Jesus' invitation : Remain in me, as I remain in you.

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fifth Week :Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 15:4a, 5b*

*First Reading : Acts 9:26-31*

*SECOND READING - 1 Jn 3:18-24*

*Jesus' invitation : Remain in me, as I remain in you.*

*1) Jesus' Invitation*

In the Gospel of the day we have a beautiful and meaningful invitation of Jesus 

The invitation is to remain with Him. 

Remaining with him will help us to experience his divine love and intimacy, which will help us to grow in our relationship with the Lord

*2) Remain in me - Unity*

Jesus gives beautiful example of vine and beaches 

Through this example Jesus highlights the importance of unity between the vine and branch

This is also true with our relationship with Jesus. 

Jesus is the vine and we are the branches

*3) Remain in me - Fruitfulness*

This particular phrase also highlights the importance of fruitfulness. 

When the Branch is united with the vine, it produces the fruit, fruit in abundance

Like wise when we are united in the Lord, we become fruitful disciples of Jesus

*4) Remain in me : Way to salvation*

Remaining with Jesus means, trying to experience the eternal life 

Eternal life is possible only in and through Jesus. By remaining with him, definitely we are moving on the way to salvation. 

So remaining with Jesus is very important for salvation

*5) Remain in me : To serve others*

Jesus says, without me you can do nothing. So in order to carry out the mission of the Lord, one has to remain in Jesus 

Remaining with Jesus will help us to become effective in our mission 

*6) Remain in me : Payers will be answered*

Jesus says *ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you.*

For this one needs to remain in Jesus. When we remain in Jesus and pray for our needs, God grants the favours which we ask from the Lord

*7) How to remain with Jesus?*

By reading the Scriptures

By celebrating the sacraments

By spending time in prayer

By serving others 

By forgiving others 

By loving others 

By sacrificing our life, time, resources for the betterment of others 

Above all, when we practice the Gospel values, when we become the followers of New Testament, when we proclaim about Jesus, we remain in Jesus

Have I remained in Jesus?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Various ways of Knowing Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fourth Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 14:7-14*

*First Reading : Acts 13:44-52*

*Various ways of Knowing Jesus*

*1) If you know me, then you will also know my Father.*

This particular phrase of Jesus calls us to reflect about knowing Jesus 

Unless we know Jesus we can't know the Father 

Unless we know Jesus we can't know the teaching of Jesus 

Unless we know Jesus we can't know about the Cross, the value of suffering, the mystery of death and the eternal life 

So knowing of Jesus is very important

*2) Various ways of knowing Jesus*

*Scripture* One of the best ways to know Jesus. Everything about Jesus is found in the scriptures. So reading, meditating the scriptures will help us to know Jesus better 

*Prayer* Another powerful way to know Jesus. Through prayer we come into the presence of Jesus, which helps us to know Jesus better 

*Gospel Values* These are the Gospel values which were practiced by Jesus. Practicing them will help us to know Jesus in a better way 

Forgiveness

Humility

Service

Love

Simplicity

Sacrifice

Sharing 

Generosity

Truthfulness

Justice 

*3) Great Change in life*

When we look at the lives of the saints one thing is very clear, that is, since they had deep knowledge about Jesus and his teaching they were ready to face anything 

In other words we can say, the knowledge of Jesus transformed their life and they become great saints 

That is the power of knowing Jesus in our life 

*4) My knowledge of Jesus*

What is the level of my knowledge about Jesus? 

Knowledge does not count in terms of intellectual knowledge. Knowledge here consists of the deep spiritual experience of Jesus and the intimacy with the Lord. 

In this context what is my knowledge? How do the knowing of Jesus changes my life? 

*5) What can I do?*

Knowing of Jesus is the priority of my life. 

If so, what are the necessary things I must do, to have deeper knowledge of Jesus? 

