customs post and Levi at the Table

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Saturday after  Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 5:27-32*

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

*Levi at customs post and Levi at the Table*

*1) Levi was sitting at the customs post*

This particular position of Levi, clearly indicates many things of Levi 

Levi does not go to the people but seated there. People should come to him 

He is like a master and others are at to listen to him 

The relationship with others only with regard to business. Nothing more, nothing less 

Here Levi alone. No people are found there. Even if others come, they finish their work and go back 

He had money with Him, but didn't have care, concern, relationship, love, belongingness etc.

Here he belonged to no one. Only business is the motive 

At the Tax office Jesus didn't stay. He simply told Levi *Follow me* and he came 

*2) Levi at the Table at Home*

Here he is not sitting in one place and commanding others 

Here there are many people who are arround him 

Here there is a sharing of the meal, which highlights the importance of belongingness

Here, there is a presence of Jesus and He remains for long time 

Here Jesus becomes the centre of attraction

Here Levi is busy at the service of others 

Here Levi Gives to the others. Nothing he receives 

Here Levi accommodates Many. Where as at the tax booth he sends them immediately, after the business

Here he shares with others whatever he has. There he is not generous. Only receives 

Here there is family atmosphere. There it is business

 

*3) Conversion at Levis House*

First of all, other tax collecters, who were there got an opportunity to experience the mercy of God 

Secondly, Levi Himself got converted from his former sinful life to the new life 

Levi's house became a place of conversion

It became a place to experience the human relationship, divine relationship and internal relationship with ones own self 

*4) Where is my Place?*

How do I behave at the place like tax office? 

How to I approach at the places life Levi's House in

What are the difference you see with regard to these two places 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Real Meaning of the Fast

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Friday after Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:14-15*

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

*The Real Meaning of the Fast*

*1) The Question of Fasting*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the importance of fasting 

Fasting is One of the pillers of Observing the the spirit of  lent 

The first reading of today gives us the concept real spirit of fast 

*2) Genuine Fast means the Following*

*Releasing those bound unjustly*

There are thousands of people who are bound unjustly for various reasons. What can I do to provide justice to them? 

*Untying the thongs of the yoke*

The yoke of rejection

The yoke of humiliation

The yoke of jealousy

The yoke of gossip

The yoke of selfishness

The yoke of anger 

The yoke of indifference

The yoke of cruelty

The yoke of greed 

*Setting free the oppressed*

Oppression due to poverty

Oppression due to slavery

Oppression due to ignorance

Oppression due to fear

*Sharing your bread with the hungry*

Feeding the hungry is one of the ways of observing the spirit of real fast 

People are hungry for love, forgiveness, accompaniment, support, etc

*Sheltering the oppressed and the homeless*

There are number of people who are homeless due to various reasons. What can I do for them during this lent? 

*Clothing the naked when you see them*

Naked person is the one who has lost everything 

There is nothing left. Even the self dignity. To such a person what can I do? Can I help him/her in some way? 

*Not turning your back on your own*

How do I consider my own people? 

Do I have a good rapport with them? 

What is my relationship with them? 

Do I turn my back to them? 

*3) Where do I belong?*

What is my understanding of fasting? 

Is it only abstaining from some food? 

Only abstaining from some food will not help us in practicing the spirit of fast? 

Fasting of that senses and the self is the real fast. 

*Am I able to practice this in some way?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Rejection, Suffering, Martyrdom and Resurrection are the integral part of Christian life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Thursday after Ash Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 9:22-25*

*First Reading : Dt 30:15-20*

*Rejection, Suffering, Martyrdom and Resurrection are the integral part of Christian life*

*1)  The Important Things in Jesus' Life*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the very important things in Jesus' Life 

*A) Rejection*

Rejection of Jesus can be found even in His birth. The selfish king Herod did not welcome the Birth of Jesus 

Later Jesus was rejected in His own town by His own people 

Finally he was rejected by the larger number of people which led to be crucified on the Cross

*B) Suffering*

Jesus had to face severe suffering while preaching the Kingdom of God and establishing the Kingdom of God 

The intense suffering at the scourging, carrying of the Cross, and finally the  painful crucifixion

