The Mystery of the Cross: First Jesus carried the Cross Then Cross carried Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Holy Week: Good Friday*

*Gospel : John 18: 1-19: 42*

*First Reading : Is 52:13-53:12*

*Second Reading : Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9*

*The Mystery of the Cross: First Jesus carried the Cross Then Cross carried Jesus*

*1) Jesus carrying the Cross*

Today's whole focus is on Jesus and the Cross, which he carried to the Calvary 

Jesus had spoken about the Cross much earlier, during His public ministry 

Now once, he was betrayed by Judas, Jesus was condemned to the death on the Cross

So Jesus was given a heavy Cross to be carried to the place of crucifixion

*2) Jesus carrying the Cross*

According to the Gospel, once Jesus was condemned to the death on the Cross, a heavy Cross was given to Jesus 

Jesus receives the Cross with an open arm, and he takes it, in His shoulder 

We see Jesus carrying the heavy Cross, on his shoulder and moving towards the calvary. 

Typically Jesus carried the Cross on his shoulder to Calvary

*3) Calvary the Turning point*

So far Jesus carried the Cross, till Calvary. Once he reached to the Calvary, preparations were made to crucify Him 

Once He was crucified, the Heavy Cross carried Jesus for few hours 

When Jesus was on the Cross, the Cross carried Jesus 

*4) Carrying is Cross is rather easy*

Here the Cross was kept on the Shoulder to carry to a particular place 

If Jesus was not physically beaten, then carrying of the Cross would not have been too difficult 

Since he was scourged, he was badly wounded. That's why carrying of the Cross becomes very difficult 

*5) Cross carrying is Terrible*

To this process, Jesus had to undergo terrible process of crucifixion 

Jesus had to die on the Cross 

Jesus had to be nailed to the Cross 

Jesus had to give his hands and leggs to the nail for crucifixion 

Such a process involves terrible pain and sacrifice of ones life 

That's why Cross carrying Jesus becomes a terrible painful event in Jesus' Life. 

*6) Both are necessary*

Carrying Cross by Jesus and, Cross carrying Jesus, both are very necessary

One is incomplete without the another 

One has no meaning without the another

If so, am I ready to accept the mystery of the Cross?

*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 Towel on Holy Thursday

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Holy Week: Holy Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 13:1-15*

*First Reading : Ex 12:1-8, 11-14*

*Second Reading : 1 Cor 11:23-26*

*The importance of the Towel on Holy Thursday*

*1) Holy Thursday is incomplete without the Towel*

The ceremony of Washing the feet on Holy Thursday, highlights the importance of service 

In this context and in this ceremony Jesus uses a towel. The Gospel says *He took a towel and tied it around his waist*

The purpose of the towel is to dry the feet after washing it 

Apart this this ritual ceremony there is also a hidden and spiritual meaning, which can be attributed to the towel 

*2) The towel of Humility*

Master is washing the feet of his disciples

This needs a greatest level of humility 

In order to wash the feet of our own brothers and sisters one needs a deeper level of humility. 

So one should cover oneself with the towel of humility to wash others feet 

*3) The towel of Service*

The whole event takes place in the context of service 

Washing of the feet is the trade mark of service 

So one should have the towel of service, in order to involve oneself in this gesture

*4) The Towel of Sacrifice*

Unless one has the towel of sacrifice, one will find very difficult to wash another's feet 

The towel of sacrifice inspires us to involve ourselves in the service for the kingdom of God 

*5) The Towel of forgiveness*

This towel is very important to wash the feet of another 

The towel of forgiveness, helps a person to accept another person as his own brother and sister 

Such an acceptance will help a person to give best service to another without any expectations 

*6) The towel of Love*

This was the foundation on which the entire episode of washing of the feet rests 

It is the reflection of Jesus' love for his disciples and to the entire world 

Jesus' Showed one of the best ways of showing ones love to another by washing of the feet 

The same has to be done by the followers of Jesus 

The Towel of love will work wonders in us 

*7) What towels I have in my life?*

Various towels are necessary to live our Christian faith effectively

If so what are the various towels I need in my life? 

The above mentioned towels are found in my life? Am I using them while doing my mission? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Does money Rule me or I rule money?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Holy Week: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 26:14-25*

*First Reading : Is 50:4-9a*

*Does money Rule me or I rule money?*

*1) The Power of Money*

Money is power, freedom, a cushion, the root of all evil, the sum of blessings. *Carl Sandburg*

Money has never made man happy, nor will it, there is nothing in its nature to produce happiness. The more of it one has the more one wants. *Benjamin Franklin*

Greed is not a financial issue. It's a heart issue. *Andy Stanley*

Never be a slave to money; be the master of your money. And once you become the master of your money, you will automatically start walking on the path of financial independence.

Be in control of your money. If you are not in full control of your money while dealing with it, then it will control you and you will never be able to achieve financial independence

*2) Money in the hands of Chief Priests*

The money could have used for some good work. But money was used for evil works 

With money power, they tempted Judas and used him for thier selfish goals 

They wanted to eliminate Jesus. To this plan they used Judas, by giving 30 silver coins 

This is the total misuse of money for selfish and immoral purpose 

*3) Money in the Hands of Judas*

Judas was very greedy with regard to money 

The Gospel says, he had the habit  of stealing the money from the common bag which was used to keep the account

His greed for money made him to betray Jesus. He was ready to sell Jesus for 30 pieces of Silver coins 

When people are greedy for money they are ready for anything, even to sell or kill another human being 

*4) The control of Money over Judas*

When people are greedy for money, then money rules over them 

Money becomes the Master and persons become the slaves 

Judas had become the slave to Master, which is money 

Money ordered him to betray Jesus and he did it 

Money promised him the worldly pleasure, that is why he took the path of betraying Jesus 

Money told him, with money one can do anything. So he wanted to have money by all means 

*5) The Rule of Money in life*

When money rules the life of a person, it is money which orders the person what to do and what not to do 

Money controls everything and one has no freedom to do anything 

When money rules ones life, the relationship become superficial, way of life changes, the attitude changes, the greed becomes strong 

*6) The End result of Money*

The life of Judas is the best example

Finally The money which he got by betraying Jesus, could not be used by Him 

Secondly, the life which was controlled by Money witnesses a terrible end. Judas commits suicide

Money also lost and life also lost

Greed for money ends up is losing everything

*7) Who is Ruling My Life?*

Even though Judas was a chosen  disciple of Jesus, money ruled his life 

He didn't give a chance to Jesus to rule his life and gave importance to Money to rule his life 

Who is ruling my life? 

Is it Jesus who rules my life? 

Is it money which is ruling my life? 

Is it I who control the money or money is controlling me?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Master, where are you going?”

