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*