Apart from this physical suffering, the mental suffering, the emotional suffering, and other sufferings as well Jesus had to face 

*C) Martyrdom*

Jesus' glorious martyrdom on the Cross, for the sake of entire human kind 

Martyrdom on the Cross, by scarifying his life for everyone, to make us the sharers of eternal life 

*D) Resurrection*

This is seen as the final goal of rejection, suffering and Martyrdom

Unless there is resurrection, there is not meaning for these things 

*2) By ones own People*

The Gospel clearly says, *The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes*

All these belong to the Jewish community. Jesus also the part of this community 

Ultimately Jesus had to face all these things from His own community 

*3) Purpose of Jesus' Mission*

All these things happened Jesus' Life for our sake. *That we may have life, life in abundance*

Jesus didn't suffer for the sake of suffering, He suffered for our sake, to liberate us from sin and slevery and to give us real freedom 

*4) Reality of our life*

All the things which happened in the life of Jesus shows the way in which the follower of Jesus should proceed

Accordingly, the rejection, suffering and the martyrdom of various kinds are the integral part of Christian life 

There is no resurrection, without rejection, suffering and the Cross 

This is how it moves 

*5) Season of Lent*

It is a season of God's grace 

It is a special time for us to reflect about, suffering and cross of Jesus and to find meaning to our suffering and Cross 

Until and unless we find meaning in Suffering and Cross, our life becomes meaningless 

 Am I ready to find meaning in suffering and Cross or do I wait only for glorious things in life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various Spiritual meanings of Ashes

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Ash Wednesday*

*14 -02-2024*

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

*First Reading : Jl 2:12-18*

*Various Spiritual meanings of Ashes*

*1) Ash Wednesday*

The season of Lent starts on Ash Wednesday

Since ashes are being used to apply on the head, this Wednesday came to be known as Ash Wednesday 

So, on this day, ashes play a very important role to communicate a powerful message. 

So it the right time to know the spiritual meaning of the Ashes 

*2) Ashes Reminds us about Death*

After Adam sinned, God told him, *By the sweat of your brow you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return (Gen 3:19)*.

This clearly speaks about the death. So it is an occasion for us to reflect about our own death and what we will have in our death 

*3) It is a symbol of Humility*

*My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. Therefore, I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes”* (Job 42:3-6).

Notice that Job does not merely repent in a general sense. Rather, having encountered God, he realizes that God is God, and that he is mere dust and ashes in the presence of God, who is being itself, who is all in all. 

Ash Wednesday reminds us the importance of the humility which we need to practice in our day today life 

*4) A sign of a true change*

*Scripture says, When the news reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust* (Jonah 3:6).

Here, ashes seem as a sign of repentance.  But the symbol alone is not enoug actual repentance is required. 

Lent is a time for my own repentance

*5) It is a symbol  Purification*

Ashes represent for purification

During this season, we give special attention to purifying ourselves 

In fact that is one of the main purposes to ashes, that is purification

*6) What are my convictions about Ashes?*

As I apply the ashes, as I begin this Lenten season, what are my convictions? 

Does this practice remain only as a external sign? 

Does this ash give any special meaning to my life 

As I apply *ashes* tomorrow, what I want to become and why I should practice these tractional practices

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do you not remember: God's Regular reminders for our life?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 6th Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mk 8:14-21*

*First Reading : Jas 1:12-18*

*Do you not remember: God's Regular reminders for our life?*

*1) Jesus reminds them great Things*

The Gospel of the day has a beautiful as well as very serious question, that is about God's great things in our life 

Jesus reminds them many things 

*when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many wicker baskets full of fragments you picked up?” They answered him, “Twelve.” When I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many full baskets of fragments did you pick up?” They answered him, “Seven.”*

Jesus reminds them two great things and the benefits of these two things and also the reaction of the people towards the great things 

*2) The Whole Bible is the God's reminder to us*

All the great and wonderful things of God are recorded in the Bible 

Bible is the Record of great and wonderful things, of God, for the sake of the human beings 

While reading the Holy Bible God reminds us His great things to us 

*3) Everyday God reminds the great Things for us*

Everyday we read the bible  and we reflect about it 

This is nothing but God is reminding us the great things for us 

God is very keen in reminding his great things for us 

*4) What is my response?*

In the Gospel we see that, when Jesus reminded them great things to his followers, they really remembered the great things and their involvement in the great things 

As Jesus reminds the great things to me, what is my response? 