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Holy Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 13:21-33, 36-38*

*First Reading : Is 49:1-6*

*“Master, where are you going?”*

*1) One of the important questions during Holy Week*

We are already in the Holy week and we have already started reflecting about the passion of Christ

There are so many important things about the life Jesus will take place during this week 

In this context it is very important to reflect about this question *Master, Where are you going?*

*2) Master is going to the Jerusalem*

Jesus' journey towards the Jerusalem. He has already begun his journey to Jerusalem 

There is also a heavenly Jerusalem. Jesus' journey also points out to heavenly Jerusalem 

It not only Jesus is going to Jerusalem, but along with him he is also preparing a way, so that all of us can go to heavenly Jerusalem

*3) Master is going to the Calvary*

Jesus' journey is towards Calvary

Jesus will take his Cross and move towards Calvary 

There he will be lifted up on the Cross 

When he is lifted up on the Cross, He will draw all men to Himself 

*4) Master is going to achieve a great mission*

The great mission is ahead of Jesus 

Whatever he had preached for three years, now time has come to show it in practical way or in reality 

He will achieve this great mission through the suffering, death and resurrection

So Master is going to accomplish a great mission through the sacrifice of his life on the Cross

*5) Master is going to institute a great Sacrament*

The sacrament of the Eucharist will be instituted by Jesus on Holy Thursday 

It is a sacrament which makes possible to remain Jesus in our midst at all time and at any moment 

Through this sacrament Jesus will remain with us forever and forever, and we are the witnesses of this fact 

*6) Master is going to offer his life for us*

This is the ultimate goal of Master's life 

He will offer his life on the Cross and he will accomplish His mission for the entire world 

The death of Jesus on the Cross remains as one of the great and memorable events for the salvation of the whole World 

*7) Where I am going?*

As we reflect the Master's journey, it is very important to reflect about our journey

So a obvious question, Where I am going? 

What is the significance of the journey of my life?

To which side I am moving? 

Is my journey moving in a right direction? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Mary Vs Judas

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Holy Week: Monday*

*Gospel : John 12:1-11*

*First Reading : Is 42:1-7*

*Mary Vs Judas*

*1) Mary and Judas*

Both these characters are mentioned in today's Gospel

Judas was called by Jesus. He was one among 12 apostles

Mary encountered Jesus' mercy and love, and she really became the genuine disciple of Jesus. Moreover she really loved Jesus 

*2) The cost of the oil*

The Gospel of the day also mentions about the *perfumed oil made from genuine aromatic nard*

The Gospel says that it was very costly oil 

Judas gives the value of this oil. He says *three hundred days’ wages*

Converted in Rs, it would be, 1,50,000 rs, if a person gets 500 rs as salary per day. 

The value of the oil will change according to the wage a person gets per day 

So there is no doubt that this oil was very costly

*3) Mary uses this costly oil for Jesus*

One among precious things Mary might have had this costly oil 

She uses this best oil for anointing Jesus' feet 

In other words it simply means, Mary gave a best things which she had in her life to Jesus

She didn't keep the best thing for herself 

*4) Judas' intention to use for Business*

The Gospel makes it very clear the language of Judas

From his language one can clearly understand that the whole idea of Judas to make business and to get best returns from the costly oil 

By selling the oil one can get big amount of money, which can be used for various purposes 

So Judas wants to use the best thing for business and not for Jesus 

Finally Judas has to commit suicide for the sake of money, which made him to betray Jesus

*5) Abel and Cain*

Abel used the best animal to offer God. Abel's offering was accepting by God and he was blessed by God 

Cain collected some grains and offered to God. In a way it was not the best grains. His offering was not accepted by God 

Finally Cain incurred a curse from God, and he became a cursed man 

*6) The reward for offering the best Thing to Jesus*

First of all she received the forgiveness for all her past sins 

Secondly, Jesus delivered her from all evil things, from seven deadly sins 

Thirdly she became the best disciple of Jesus

Fourthly, she received a chance to be with Jesus during passion death and burial of Jesus 

Finally she is the one who received the first great news of resurrection and she became the Apostle of the Apostles

She became blessed among men, to communicate the great news to the entire world 

*7) What do I offer to Jesus?*

Is the best thing or the ordinary thing? 

Life is the best thing which can be offered to Jesus 

Service can be another best thing

Forgiveness, humility, sacrifice, love, are some of the best things which can be offered to Jesus, whose value can't be counted in terms of money 

So, what is my offering to Jesus?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, continues through Passion, Death and Resurrection

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Holy Week: Palm Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 14:1-15:47 or 15:1-39*

*First Reading : Is 50:4-7*

*SECOND READING-Phil 2:6-11*

*Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, continues through Passion, Death and Resurrection*

*1) Importance of the Palm Sunday*

Palm Sunday holds a special place in the hearts of Christians worldwide, as it marks the beginning of Holy Week and commemorates the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem

The Triumphal Entry is considered a symbol of Jesus' messiahship and kingship. 

However, the crowd's expectation of Jesus as a political and military leader who would overthrow Roman rule was not Jesus' actual mission. 

Instead of a conquering king, Jesus came as the Prince of Peace, emphasizing spiritual salvation

*2) The meaning of the Palm Branches*

Palm branches hold significant symbolism within Palm Sunday and the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. 

In ancient times, palm fronds were associated with victory, peace, and eternal life. 

They were often used to welcome triumphant kings and military leaders as they entered cities after victorious battles or campaigns. 

This image is particularly fitting for Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem because it highlights his role as a humble yet victorious king who brings peace and salvation.

*3) Palm Sunday is a reminder of the selfless Love of Jesus*

One side there is a popularity, while entering into the city of Jerusalem 

On the other side, Jesus knew the challenges which he will have face in achieving his goals 

In such a situation Jesus was ready to sacrifice his life for the salvation of the entire world 

This shows the height of Jesus' unconditional love 

*4) Jesus on the Donkey*

Jesus chose to ride in on a donkey, which directly fulfilled the Old Testament prophecy of Zech. 9:9.

In Biblical times, it was common for kings or important people to arrive by a procession riding on a donkey. 

The donkey symbolized peace, so those who chose to ride them showed that they came with peaceful intentions. 

Jesus even then reminded us that He is the Prince of Peace.

*5) Palm Sunday and Hosanna*

When the people shouted "Hosanna!" they were hailing Christ as King. 

That word means "save now,". 

 though in their minds, people waited for an earthly king, God had a different way of bringing true salvation to all who would trust in Him.

Knowingly or unknowingly the palm Sunday slogan *Hosanna* simply cries to Jesus as saviour and only Jesus can save the world 

*6) Palm Sunday and God's reign*

Palm Sunday reminds us that the reign of Christ is far greater than any man's mind could ever conceive or plan.

Man looked for someone to fight their battles in the present-day world. Yet God had the ultimate plan of sending His Son to fight the final battle over death. 

This is the greatness - the battle over death. That's why we celebrate this week. We can be free of death because of Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

*7) The climax of Palm Sunday*

The real journey of victory starts on Palm Sunday and it achieves its goal on Friday on the Cross

It culminates in the Resurrection of Jesus who defeats the death and wins the battle

We are the beneficiaries of this battle 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Sanhedrin Meeting : Most deadliest Meeting ever Held in the Human History

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fifth Week:  Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 11:45-56

*First Reading : Ez 37:21-28

*The Sanhedrin Meeting : Most deadliest Meeting ever Held in the Human History*

*1) The Body of Sanhedrin*

In Judaism, Sanhedrin means "sitting together" or "council"

It is an assembly of 23 judges biblically required in every Jewish city.