Knowing of Jesus will transform our life. Let every action of ours help us to know Jesus more and more. 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Finding the Way in and through Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fourth Week :Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 14:1-6*

*First Reading : Acts 13:26-33*

*Finding the Way in and through Jesus*

*1) Life is a journey, which needs a way*

Life is a journey towards a definite destiny

The destiny of life is to reach to heaven, to experience the eternal life, to live with God and to become one with Him 

This particular journey needs a way. If the way is right then we move in a right direction. If not, then we can't reach the destiny 

*2) I am the Way*

Jesus says in today's Gospel that *He is the Way*

He makes it very clear that He is the way to heaven 

He is the way to the new life 

He is the way to eternal life 

He is the way to have divine experience

So Jesus says *“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”*

Without this way, one can't enter into Eternal life 

*3) Right Direction for Journey*

It is said *It’s better to go slowly in the right direction than go speeding off in the wrong direction.*

Some times people want to achieve things immediately. Such an urgency does not apply to this area. 

Choosing the right direction, and moving towards the goal, will help us to achieve our goal 

*4) The speciality of Jesus' way*

Any one can choose the way of Jesus, which guarantees the definite result and leads one in the right direction

The way of Jesus has the following routes 

The way of love 

The way of forgiveness

The way of humility

The way of service

The way of sacrifice

The way of prayer 

The way of sharing 

The way of simplicity

The way of truthfulness

These are some of the important ways which are very necessary to reach to the goal of our life 

*5) Have I lost my way?*

As a follower of Jesus we are supposed to follow the way of Jesus 

In this context it is very important to ask, whether I have lost my way or am I travelling on the right way? 

What is the way I am using to achieve the goal of my life? 

How can I find my way to travel in a better way?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The mission of picking up serpents with ones hands

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fourth Week :Thursday*

*Feast of St Mark the Evangelist*

*Gospel : Mk 16:15-20*

*First Reading : 1 Pt 5:5b-14*

*The mission of picking up serpents with ones hands*

*1) The serpent in the Hands*

First of all serpent is poisonous and if it bites, life will be in danger 

But the if the same serpent, when it is cought in the hands it cant bite easily. It loses its power to bite 

In other words, serpent in the hands loses its freedom. It is just like a slave. It can perform what is asked of it 

*2) Serpent signifies evil*

In the bible, serpent is always identified with evil things 

In the book of Genesis, Satan comes in the form of serpent. Here serpent is identified with temptor which tempts Eve. 

Satan also tempted Jesus. At times this Satan also shown in the form of serpent

*3) Various things signifies Evil/Satan in our Life*

The excessive greed

Selfishness

Pride 

Revengeful attitude 

Greed for power, authority, pleasure, wealth, money, and worldly things 

Greed for name and fame

Greed for drinks and food 

All these are nothing but the different faces of evil 

*4) Jesus' name to control them*

The world is govern by these evil things 

Left alone to operate, these things will destroy our life

Therefore, one needs to control them in life 

Picking up or catching them in the name of Jesus would make them helpless and powerless. 

So, the power of Jesus' make is the best tool to control these things 

*5) The failure to pick these things*

In fact all these things are found in our life. 

Our mission is to pick up these things and to thrown them out and to destroy them

If they are not picked up, then they grow and destroy our life 

If so, am I ready to pick up the various serpents in life and to proclaim our mission boldly

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Being Light in the World

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fourth Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 12:44-50*

*First Reading : Acts 12:24-13:5a*

*Being Light in the World*

*1) I came into the world as light*

In today's Gospel Jesus says that, *I came into the World as Light*

Jesus also says that *I am the light of the World*

These is a close connection between Jesus and Light

We can say, Light is the another name of Jesus 

Jesus being the light, brightens the entire World and the life of every one 

*2) We have been sent as a light into the world*

Since we are the followers of Jesus, we too are sent in to this world as Light 

So our life should be like a burning light, which should shine in this World

That's why Jesus says, *You are the light of the World*

As lights our works should, should always shine before the World 

*3) Today, World needs light* 

The present world needs light at every level 

There is lot of darkness in the World

 