Do I feel that these great things which are reminded to me everyday, happen in my life? 

Do I involve myself in these great things to experience God in my life? 

Am I indifferent to his reminders? 

*5) The need of reminders*

First of all our memory is very short 

We tend to forget many things, especially the God's great things 

So we need the regular reminders, to understand and to experience these great things in our life 

Regular reminders will definitely help us in knowing the great wonders of the Lord in our Life 

Gospel is the regular reminder of God's great things for our life 

Am I ready to use these reminders 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*

Why does this generation seek a sign?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 6th Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Mk 8:11-13*

*First Reading : Jas 1:1-11*

*Why does this generation seek a sign?*

*1) The Question of Sign*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the aspect of Sign. 

In this particular context sign may refer to a miracle or an action which can prove the divinity of Jesus 

In this context, the Gospel has a beautiful question *Why does this generation seek a sign?*

This question is relevant for all people at all time 

*2) Why Pharisees needed a sign?*

The Gospel clearly says that Pharisees came to Jesus asking for a sign 

They came and argued with Jesus and not requested for a sign 

The sign they needed from Jesus, only to challenge Jesus, to belittle him, and to question his divinity 

In no way the Pharisees had good intention to have sign from Jesus 

*3) Do I seek sign from Jesus?*

Seeking a sign from Jesus expresses the lack of faith in Jesus 

What do I do, when I am 

Challenged? When I am trapped? When evey one leaves my hand? 

What will be my response? 

*4) Jesus itself is the great Sign*

When there is a clear and visible sign, there is no question of asking for another sign 

The Pharisees knew that Jesus is the great Sign, yet they were not ready to accept the fact 

This shows their arrogance and hypocrisy

If they had asked for a genuine reason Jesus would have definitely help them in certain way to clarify their doubts 

Since their intention was wrongly motivated, Jesus didn't give them any signs 

*5) Faith can not only remain at the level of Signs*

The Gospel of the day also gives us a great challenge to check whether our faith is at the level of signs or at deeper level 

A faith, which purely based on the signs could be like seed fell on the rocky ground or among Thorny bushes, which fails to produce any fruits 

Is my faith depends only on signs? 

*6) The great Signs today*

Eucharist is one of the best signs we have 

Crucifix 

Word of God 

Adoration 

Sacrament of reconciliation 

Power of prayer 

Weapon of Rosary 

Our life itself is a great sign 

Have a discovered the deeper meaning of these above signs?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' Invitation to purify oneself

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 6th Week: Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 1:40-45*

*First Reading : Lv 13:1-2, 44-46*

*SECOND READING - 1 Cor 10:31-11:1*

*Jesus' Invitation to purify oneself*

*1) Lepers Humble Request*

The leper had a genuine request to get rid of his leprosy 

That's why He comes to Jesus and kneels down, which shows his humility 

Then he begged Jesus for the purification, who is the author of everything

*2) Jesus' Gentle invitation to the Leper*

In response to the request of the leper, Jesus gives him a wonderful invitation 

Invitation to become a new person. 

Jesus says, *I do will it. Be made clean.*

It was the wish of Jesus for the leper to become clean 

Jesus' wish is always follows the great result

Accordingly he became clean and became new person  

*3) The Leper was cleansed*

The Gospel says that, leper was totally cleansed because the leper wanted it and Jesus willed it 

When these two things happen in our life, miracles do happen in our life. 