The Talmud identifies two classes of rabbinical courts called Sanhedrin, a Great Sanhedrin and a Lesser Sanhedrin. 

Each city was to have its own lesser Sanhedrin of 23 judges, but there could be only one Great Sanhedrin of 71.

Without a qualifier, the term "Sanhedrin" normally refers to the Great Sanhedrin.

*2) The Convening of the Sanhedrin*

The Gospels indicate that thechief priests and the Pharisees convened the Sanhedrin to discuss a special yet a urgent issue 

The Sanhedrin came together to discuss about Jesus, His popularity, His mission, His influence and the probable threats to the Jewish leaders 

So this meeting had very important agenda according to their understanding

*3) Sanhedrin came together to Kill God's Son*

Since the Sanhedrin was convened to decide about the future of Jesus, it becomes very important 

Since they called Sanhedrin to kill Jesus who is the Son of God, this becomes one of the crucial and deadliest meeting in the Human History

Since they passed judgement on God himself to execute Him, this body remains as one of the deadliest body, in the Human History

*4) It violated Many Rules*

The Sanhedrin, which was supposed to follow all the rules in a systematic way, broke many of the Rules in the case of Jesus 

First of all the meeting was convened at night. In normal circumstances, the court does not decide in the night 

Secondly, the judgement on Jesus to kill him was taken within less than 12 hours or may be few more hours 

No court will decide a capital punishment on a person within less than 12 hours 

Moreover, Jesus was not given any chance to defend his position. It was one-sided trial to put an end to Jesus 

Therefore it was a most corrupt and most unjust meeting ever held in human History

*5) A meeting For Destruction*

Primarily the Sanhedrin was convened for selfish purpose, to put an end to Jesus 

The basic agenda of the meeting was destruction and not any good or great things 

The Sanhedrin judged a innocent man with no proper proofs, violating all the rules and basic norms 

Such a meeting results in the destruction of many good and beautiful things 

That is why it becomes a most deadliest meeting ever held in the History

Am I part of Such meeting, which are happening even today at different levels? 

How do I challenge such things, when they are happening in our own surrounding?? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The power of the Good Works

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fifth Week: Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 10:31-42*

*First Reading :Jer 20:10-13*

*The power of the Good Works*

*1) Jesus on Good Works*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus speaks about the good works 

During His public ministry, Jesus had done lots of Good works 

So he is challenging the crowd to judge his identity on the Good works and not on mere appearance

*2) No one has the authority to punish for doing Good*

In today's Gospel Jesus is asking *“I have shown you many good works from my Father. For which of these are you trying to stone me?”*

Then the Jews say *“We are not stoning you for a good work*

This also shows that no one can punish another person for doing good works 

*3) Good Works shows our real identity*

Jesus says in John

*believe the works, so that you may realize and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.”*

In this particular phrase the idea of real identity of the person and the mission of the person is seen

Good works not only gives the real identity of the person, but it also shows the way to Jesus and the Heavenly Father

*4) Good works are connected to the Three worlds*

*God*: The good work first connects us to God

Since every good work is coming from God, it aslo shows the real identity of God 

*Neighbours*

Good works also connects to the family members and other. 

Our good works shows who are our neighbours

*One self* 

 

Good works also connects one to His own conscience

One can evaluate, ones own good works and how they are effective

*5)  How about my Good Works?*

Do they help me in one way or the other, to give the real identity of myself? 

What are the good works I have in my life?

Do they proclaim, the message of the of the Gospel through the good works 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The verbal abuse and Physical attack on Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fifth Week: Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 8:51-59*

*First Reading : Gn 17:3-9*

*The verbal abuse and Physical attack on Jesus*

*1) The reaction of Jews towards Jesus*

The Gospel of the day,  presents to us the reaction of Jews towards Jesus 

This reaction can be analyzed in two levels 

The verbal abuse by the people 

The planing of physical attack on Jesus 

*2) The Verbal abuse*

The conversation between Jesus and Jews clearly shows the verbal abuse of Jews towards Jesus 

Their abuses can be listed in the following way 

*Now we are sure that you are possessed.*

*Are you greater than ourf ather Abraham, who died? Or the prophets, who died?*

*Who do you make yourself out to be?”*

*You are not yet fifty years old and you have seen Abraham?”*

These are the words which are used by the Jews to abuse Jesus and His divinity through verbal abuse 

*3) Physical attack*

The final narration in the Gospel shows us that, people were ready to attack Jesus even physically 

*So they picked up stones to throw at him;*

This shows that people were ready to attack, physically

*4) Verbal abuse and Physical attack*

These are the two powerful methods which are used threaten the followers of Jesus 

The verbal abuse and the physical attacks on the followers of Jesus are on rise in today's context 

Verbal abuse, makes the life of the person, difficult and challenging

Verbal abuse degrads the morale of the person and confidence to do any particular work 

*5) The Reaction of Jesus*

With regard to the verbal abuse, Jesus was trying to give the correct version of the reality. But then the Jews were not ready to accept the opinion of Jesus 

With regard to the physical attack, the Gospel says *So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid and went out of the temple area.*

As a self defense method, Jesus hid himself from the Crowd and went out of the Temple

So it is very clear, when there is a situation of physical attack we need to hid ourselves from the situation

Unnecessarily we need not allow ourselves to be attacked by others 

If there is a need we need to be ready even to sacrifice our life

*6) The physical attack and Jesus*

First of all Jesus hid himself from the attack 

Secondly Jesus didn't takr the revenge on those people who wanted to attack Jesus physically

How do we manage the situations of Physical attack? 

*7) The Stones*

Jews picked up various stones to throw at Jesus 

They were not only external material stones, but it included much more than the physical material reality 

This stones had, 

The stone of  anger,

The stone of hatred, 

The stone of jealousy, 

The stone of revenge

The stone of greed

The stone of division 

What are the various stones which are thrown towards me? 

What are the stones which I throw at others? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Abraham's Children should do what he did. Disciples of Jesus should do what Jesus did

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fifth Week: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 8:31-42*

*First Reading : Dn 3:14-20, 91-92, 95*

*Abraham's Children should do what he did. Disciples of Jesus should do what Jesus did*

*1) Abraham's Children and Works of Abraham*

The Gospel of the day speaks about Abraham, His children and their mission 

Jesus clearly says that one who claims that he/she is the descendants of Abraham, one has to do what he did 

One who claims that one is descendants of Abraham and does contrary to the works of Abraham, can never become the descendants of Abraham

*2) The disciples of Jesus*

All of us claim that we are the disciples of Jesus

Without any inhibition we claim that we are followers of Jesus 

If so, the same logic applies to us also. We should do what Jesus did 

*3) The Works of Jesus*

Jesus' main work can be summarised in the following way 

Fight against devil and sin 

Fight against hypocrisy

Fight against pride and arrogance

Fight against unjust policies

Fight against injustice 

The mission of forgiveness

The mission of sacrifice

The mission of service

The mission of accepting suffering 

The mission of love 

The mission of self-sacrifice

The mission of humility 

The mission of truthfulness 

*4) The Work of Jesus in my life*

Do I attempt to carry out the works of Jesus? 

Do I fight against the devil and his kingdom? 

Which are the works of Jesus I am familiar with? 