These are the two things which are required for purification

*4) The invitation to all*

The invitation which was given to the leper, Jesus also gives us every day

Jesus says *I do will it. Be made clean.*

So it is an open invitation to all of us. In fact we need the process of cleansing every day 

We are affected with the leprosy of Sin

*5) The sacrament of Reconciliation*

We have a wonderful opportunity to cleanse ourselves, through the sacrament of reconciliation

With this sacrament, we experience the cleansing power of Jesus and we become new being  

Through this sacrament, we can really experience the mercy of the Lord, which makes us new beings 

*6) Season of Lent*

We are very close to the season of Lent 

This is a special season where Jesus gives us a special invitation to all of us, to involve ourselves in the process of purification 

It is also a special season of grace where, special opportunities are given to all of us to get rid off our leprosy of sin 

Let's us use this season to purify ourselves and to become new beings. 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

To begin the good work, one need not have resources in plenty

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 8:1-10*

*First Reading : 1 Kgs12:26-32; 13:33-34*

*To begin the good work, one need not have resources in plenty*

*1) Great crowds*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a great crowd which followed Jesus 

According to the evangelist, there were 4000 people who had come to listen to Jesus

The crowd remained with Jesus for almost three days

*2) Limited Resources*

At the end of the third day, the resources which they might have brought when they got exhausted 

Since that was a deserted place, they had no option to arrange for some food immediately 

Yet there were 7 loaves of bread and few fish were found among the crowd 

Considering the number of  people and the items which were found, could be considered as very very little since it could be shared by only few 

*3) Work begins with the blessings of God* 

When these 7 loaves and few fish comes into the hands of Jesus, the situation totally changes 

Jesus begins the work, by invoking the heavenly Father's assistance and protection 

The work began with God's blessing, becomes a great miracle. 

*4) Good Work began with few things*

The entire work began with only few things 

Jesus started with 7 loaves and few fish and there was a great miracle 

This incident clearly shows, to begin a good work, one need not have too many sources 

Good work can begin with very little whatever we have. God multiplies the work which done with sincere heart  

*5) Small beginning and great achievement*

The parable of the mustard seed clearly shows the greatness of small beginning 

Mother Theresa started her mission with 5 Rupees. 

Great things have small beginning 

Its a mystery and God can work wonders when we cooperate with Him 

*6) Waiting is foolishness*

Beginning a good work with whatever we have is a great wisdom 

One who waits for acquiring all the things to begin a good work, can never succeed in doing any work 

All can do great good works with whatever resources we have  

One should never wait to accumulate resources to begin the work 

A good work  started with good and pure intention, for the betterment of the fellow beings always has a happy ending 

Every little Good work never goes unnoticed by the Lord. 

We are blessed by God, for every little good deed

Am I ready to begin a little good work, with whatever I have?

*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 Ears and Tongue

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Friday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:31-37*

*First Reading : 1 Kgs 11:29-32; 12:19*

*The importance of the Ears and Tongue*

*1) God's beautiful gift*

Among many gifts of God, the ears and Tongue are the marvelous gifts 

One can't imagine life without ears and tongue. They are very essential to our life 

One of the finest gifts of God to human life 

*2) The Touch of Jesus*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the miracle of healing a deaf and dumb man 

In the process of healing the man, Jesus touches the ears and tongue of the person and heals him 

The touch of Jesus is very powerful which can heal a person form any sickness 

*3) The touch of Jesus Today*

The same Jesus who touch the deaf and dumb man, also touches us to heal from various impediments 

Jesus touches our ears, through His words. When we carefully listen to the Word of God, it is Jesus who touches us though the process of hearing and helps us to understand its value 

The moment we proclaim  the Word of God, Jesus touches our mouth, and purifies it 

Eucharist is the best way though which Jesus touches our tongue, in the form of Holy Communion 

*4) Life depends on ears and Tongue*

What we hear, has a lot of impact on our life 

Our life is the bundle of experiences, which we get through the, hearing 

*We become, what we hear in our day today Life*

We are valued according tk the use of our tongue

Proper use of the tongue makes our life beautiful, but abuse of the togue, breaks our life 

Both Ears and Tongue, are able to break or build our life 

*5) Do you need the Touch of Jesus?*

The touch of Jesus is so powerful, it can change our life,  like that of a man in the Gospel

For this reason, am I ready to allow myself to be touched by Jesus? 