What are the hurdles which block the mission of Jesus in my life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The lessons from the Silence of Joseph

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Solemnity of St Joseph : March 19*

*Gospel : Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a*

*First Reading : 2 Sm 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16*

*SECOND READING - Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22*

*The lessons from the Silence of Joseph*

*1) The Silent Joseph*

This could be one of the titles of St Joseph

At times St Joseph appears as silent in many scenes

Joseph hardly spoke anything and Gospel does not record even a single spoken word about Joseph 

So among all the saint St Joseph is the Most silent yet very powerful saint 

*2) Silence and the Will of God*

Only those who are silent can listen to the voice of God 

St Joseph is depicted as one of the saints who listen the voice of God, understood well and he was able to execute the plans of God in a perfect way 

The silence of Joseph has helped him to listen to God, understand His will and to work accordingly 

*3) Silence and His own conscience*

The Gospel says *He was a righteous man, He was just man*

One is able to become righteous and just person only by listening to ones conscience

The person who does not listen to the conscience can not become a righteous or just person 

In order to listen to the conscience, one has to remain silent. So the silence of Joseph helped him to listen to his conscience

*4) Silence and the Family Life*

The silence of Joseph helped him to accept Mary, without questioning anything about the mysterious plan of God in her Life 

The silence of Joseph helped him to understand Mary and Jesus in a perfect way 

The silence of Joseph helped him to carry out the responsibility of the family in a peaceful way 

The silence of Joseph helped him to avoid all the arguments and all the misunderstanding

*5) Silence and the peaceful life*

Joseph never fought with anyone with anger 

Joseph had a very challenging yet peaceful life 

At the end of the day he had the satisfaction of family life and carrying out the plan of God

This was possible only because of His silence 

*6) Silence is threatening*

Today silence means a great threat 

In the noise filled world of today silence has lost its value 

For many silence has become fearful, threatening and scary

Many can't face silence because it speaks to oneself about ones own life 

*7) Silence Shows who we are?*

Silence is the reflection of the person 

Only a integrated person  able is to manage the silence,  in an effective way 

Silence in life shows the our moral standard 

One who is unable to handle silence in life, shows the degradation of the  moral standard of the person 

Therefore silence is the reflection of the person

How do I manage silence in life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

From Where I come from, and Where I am going

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fifth Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 8:12-20*

*First Reading : Dn 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62*

*From Where I come from, and Where I am going*

*1) Fundamental Question*

In philosophy these are called fundamental questions 

No one can ignore these questions, because they define our life, our existence and purpose of life 

At certain moment in life, every one asks these questions in order to reflect about ones own life 

*2) Answers to these questions*

These questions are not very easy to answer 

Even today no one can clearly answer these questions. 

Therefore these questions belong to the group of mystery, which have no proper answer 

*3) Jesus knew answers to these questions*

In the Gospel of the day, Jesus addresses these questions and he  clearly tells us that *I know where I came from and where I am going.*

This is something spectacular about the life of Jesus 

Clarity about these questions shows the purpose of ones life 

*4) These Questions change our perspective*

This is the truth. The moment we ask these questions in a serious way about our own life, our perspective about life changes 

Our attitude changes 

Our rationale changes 

Our approach to life changes

Our behavior changes 

Our thinking pattern changes

Above all our life changes. So these are very powerful questions 

*5) Knowledge about these questions*

The moment we know about Jesus automatically we get an answer to these questions 

So answers to these questions depends on our understanding about Jesus 

If we know from where Jesus has come, then we also know where we have come from 

If we know where Jesus is going, then we also know where we are going 

In and through Jesus we have an answer for every fundamental questions of our life 

*6) What about my life?*

In and through Jesus we can boldly say that we have come from God

Jesus has gone to the Heavenly Father. So we also will go to heavenly Father 

So we can say that we are going to the heavenly Father

Have I ever asked these questions about my own life? 

What is my answer??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do you Wish to see Jesus?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fifth Week: Sunday*

*Gospel :Jn 12:20-33*

*First Reading : Jer 31:31-34*

*SECOND READING - Heb 5:7-9*

*Do you Wish to see Jesus?*

*1) Greeks wanted to see Jesus*

The term “Greek” is a term that often means simply a gentile. 

There were Greeks in the land in Decapolis, and it’s possible that these were truly Greeks but it is likely that they were simply gentiles and this is the term for them. 

St Paul says that in Christ there’s neither male nor female, Jew nor Greek, and by that he means when he says “Greek”, Gentile. 

These, evidently were what were called in those days God-fearers. They appreciated Judaism, they appreciated its monotheism, they appreciated the purity of its teaching but they themselves were not convinced enough to become proselytes by circumcision.

So these are the Greeks who came to see Jesus 

*2) Importance of the desire to see Jesus*

The desire to see Jesus is very important because, that becomes a starting point of ones spiritual journey 

When one has the desire definitely can serach for Jesus and the person will find Jesus 

Desire to see Jesus changes the orientation of ones life 

*3) There are people and Sources to see Jesus*

One who is in serach of Jesus there are many people or resources which will help in our attempt 

Greeks were in serach of Jesus and Andrew and Philip helped them in thier journey 

Our efforts to see Jesus never goes in vain. Always there will be people who will help us in our effort 

*4) Greeks wanted to see Jesus But others?*

Very interestingly, Greeks are in serach of Jesus. They wanted to see Jesus 

Where as his own people, religious leaders and Pharisees were not ready to accept Jesus as the Son of God, the promised Messiah

*Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him.* John 12:37

This shows the contrast between the Greeks so called gentiles and the Jews

*5) The Greeks has special reference to the Entire World*

The concept *Greeks* is referring to the entire Gentile world

At the birth of Jesus Magi from east came in serach of Him 

Now Greeks are in serach of Jesus 

After the resurrection, St Paul went into the Gentile world to proclaim about Jesus 

So Greeks include the entire World and Jesus will redeem them through his passion, death and resurrection

*6) The World has gone after Him*

John 12:9 *So the Pharisees said to one another, “You see that you are gaining nothing. Look, the world has gone after him.*

With Greeks searching for Jesus it becomes very clear that, other than Jews people are searching for him 

So, what the Pharisee say about Jesus becomes true. In fact the entire world is under the search of Jesus 

Today there are many Greeks who serach for Jesus. *The world has gone after him*

*7) How about my desire to see Jesus?*

What is the level of vigour I have to see Jesus? 

Does it create any interest in me when I feel, that I need to see Jesus? 

What are the channels which I use to see Jesus??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Six Reactions from the Crowd

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fourth Week: Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 7:40-53*

*First Reading : Jer 11:18-20*

*Six Reactions from the Crowd*

*1) The Crowd*

Crowd plays  a very important role in everything

At times it is the crowd which decides everything

When Jesus was in Jerusalem, there was a huge crowd, which has gathered for the Passover feast 

So, this crowd has different reactions towards Jesus and His ministry  

*2) “This is truly the Prophet.”*

One group among the Crowd was of the opinion that, Jesus was a great Prophet 

They saw all the qualities of a prophet in Jesus 

Infact Jesus was a great prophet, or we can say that Jesus was more than a prophet

*3) “This is the Christ.”*

Another group was of the opinion that Jesus is the Christ

In fact this is the real and correct identity of Jesus 

Jesus is the Christ, the promised Messiah and the Only saviour of the World 

It is true that in the Crowd, there are also people who will perceive the things in a perfect way 

*4) Negative reaction*

This is the another group which was of the opinion that Christ will not come from Galilee. But he has to come from David's family and from Bethlehem

This crowd is not ready to verify the facts. But cling on to the information what they thing right 

As a result, they are not able to understand what was the reality

*5) Group who wanted to arrest and Kill Jesus*

This is another group in the big crowd 

This group only found fault with Jesus and had developed a hostile attitude towards Jesus 

When Jesus challenged thier hypocrisy, they became angry. Therefore they wanted to arrest and kill him 

*6) Guards*

Guards also form the part of the Group

They were sent by the authority to arrest Jesus 

The Guards, in fact don't know the ground reality. They do their duty because of thr  order from above 

The Guard who came to arrest Jesus went back without arresting Him. Because they saw something unsusl in Jesus 

About this when the authorities, they said their experience and greatness of Jesus 

*7) The Pharisees*

This is the working group behind, which plans everything for the bigger crowd 

Basically they are frightened about losing their authority, power, and influence

Therefore they try different methods to eliminate all those who challenge them 

This group has the capacity to use the crowd as they want 

This group because of thier power, they can do either good or bad 

*8) My Group*

In any situation this is the normal reaction, from the Crowd, towards a particular person 

Even today the same logic is followed in the walk of our life 

I am also the part of the Crowd. If so what is my response or my responsibility???

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do you know where he is from?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fourth Week: Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 7:1-2, 10, 25-30*

*First Reading : Wis 2:1a, 12-22*

*Do you know where he is from?*

*1) We know where is he from?*

Now, Jesus is in the temple, in Jerusalem

The feast of the tabernacle was near. Many people had come to participate in the feast 

When they saw Jesus in the temple, their spontaneous response was *But we know where he is from.*

But the question is, did they really know Jesus? 

Was their knowledge about Jesus incomplete, wrong or casual? 

*2) Their knowledge was very superficial*

They identified Jesus with a particular place 

They understood Jesus as the son of a carpenter and Mary 

They thought nothing greater can come from Galilee

They saw Jesus as one among themselves

Some said, He worked miracles because of the power of Beelzebul

So thier understanding of Jesus was very faulty 

*3) Divine Qualities of Jesus*

Jesus was the Son of God 

Jesus was the second person of the Trinity

Jesus was born of the power of the Holy Spirit

Jesus was the savior of all 

Jesus was the Messiah

Jesus was the miracle worker

Jesus was the divine healer 

Jesus was the high priest 

The people never realised these things and were not ready to accept Jesus as the Son of God

*4) I know everything attitude*

Those people were suffering from I know everything syndrome

When some one suffers from such a syndrome, there is no place for leaning new things 

No growth takes place, no creativity, no life and no suspense

This attitude is very dangerous for growth 

*5) Obstacle for Spiritual growth*

For those people the above attitude became an obstacle, to grow spiritually

It was an obstacle for them to grow in divine intimacy 

In this context our relationship remains only at the superficial level and hardly any growth takes place 

*6) My Life*

How about my life? 

Do I suffer from *I know everything syndrome?*

How deep is my relationship with Jesus? Is it only at the superficial level? 

Lent is a special time to deepn our relationship with Jesus 

What are the obstacles I face in the journey of deepening my relationship with Jesus?

*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 to have life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fourth Week: Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 5:31-47*

*First Reading : Ex 32:7-14*

*Come to me to have life*

*1) Invitation of Jesus*

In today's Gospel we have a special invitation by Jesus to remain in the intimacy of the Lord to have life 

Since Jews were unwilling to accept Him as the Lord, the Son of the Father, and the Messiah, Jesus gives them different examples to convince them about his identity 

Finally he extends his invitation to all, through which one can have life and eternal life 

*2) Lent is a special time to accept the invitation*

During the season of lent our disposition is one of reflecting about the mission, passion and the death of Jesus

 During this time, the invitation becomes so meaningful and effective in our life, to accept Jesus in our life 

All those who accept the invitation of Jesus, experience the divine intimacy of the Lord

*3) Why Jesus Invites Us?*

The primary purpose of his invitation to become his genuine followers

Secondly to know about the heavenly Father and the relationship between the Father and Son 

Thirdly to have life, life in abundance, which culminates I eternal life 

*4) Jesus' Invitation includes the Following things*

Jesus invites us to know his real identity

Jesus invites us to remain in his relationship

Jesus invites us to change our sinful life 

Jesus invites us to bear witness to the truth 

Jesus invites us to proclaim the good news 

Jesus invites us to accept Jesus as the Messiah

Jesus invites us to live a simple life 

Jesus invites us to destroy the evil things 

Jesus invites us to love one another 

*5) What Jesus' invitation means to me?*

Jesus' invitation is very clear and open to all 

He does not force on any one, but invites to everyone of us 

How do I respond to the invitation of the Lord? 

Do I make efforts to come to Jesus? 

Do I realise the importance of coming to Jesus? 

*6) Various ways to respond to the invitation of Jesus*

Reading of the scriptures

Sacrament of reconciliation in particular

Living the Gospel values in our life 

Serving the needy 

Remaining faithful to our prayer life 

Trying to do our level best in doing mission of the Lord 

Let the invitation of Jesus, change our life effectively

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Lent is a time to hear the voice of the Son of God and to come out of the tomb of Sin

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fourth Week: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 5:17-30*

*First Reading : Is 49:8-15*

*Lent is a time to hear the voice of the Son of God and to come out of the tomb of Sin*

*1) The Hour is Coming to rise from the tomb*

The Gospel of the day has a special reference to the time in which all those people who are in the tomb will rise at the voice of the Son of Man 

In the context, it is applicable to the passion death and resurrection of Jesus, which will bring about the resurrection of all those who believe in the Son of Man 

At the same time *The Hour* also has special significance to the season of Lent  

*2) Season of Lent is THE HOUR*

Lent is a speacil time to hear the voice of the Lord 

Through Prayer, meditation, way of the Cross, Reading of the Bible and various other Spiritual exercises help us to hear the voice of the Lord 

So lent is a special time to Hear the voice of the Lord

*3) Rising from the Tomb*

As a result of hearing the voice of the Lord, all those who are in the Tomb will rise again to experience the intimacy with the Lord 

Rising from the Tomb, has a special significance to our spiritual life, during this season of Lent 

The revival of the spiritual life during the lent could be connected to the rising from the tomb 

*4) The tragedy  of life in the Tomb*

We often live in the tomb, even though we are physically alive 

The various types of tomb which make us lifeless could be following

The tomb of sin 

The tomb of pride

The tomb of Jealousy

The tomb of selfishness

The tomb of revenge

The tomb of greed

The tomb of addition

The tomb of anger 

The tomb of lies 

The tomb of gossip

The tomb of narrow mindedness

The tomb of indifference

The tomb of alcohol

The tomb of drugs 

The tomb of cheating

The tomb of attachment to wealth, money, power, position, authority etc 

*5) Am I able to come out from the Tomb of Sin?*

Two things are necessary to come out from the tomb 

*First : Listening to the Voice of the Son of God* Gospel are the Sources of it 

*Secondly : We must try to do good* Good deeds are very much needed. 