How do I experience the touch of Jesus?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Gentile Daughter and the Syrophoenician Woman become the Children of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Thursday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:24-30*

*First Reading : 1 Kgs 11:4-13*

*The Gentile Daughter and the Syrophoenician Woman become the Children of God*

*1) Children of God according to Jews*

According to their understanding and argument, only the people of Israel, so called the chosen people are the Children of God 

They think that by birth they are eligible for salvation. Messiah only belongs to them and others have no part in it 

Other than Jews are considered sinners, unclean people and not eligible for the salvation 

*2) Children of God according to Jesus*

Any one can become the child of God 

This provision is not reserved for certain class of people, or sections of people 

It is not meant for certain areas,  language or territory 

It is universal, and anyone can become the children of God 

*3) Daughter and the Woman*

The Gospel of the day  shows how these gentile people become the children of God 

By birth they were non Jews. Accordingly they are not eligible for salvation 

Messiah is not meant for them 

Such a belief is challenged by Jesus and by granting the favour to the woman and the child Jesus strongly conveys the message that all are eligible for salvation  

They became the real and genuine children of God 

*4) Necessary things to become the Children of God*

The necessary things needed to become the children of God from the woman and the daughter

First of all a deep sense of faith in Jesus 

Secondly,  the virtue of humility

Thirdly, a strong sense of perseverance

Fourthly: complete dependence on God 

When these things reflect in life anyone can become the child of God 

*5) Am I the real child of God?*

Do I claim, that because of Baptism I am a child of God or do I have the above qualities? 

What are the virtues which are found in me, which make me the Child of God? 

Do I live my life, according to the Child of God? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Is man responsibile for Evil?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:14-23*

*First Reading : 1 Kgs 10:1-10*

*Is man responsibile for Evil?*

*1) Evil enters the World through the Human Being*

In the book of Genesis we have a creation story 

God created variety of things. Nature was so beautiful 

Until the 5th God created numerous things. But none of them had any problem. Everything was very peaceful and Serene

God created the Human beings on the 6th Day, with His own image and likeness 

In the presence of such a man the evil enters into the world, and human being loses its original holiness  

*2) List of Evil things - Found only in human beings*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a list of Evil things. They are the following

*Unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly.*

The above things are not found in any of the animals which are created by God 

They are neither found in the Nature. Nature is so pure

All these evil things are found in the Human heart, and from there they operate through the human beings 

So Human beings become the face of Evil things in the world 

*3) Human beings is not Evil by nature*

Since God created Human beings into His own image and likeness, there is a basic goodness which is really found in all human beings 

The warning of Jesus in today's Gospel is to become aware of this basic goodness and to become good persons 

Realising the basic goodness, which is within us, will help us to bring out this basic goodness and to live a good life 

*4) Prison, Case, Court, punishment, Reward - Only for human beings*

There is no court for animals 

There is not judge for animals 

There are no case against the animals 

There is no prison for animals to punish them 

There is no lawyer for animals to fight their case 

All these above things simply tell us that, bad and evil things have no connection to the nature and the animals 

*5) Human Heart is the centre of evil things*

The Gospel of the day makes it very clear, that all evil things proceed from the human heart 

*“The heart is deceitful above all things, And  wicked; Who can know it?* Jeremiah 17:9

This shows the real nature of the human Heart 

*6) Which dominates in me - Good or Evil*

Both good and evil is present in human beings. 

It is ultimately, human beings decide, to do good or bad 

The choice is always for human beings. Good or evil depends on the choice of the Human beings 

If so, what dominates in me, it decides my life 

Human beings are the only creature who can control the evil and turn evil into good. But one should have the willpower to do good and avoid evil 

What is my choice? 

What is that which comes out of my heart?  