Jesus says *those who have done good deeds will rise  to the resurrection of life*

So, am I ready?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus, pool of Bethesda, and the man ill for 38 years

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fourth Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 5:1-16*

*First Reading : Ez 47:1-9, 12*

*Jesus, pool of Bethesda, and the man ill for 38 years*

*1) Pool of Bethesda*

The Pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem was where sick people gathered with hopes of being cured of their illnesses. 

The Aramaic word Bethesda means “house of mercy” or “house of grace” in English.

 This pool has five porticos or porches adjacent to the pool, where the ill people waited and watched for an angel to stir the water. 

The hopeful, diseased people at the poolside believed that the first person to step into the water after it was stirred by an angel was healed

*2) Ill  man for 38 years*

He believed in the power of the pool water 

Even after 38 years, he had not lost His hope 

He has been waiting for the opportunity to get into the water 

This pool, kept his desire of becoming well alive 

His hope of becoming well was much dependent on the pool and the things that will take place in the pool 

*3) Jesus the Divine Healer*

When Jesus comes to the vicinity of the pool, he sees this ill man who was suffering for 38 years 

Jesus asks this person *“Do you want to be well?”*

The man then says about the story of the pool and his desire to get into the water 

It appears that this person was fully depended on the pool and water 

Jesus heals the person not with pool water by the power of His Word

*4) Where is my faith*

Is my faith fully depended on the external things?

Just like the Ill  man had trust in the pool water? 

Finally the man was healed by Jesus with His powerful words. 

Where do I keep my trust? Is it  in the material things or spiritual things?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Lord, Come into my life before the Spiritual things Die

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fourth Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 4:43-54*

*First Reading : Is 65:17-21*

*Lord, Come into my life before the Spiritual things Die*

*1) “Sir, come down before my child dies.”*

The Gospel of the day hsa a special prayer by the Royal official 

He had full confidence in Jesus, that's why he comes and begs with Jesus with these words *“Sir, come down before my child dies.”*

It is a prayer, which has deep significance in the life of Royal official and it also has special significance to our life 

*2) Come into my life before my hope dies*

Every day we need to pray to Jesus with regard to hope

When hope is not there then nothing remains. Life becomes absurd

So we need Jesus to revive our hope 

*3)Come into my life before my repentent heart dies*

Repentance is the first aspect of Jesus' ministry

No change unless there is repentance

Jesus please come into my life before the repentant heart dies within me 

*4) Come into my life before my hark work dies*

One can not come up in life, unless one does hard work. 

There is no short cut for hard work 

If harwork dies then one becomes lazy and useless 

Let Jesus come into our life, before our hard  work dies 

*5) Come into life before my humility dies*

Humility is very difficult to practice 

Without humility there is no success 

Pride destroys our life. So we need Jesus to practice the virtue of humility

*6) Come into my life before my forgiveness dies*

The death of the forgiveness makes a person, arrogant, revengeful, deceitful, and evil 

Forgiveness is the foundation for new life and strengthening the relationship

Jesus come into my life before my forgiveness dies 

*8) The Change at the prayer*

The Royal official requested Jesus to come 

His word came to the house and child was blessed with good heath

The faith of the Royal official was another important aspect here 

What about my prayer? Jesus' words and body and blood comes into my life. 

What is the effect? Is there a change. If the faith is strong, prayer becomes effective. If not, nothing happens

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus is the Light who shows many things

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Fourth Week: Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 3:14-21*

*First Reading : 2 Chr 36:14-16, 19-23*

*SECOND READING -Eph 2:4-10*

*Jesus is the Light who shows many things*

*1) Jesus is the Light*

In the Gospel of John we see Jesus as light 

Jesus says *“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”* John 8:12

Light always shines in the darkness

Light shows the way 

Light brightens the life, brings happiness, joy, and creativity

*2) Jesus is the Light who shows Heavenly Father*

Jesus is the light. In this light we see many things 

First of all, in and through Jesus we see Heavenly Father

That's why Jesus says, whoever has seen me, He/she has seen Father

*Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father* John 14:9

*3) Jesus is the Light who shows what is love*

Jesus is Love and as light, Jesus  Shows what is real Love 

Real love is unconditional. 

Real love is sacrificial

Real love is forgiving

Real love is seen in service

All these things are visible, in Jesus who is light 

*4) Jesus is the Light who shows the Forgiveness*

Jesus who is light, who shows what is real forgiveness

During the public ministry Jesus forgave the adulterous woman, Mary Magdalene, and many others

In the Cross, Jesus forgave the thief, and gave eternal life 

From the cross Jesus showed how to forgive ones enemies

Jesus means forgiveness, which is clearly seen 

*5) Jesus is the Light who shows the sacrifice*

In and through Jesus, sacrifice is clearly seen

Jesus means sacrifice, which is clearly seen in the Cross

Jesus the Light shows what is real sacrifice 

*6) Jesus is the Light who shows what is Humility*

Humility is another name of Jesus 

Jesus the light shows what is real humility

He humbled himself, till the end on the Cross

*7) Jesus is the light who shows the Service*

Jesus is known for service. 

By washing the feet of the disciples, Jesus showed what is real service

Jesus the light shows the importance of service, which is the integral part of Christian Spirituality

*8) Am I able to see?*

Jesus the Light shines all the time, who shows many things 

But the question is am I able to see the various important things in the life of Jesus 

Is the light of Jesus sines in my life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The problem of the Pharisee

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 18:9-14*

*First Reading : Hos 6:1-6*

*The problem of the Pharisee*

*1) The problem of self-righteousness*

The Pharisee was over confident about his self righteousness

He is of the opinion that, he is right in everything and there no weakness in him 

He is superior than anyone else and there is no equal to him, in his society

*2) There is no dialogue with God*

The Pharisee is not in a position to listen to God 

He only speaks to God about his own greatness and achievements 

There is only monologue and there is no dialogue in his prayer 

*3) The Problem of Ego "I"*

In the approach of the Pharisee, the ego or *I* problem is very much seen 

All his sentences starts with *I*

I thank you

I am not like the rest of humanity

I am not greedy,

I am not dishonest

I am not adulterous

I am not like this tax collector.

I fast twice a week,

I pay tithes on my whole income.’

This *I* problem was bigger than anything else 

*4) Others are Sinners*

One side he considers himself as righteous person 

On the other side he considers others are sinners, adulterous, dishonest, greedy, selfish 

So others are all sinners. Only I am good. Such an attitude is very dangerous and disgraceful for oneself

*5) Wrong perception about Himself*

The Pharisee thought that he is good before God and God is pleased with such persons 

His perception is totally wrong. 

But the sad part of the story is that, the Pharisee is not able to realise that his perception about himself and others is biased and totally wrong 

Such an attitude ruins ones life and life becomes meaningless

*6) How about my Life?*

Who is resembling in my life? 

Pharisee or the tax collector? 

Am I suffering from the pharisaic syndrome, which is nothing but a hypocrisy? 

What about the simplicity and genuine attitude of the tax collector?

Am I ready to adopt the methodology of the tax collector??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Two wings of the Great Commandment

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Friday*

*Gospel : 12:28-34*

*First Reading : Hos 14:2-10*

*Two wings of the Great Commandment*

*1) Importance of the Two wings*

All birds have two wings. We don't find a bird with one wing. One winged bird can't fly at any cost 

Aeroplane has two wings. If both the wings are in proper condition it can fly. If one of the wings has problem it can't fly or while flying if one of the wings stops working, the whole plane comes down 

This shows the importance of both the wings 

*2) One Commandment with two wings*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the great and first  commandment

It speaks about two important things *Love of God and Love of the Neighbor*

Jesus presents this two things as part of one reality 

In other words, these are two wings of Christian spirituality 

The Bird of Christian spirituality has two wings. They are the Love of God and Love of Neighbor

*3) The tragedy of one winged Spirituality*

There is great temptation to follow the one winged spirituality in following the great commandment

Many have no issues when it comes to love God with all ones heart, mind, soul and strength 

But many have issues to Love the neighbor with all ones heart, mind, soul and strength

So it becomes a one winged spirituality, which can't perform anything in reality 

*4) Lent is a time to check our Wings*

During the season of lent we reflect lot many things in attaining the holiness and perfection 

In this regard, first of all we need to reflect about these two wings which are very necessary and important to grow in our life 

If we don't pay attention to these things, and if we do many other things, it has no effect at any cost 

So in order to move forward in our Christian spirituality we need both these wings 

*5) The hypocrisy of one winged spirituality*

Many people, exploit the neighbor in various context 

But when it comes to the holy places, spiritual things they are in forefront, either doing the services or in contribution 

This becomes a one winged spirituality, which has no effect 

One needs to be very careful with regard to the hypocrisy one winged spirituality

*6) How about my life?*

How do I practice the greatest commandment of the Lord? 

Do I follow the one wing methodology? 

Are these two wings have lost their balance in my life? 

Am I depending on one wing to fly or to grow in various ways? 

Have a idealised that both these wings are very necessary for my life and growth? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The significance of the Finger of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:14-23*

*First Reading : Jer 7:23-28*

*The significance of the Finger of God*

*1) Finger of God and the Third plague*

For the first time we hear about the finger of God in Exodus 8:19 

In this context the magicians of the  king Pharaoh, tell him about the Third plague 

They said *This is the Finger of God* which is responsible for this plague 

In a way that the magicians are accepting the defeat before the Finger of God and God's power 

*2) Finger of God and the Ten commandments*

The book of Exodus makes a second reference to the Finger of God in Ex 31:18

Here it is in the context of Writing the 10 commandments

*When the Lord finished speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the covenant law, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God.*

*3) Finger of God and Casting out demons*

In the New Testament we see Jesus is casting out demons 

Here once again it is highlighted that *By the finger of God he drives out the demons*

Once again it shows the power of God and His fight against the devil 

*4) Moses and New Moses*

There is a close connection between Moses and Jesus who is the New Moses of New Israel 

Moses acknowledged the power of God while liberating the people from the slavery of Pharaoh

The New Moses, Jesus is also showing the Power of God, while liberating the people from the slavery of Satan 

Finger of God shows the Power of God

*5) Strong Man*

The Gospel also makes a reference to the Strong man who can attack the enemy

The strong man in today's Gospel referred by Jesus highlights the importance of the finger of God 

The Gospel shows that the strong man is none other than God, who is represented by the Finger of God  

*6) The Finger of God Shows greater Things*

The finger of God shows the beginning of God's reign

Later it grows into the hand and then to arm 

Therefore Ezekiel wrote, that the *mighty hand and outstretched arm* will again save the faithful remnant of Jews.

When Jesus says about the Finger of God, it highlights the immediacy of the establishment of God's kingdom

The progression of power starts with the finger, the hand, and then the arm. The visible theocratic Kingdom of God was subsequently established through the "mighty hand and outstretched arm" of God.

*7) Finger of God in my Life*

Moses accepted the power of the finger of the Lord. He became a great person in the sight of God 

Jesus shows the importance of the finger of God, which is compares to a strong man 

How about the Finger of God in my Life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Primary Duty of the Followers of Jesus : To observe and to teach the commandments

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:17-19*

*First Reading : Dt 4:1, 5-9*

*The Primary Duty of the Followers of Jesus : To observe and to teach the commandments*

*1) Who is great in the Kingdom of Heaven?*

The Gospel of the day has this particular question and as well as the answer 

It says, *"whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.”*

This shows the importance of the commandments of the Lord 

*2) The Commandments of the Lord*

In the Old Testament we have 10 commandments which were given by the Lord, on Mount Sinai to Moses 

Observing these commandments and teaching them to others is one of the primary duties of a Christian

Through which we can become great in the kingdom of Heaven

*3) Simplification of the Commandments by Jesus*

In the New Testament, Jesus simplifies all the commandments and gives us the following understanding

*A) Love and teach others to Love*

This is one of the most powerful aspects of the commandments of the Lord 

Love as Jesus loved. Unconditional, sacrificial, self-emptying love, which needs total commitment

*B) Forgive and teach others to Forgive*

This is the highlight of Jesus' ministry and teaching 

Forgiveness can't be disconnected from Christian spirituality

*C) Serve and teach others to serve*

Service is the foundation of Jesus' spirituality and kernel of the commandments

Through service one can share ones life with others for the greater glory of God

*D) Bear witness and teach others to Witness*

We need to bear witness through our life and ministry. 

Observing the values of Christ will help us to bear witness to Christ and we need to teach the same to others 

*E) Pray and teach others to pray*

A follower of Jesus can't survive with out prayer. 

First of all one needs to pray of lot and teach others to pray as well 

*F) Suffering and teaching others to endure suffering*

Suffering is the part of Christian life. One has to suffer for the sake of Jesus 

Teaching others how to endure suffering is also very important 

*4) Opportunity to become great in the Kingdom of Heaven*

There are number of opportunities to become great in the Kingdom of heaven 

Becoming great in the kingdom of heaven is the primary purpose of our life 

By observing and teaching others the above mentioned things one can become great in the kingdom of Heaven 

If so, am I ready to become great in the kingdom of heaven? 

Am I ready to follow the path of greatness in heaven, which is demanding and challenging? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

When God given goodness, is not Shared will be taken Away

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 18:21-35*

*First Reading : Dn 3:25, 34-43*

*When God given goodness, is not Shared will be taken Away*

*1) The debtor of the Master*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a debtor, who owed a huge amount of money to the Master 

Therefore the master ordered to sell all his property including  his wife, his children, in payment of the debt.