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Controversy of Purification

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:1-13*

*First Reading :  1 Kgs 8:22-23, 27-30*

*The Controversy of Purification*

*1) The Question of Purification*

The entire Gospel of the day speaks about the aspect of Purification 

The Pharisees and Scribes criticised the followers of Jesus, because of the question of purification

Jesus called them hypocrites because of their insistence on the  wrong understanding purification

*2) Scribes, Pharisees and Purification*

The first part of the Gospel speaks about the understanding of the purification according to scribes and Pharisees

They spoke about the purification of the hand before taking the food 

They highlighted the purification of the external body after returning from the market place 

They spoke about the purification of the cups and jugs and kettles and beds

These were the main things for them for purification 

*3) Jesus and Purification*

Jesus also highlighted the aspect of purification from the beginning of His ministry 

Jesus spoke about the purification of the lips and of the tongue - the language we use 

Jesus spoke about the purification of the heart - the feeling we express

Jesus spoke about the purification of the mind - the thought pattern of the person, which ultimately causes every action of ours 

Jesus spoke about the purification of our eyes, ears, attitude, behavior, and our internal self

*4) The effect of purification*

The purification, according to the scribes and Pharisees will help us in maintaining our biological health 

This purification is seen the the hygienic point of view 

Jesus speaks about the spiritual purification which is more important than anything else 

Out of two, only the second type of purification, which was highlighted by Jesus makes us 

Real human beings 

Helps us to find meaning for our life 

Makes us spiritual being 

Makes us to live a good life 

Helps us to follow the moral principles 

Helps us to have divine experience

Ultimately only the second form of purification will help us to attain eternal life 

*5) Purification, tradition and Commandments of the Lord*

Purification of scribes and Pharisees give importance to the traditions of the elders and man made rules 

Purification which was highlighted by Jesus helps us to follow the commandments of the Lord

Human comforts are at the centre in the purification of the scribes and Pharisees 

God experience and spiritual wellbeing is at the centre in Jesus' purification 

*6) What is my Choice?*

Like Pharisees and scribes we also follow the external purification and give more importance

At times We become slaves and  hypocrites by following unreasonable traditions, which highlights only the external show, pomp and glory 

In most of our social functions the external glory and show dominates and many think that is the real life 

But Jesus shows us the real purification should come from heart, mind and the entire self, which gives us the real meaning for our life

If so, what's my choice?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Controversy of Purification

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mk 7:1-13*

*First Reading :  1 Kgs 8:22-23, 27-30*

*The Controversy of Purification*

*1) The Question of Purification*

The entire Gospel of the day speaks about the aspect of Purification 

The Pharisees and Scribes criticised the followers of Jesus, because of the question of purification

Jesus called them hypocrites because of their insistence on the  wrong understanding purification

*2) Scribes, Pharisees and Purification*

The first part of the Gospel speaks about the understanding of the purification according to scribes and Pharisees

They spoke about the purification of the hand before taking the food 

They highlighted the purification of the external body after returning from the market place 

They spoke about the purification of the cups and jugs and kettles and beds

These were the main things for them for purification 

*3) Jesus and Purification*

Jesus also highlighted the aspect of purification from the beginning of His ministry 

Jesus spoke about the purification of the lips and of the tongue - the language we use 

Jesus spoke about the purification of the heart - the feeling we express

Jesus spoke about the purification of the mind - the thought pattern of the person, which ultimately causes every action of ours 

Jesus spoke about the purification of our eyes, ears, attitude, behavior, and our internal self

*4) The effect of purification*

The purification, according to the scribes and Pharisees will help us in maintaining our biological health 

This purification is seen the the hygienic point of view 

Jesus speaks about the spiritual purification which is more important than anything else 

Out of two, only the second type of purification, which was highlighted by Jesus makes us 

Real human beings 

Helps us to find meaning for our life 

Makes us spiritual being 

Makes us to live a good life 

Helps us to follow the moral principles 

Helps us to have divine experience

Ultimately only the second form of purification will help us to attain eternal life 

*5) Purification, tradition and Commandments of the Lord*

Purification of scribes and Pharisees give importance to the traditions of the elders and man made rules 

Purification which was highlighted by Jesus helps us to follow the commandments of the Lord

Human comforts are at the centre in the purification of the scribes and Pharisees 

God experience and spiritual wellbeing is at the centre in Jesus' purification 

*6) What is my Choice?*

Like Pharisees and scribes we also follow the external purification and give more importance

At times We become slaves and  hypocrites by following unreasonable traditions, which highlights only the external show, pomp and glory 

In most of our social functions the external glory and show dominates and many think that is the real life 

But Jesus shows us the real purification should come from heart, mind and the entire self, which gives us the real meaning for our life

If so, what's my choice?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The importance of Recognizing Jesus in my Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Mk 6:53-56*

*First Reading : 1 Kg 8:1-7, 9-13*

*The importance of Recognizing Jesus in my Life*

*1) People at Gennesaret*

The plain of Gennesaret has been called, from its fertility and beauty, “the Paradise of Galilee.” 

When Jesus came to Gennesaret, people recognized Jesus 

In this context, recognizing Jesus becomes very important aspect, because all those things which happened in Gennesaret, has its beginning in recognising Jesus 

*2) If they were unable to recognize Jesus!!!*

As Jesus leaving the boat people recognized Him 

If they were unable to recognize Jesus, He would have moved to the other places 

First of all those people would have lost the chance of meeting Jesus and secondly they would not have witnessed, great miracles of Jesus in the context of healing 

All those things happened, because they recognised Jesus and brought all the sick people to Him, to be healed from their ailments

*3) Recognising Jesus and bringing others to Jesus*

The Gospel incident has this two beautiful things which are very much necessary for our life 

First of recognizing Jesus and secondly bringing needy people to Jesus 

Those people at Gennesaret not only recognised the real identity of Jesus, but brought all the sick, suffering and needy people to get-rid off thier sickness and other health related issues 

This is the real Christian spirituality we need to follow I our lives 

*4) Am I able to recognize Jesus in my life and activities?*

The one word answer to this question would be, yes I am able to recognize Jesus 

But at the deeper level we need to think seriously about this question

Am I able to see the hand of God in every good work that I do? 

Am I able to see the hand of Jesus in my every success story? 

If I take the credit for everything, then our devotions and other spiritual activities has no meaning 

Recognizing Jesus in our day to day activities, will help us to Love him more and more 

*5) Failure to recognize Jesus*

Failure in recognizing will end up in losing all the Spiritual graces 

If we fail we recognize Jesus, we will lose all the spiritual blessings 

Failure to recognize Jesus is to failure to experience his Divine Mercy and love 

*6) My Mission*

First of all recognize Jesus in my daily life, daily work and in other daily activities

Secondly, know his divine power and the need for our daily life 

Thirdly, we need to bring those people especially those who are sick, needy, troubled, desperate and suffering 

If these things happen in my life, my mission of recognizing Jesus becomes complete

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

God in Two Houses

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 5th Week: Sunday*

*Gospel :  Mk 1:29-39*

*First Reading : Jb 7:1-4, 6-7*

*SECOND READING - 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23*

*God in Two Houses*

*1) Jesus in Synagogue*

The Gospel of the day, begins with the information that Jesus was in Synagogue

Synagogue is a place of prayer, place to experience God, and to know His plan for our life 

It is a place to thank God, reflect His great deeds and to know his greatness 

It is a place to ask His grace and strength

*2) Jesus comes out of Synagogue*

After spending sufficient time to experience the heavenly Father, Jesus moves out of the synagogue 

He goes along with His disciples to Simon's house 

Jesus went there no to spend his time for enjoyable things but to serve the people 

*3) Jesus in Simon's house*

Peter's mother in law was sick. She was suffering from fever 

One of the reasons for Jesus' coming to Peter's house is to heal his mother in law 

So he precisely came there to heal the sick and give her good health 

*4) Two Houses : Receiving and Giving*

In the first house - synagogue is meant for receiving 

Receiving from God, the strength, courage, wisdom, mercy, hope, foresight, and various talents and skills to carry out His mission 

The Second house is meant for giving 

Whatever you have received from the Lord, now need to be shared 

So giving others, generosity is one of the important aspect of the second House 

As you receive from the first house so you distribute in Second House

*5) The relationship between Two houses*

These two houses are closely related with each other 

If there is no relationship between these two houses, then there can be hardly any growth in ones life 

Jesus or God is the one who relates these two houses and helps us the draw strength from one house and to serve the humanity in the second house 

*6) My life in two houses*

These two houses can't be separated from our life 

Our service in the second house, practically depends on the input in the first house 