At this point the debtor begged for some more time from the Master, for the repayment of the debt

The Compassionate master allowed the debtor to have some more time in repayment of the debt

*2) The Fellow friend of the Debtor*

The Gospel also shows another person who was the friend this debtor 

His friend had a small amount to this debtor of the master

When the debtor insisted to pay, he also begged for some more time for the repayment

But this debtor didn't agree for the time. Instead, he ill treated his fellow being and put him in prison until he paid, whatever he owed to the debtor of the Master  

*3) Severe Punishment to the Debtor*

When the master came to know the ill treatment of his debtor, he called the debtor, and cancelled all the privileges given by the master to the debtor

At the same time, the Master ordered that the debtor should be put in prison until he pays the full amount without any concession

So the Master gave heavy punishment, to His debtor for failing to treat his fellow being with respect and dignity

*4) The debtor lost everything*

In the beginning the debtor enjoyed every facility from the Master in spite of his huge debt, because of the Goodness of the Master 

But when he failed to use the same goodness, towards His fellow being, by not showing any mercy to his fellow being the Master withdrew all the benefits which were previously given to the debtor 

Since he failed to share with others, the Good things which he received from the Master, he lost everything and finally landed into deep trouble 

*5) Unshared Goodness is simply lost*

The debtor didn't take any interest to share the goodness which he received from the Master with his fellow being 

Within no time the debtor lost all he had, landed into prison 

Good things, which are not shared will be simply lost 

Good things which are shared with others will be multiplied without any measure 

*6) How about my Life?*

Am I using the God given wealth for my selfish purpose? 

Am I using the double standard policy, while receiving the favours and while sharing the favours? 

Am I greedy and selfish person in using the privileges with out sharing with others 

Good things which are not used for service and good things which are not shared can't even remain with us 

It will be taken away from us and we will land into deep trouble

If so, what is my response??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Naaman, Leprosy and God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 4:24-30*

*First Reading : 2 Kgs 5:1-15ab*

*Naaman, Leprosy and God*

*1) Naaman the Powerful Man*

The first reading of the day speaks about the caliber of Naaman 

Naaman, was the army commander of the king of Aram

He was highly esteemed and respected by his master,

He played a very important role in bringing the victory to Aram.

He was vert valiant, it means he was very courageous

This shows the power of Naaman

*2) The Sickness of Naaman*

Even through he was so powerful, he was suffering from leprosy

Because of this sickness, he had become helpless, in spite of his powerful position 

His powerful position didn't help him in any way in getting rid of his leprosy 

This incident clearly shows us, when sickness comes, no position helps us. One has to face the sickness by all means 

*3) Cure of the Leprosy*

Naaman the leper finally learns from the servant Girl about the prophet and the God of Israel

Since Naaman knew that nothing works for his leprosy, he wanted to try the divine assistance in handling his sickness

That is how he comes to the Prophet, with the guidance of the slave girl and presents himself to the prophet

When Prophet told him to take bath in the river Jordan, he was cured 

He praised God of Israel for this great Healing

*4) God is the source of all good things*

From the incident of Naaman it is very clear that without God one can do nothing 

So he finally came to meet the prophet and to get rid of his leprosy

Some times no power on earth will save us. But in such a situation asking God's grace and facing the situation, with the grace of God would become meaningful 

God is the source of all good things. Naaman also experienced the same 

*5) God can't be replaced*

There is a strong tendency in today's world to replace God with science and other things 

But the incident of Naaman clearly shows us, God can't be replaced with anything 

Instead God is the climax of everything in life 

There is no challenge for God's power 

*6) How about my Life?*

Do I depend on my muscle power? 

Do I depend of my material strength? 

Do I depend on power, position, influence, wealth and so on? 

Do I depend on God? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The need of Cleansing the Temple

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 2:13-25*

*First Reading : Ex 20:1-17*

*SECOND READING - 1 Cor 1:22-25*

*The need of Cleansing the Temple*

*1) Jesus cleans the temple*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the cleansing of the Temple 

Temple is primarily meant for prayer and to have God experience 

When the temple becomes the place of business, it loses its significance and its value 

When Jesus entered the temple He saw a scene where the temple needed a thorough cleansing because, it had lost its value 

So finally Jesus cleans the temple and restores its original dignity for God experience

*2) Lent is a special  time for cleansing*

We are in the third Sunday of Lent 

Lent has a special significance for cleansing the temple and oneself 

All our spiritual activities highlight the importance of cleansing our life and our surroundings 

A place or a life, which is not clean or filled with dirty things can't be used for any purpose 

So this Lenten season calls us for cleansing our life 

*3) Temple of the Holy Spirit*

St Paul beautifully highlights the importance of our life 

He says *Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit* 1Cor 6:19

So our life is like a Holy Temple, in which the presence of God is very much Found 

But the Question is, *Is my life still a temple of the Holy Spirit?*

Do I need any form of cleansing? 

Is there anything in my life that has to be removed? 

Cleansing of the Temple definitely has a direct reference for cleansing of our own life 

*4) Life as a market place?*

The cleansing of the temple also draws our attention to the market place 

In this context, our life at times may become  a market place 

When God given talents, skills, physical strength, knowledge, wisdom, intelligence and courage is used for purely making money and not for service, life becomes a market place 

All of us should be aware of this tendency in us 

*5) Importance of the Service*

God has given this life to serve one another

The primary purpose of our life to Love God and our neighbor thorough service. If there is no service in our life, there is no meaning for our life 

We become the temple of the Holy Spirit through Service and not by business  

*6) Need of Cleansing*

There are many areas which need cleansing. Without which our life becomes meaningless

If so, which are the areas, really need the divine cleansing? 

Sacrament of reconciliation is the powerful tool to cleanse our life, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit 

May cleansing of our life, facilitate Jesus to dwell in our lives

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Second Week: Saturday*

*Gospel : Lk 15:1-3, 11-32*

*First Reading : Mi 7:14-15, 18-20*

*I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him*

*1) The Crime of Refusing to get Up*

“Failure is not falling down but refusing to get up.” Chinese proverb. 

This particular proverb shows us how our attitude with the failure should be 

Failure is one of the many aspects of our life. Need to take it in a right spirit

The moment one gives up the effort to get up, that itself becomes the end of every effort

*2) Prodigal Son got up*

The parable of the prodigal son has a beautiful turning point 

The turning point starts in *when he came to his senses* he began to think about His life 

That made him to get up from his failure and to move the path of success

Finally he was successful 

*3) Lent is a special time to get up*

We are in the season of Lent and, this is a special time of Grace 

Lent is a time to get up from our wrongdoings 

Lent is a time to get from our pride, hypocrisy, duplicity, selfishness, anger, revenge, greed, and from other evil ways 

*4) Getting up, changes our life and direction*

The prodigal son, had totally missed the way

But he determined to get up from the miserable situation in his life 

The prodigal son's getting up, totally changed his life, his perspectives, his attitude, his behavior and other areas as well 

*5) Getting up is a continuous process*

Getting up is not a one time activity

It is a continous action of our life. It also extends to all the areas of our life 

The repetition of this activity *Getting Up* purifes our life, makes us Holy, and guides us in the way of perfection

*6) Getting Up in my Life*

The actions of *Getting Up* extends to all the areas of our life 

So what are the areas I need the action of getting Up? 

I need to get up from my laziness

I need to get up from my hatred 

I need to get up from jealousy

I need to get up from my pride 

I need to get up from my selfishness

I need to get up from my fear 

I need to get up from my comfort zone 

I need to get up from my easy way of life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*