The first house shows the way to second House. Second house shows the way towards Holy Life

*How is my life between these two houses?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' Response to the Glory of the Disciples

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 4th Week: Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 6:30-34*

*First Reading : 1 Kgs 3:4-13*

*Jesus' Response to the Glory of the Disciples*

*1) Great miracles in the hands of the Disciples*

Jesus had sent the 12 apostles, with authority over the unclean spirits and to cure the sick 

Jesus gave them the authority along with the responsibility, so that they could do the mission in an effective way 

The disciples went out with the command of Jesus and they performed great miracles in the name of Jesus 

*2) The Report of the Mission*

We see the disciples coming back and reporting the great miracles which have happened during their ministry 

The apostles might have been amazed and surprised at the miracles which have happened in and through them 

They might have been over thrilled to see the great miracles, which were happening in and through them 

So they wanted to communicate the same and wanted to feel great about it.

In a way the disciples were in the glory mood, when they communicated the great miracles to Jesus 

*3) The response of Jesus*

The Gospel does not say anything about it 

Definitely Jesus might have appreciated them for the great miracles 

But at the same time Jesus also gives them a powerful message to reflect about the source of the great miracles 

*4) Going to a deserted place*

Soon after their successful mission, Jesus takes his disciples to a deserted place to spend time in solitude 

This action of Jesus communicates a powerful message 

The disciples need to reflect about the source of miracles 

They should realise that God is working through them and not by their own power 

They should realise that with God anything is possible 

They should learn to depend on God and not on their own strength 

They should realise that God is the Source of every little Good Work 

*5) Great Works in my Life*

Like apostles Jesus has also given authority to carry on our mission 

Some times great miracles do happen in and through us. When such things happen what is my response ? 

 Am I able to see God's hand in it? 

Do I take credit for myself, forgetting the great favours of the Lord?

*6) Spending time in a deserted place*

This is an important exercise of our life 

To realise the Great deeds of the Lord, one needs to spend time in prayer 

Great secretes of the Kingdom of God is revealed to those who spend time in deserted place 

If so, am I ready to spend time in deserted place??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Presentation of Jesus into the Temple : New phase of Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season  : 4th Week: Friday*

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

*First Reading : Mal 3:1-4*

*The Presentation of Jesus into the Temple : New phase of Life*

*1) The Presentation of Jesus into the Temple*

After the birth of Jesus, He was presented in the temple 

After 40days of His birth, Joseph and Mary brought Jesus into the temple, and He was presented in the temple 

At the peripheral level, it appears that they were observing the Mosaic Law. But it has deeper Meaning 

*2) Presentation shows that one belongs to God*

In the presentation one is offered to God. So this gesture tells us that one belongs to God. There is a special relationship between God and Human beings 

*3) Presentation : A New beginning*

Presentation in the temple marks a new beginning in the life of the person 

When Jesus was presented in the temple, it gives a new beginning to the life of Jesus 

The same logic is also followed even in our life 

*4) Presentation makes a person divine*

Presentation, makes a person fully under the care and protection of God 

It is the beginning of a new journey towards, divinity

As Heavenly Father is perfect, we are beginning this journey of perfection, with the presentation

*5) Presentation : Beginning of Spiritual Journey*

This is the exact meaning of the presentation. 

With the presentation we begin a new journey of Spiritual life 

It is a beginning of our faith life 

It is a beginning of our moral life 

It is a beginning of our Christian Life 

*6) We are presented in the Temple*

All of us were presented in the temple by our parents at the time of Baptism

We were presented in the temple to become the children of God 

We were presented in the temple to live a good, disciplined, value based life and to bear witness to Christ

We were presented in the temple to show that we are fully belong to Jesus and to His mission 

We were presented in the temple to have special providence of God, Special protection of God, and special grace of God 

*7) Presentation and the Candle light procession*

This particular event also highlights the importance of the candle light procession

Candle gives light 

Candle dispels the darkness

Candle melts itself 

Candle shows the way 

Candle gives hope and courage 

Candle takes away the fear 

Jesus is the Divine Candle, Jesus is the light of the World 

What about me?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*