The darkness of pride

The darkness of greed for power 

The darkness of anger 

The darkness of greed for authority

The darkness of jealousy

The darkness of greed for pleasure

The darkness of selfishness

The darkness of enemity 

The darkness of all evil things 

In this context we need the light to destroy this darkness

*4) Christian spirituality consists in becoming light to others*

One of the main missions of the followers of Jesus, is to become the light to others 

Becoming light means carrying out the mission of Jesus 

Becoming light means living the Gospel values and inspiring others to live the values 

Becoming light means, forgiving, loving, praying, serving, scarifying, and bearing witness to Christ

*5) Is my life a shining light?*

This is a great challenge

If our life is like a light, it will shine always

A shining lamp can't be hidden. It always shines and gives light to others 

If so, how about my life? 

Is my life a burning light?

Is my life shows the way to others? 

What can I do to become my life as light?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Our Works tell us, who we are?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fourth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 10:22-30*

*First Reading : Acts 11:19-26*

*Our Works tell us, who we are?*

*1) The question on Jesus' identity*

The Jews were very keen in knowing the identity of Jesus 

So they came to Jesus and asked *“How long are you going to keep us in suspense?*

So they were not able to understand the identity of Jesus. For them the identity of Jesus was still in suspense

*2) Jesus on the Works, and its importance*

To the question, which was asked by Jews, Jesus answers in this way 

*Look at my works,* then you will be able to know my identity 

This is a beautiful answer given by Jesus, which also inspires us reflect about our work 

*3) Jews failed to recognize the works of Jesus*

Jesus' works were following

Healing the sick 

Raising the dead

Working miracles

Forgiving the sins 

Fighting against the superstitions

Enlightening people through God's word 

Even though they saw, heard about these beautiful work they were not able to recognize the identity of Jesus 

Some of them were not ready to recognize the identity of Jesus because of their ego and pride 

*4) Works Speak louder than Words*

Each work of the person shows his/her identity

Good persons are recognised by their good deeds

Bad deeds of the person surely reveals his/her identity 

The works are the reflections of the person. They clearly show the identity of the person 

*5) Works without faith is dead*

Faith and work should go together. That's what we read in the book of James

Only faith, without work is useless. 

This also calls us to reflect about our faith and our works 

*6) How about my Works?*

The Gospel of the day also presents to us a great challenge with regard to our work 

Who am I? What is my identity? These are the fundamental questions of human life 

Since Jesus answers these questions, by highlighting the good works, it is very important to answer these questions, by reflecting the works of our life 

Our works should be seen by the others and they must be able to recognize our identity

So what does the works of my life speak about me? 

Does my work show that I am the follower of Jesus? 

Does my work show that I am a genuine and truthful person? 

Does my work show that I am gentle and simple person? 

Does my work show that I am a true Christian?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I able to recognize His voice?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fourth Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 10:1-10*

*First Reading : Acts 11:1-18*

*Am I able to recognize His voice?*

*1) Recognizing the voice*

This something special to us. If I am able to recognize some one's voice means,

I know  that person 

I am familiar with the person 

I have a special relationship with the person 

I am able to understand the feelings, emotions and the situation of the person 

I know the person very closely 

I am ready to listen to the other 

*2) Recognizing the voice of Jesus*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the recognising the voice of the shepherd by the Sheep

A Good Shepherd is the one who is able to take care of the sheep, and sheep is also able to recognize the shepherds voice 

Once they are able to recognize the voice of the shepherd, sheep always follow  the master without fail 

*3) Jesus is our Shepherd*

In today's Gospel Jesus also says that *I am the Good Shepherd*

Since Jesus is the Good Shepherd, as the faithful followers of Jesus, we are supposed to follow the Good  Shepherd

In order to follow the Good Shepherd, we need to recognize His divine voice and follow him very closely 

*4) Various ways of recognising the voice of the Shepherd*

*Holy Scripture* Jesus always speaks in the Holy Scripture. One can easily hear his voice and recognize it 

*Conscience* Human conscience is the seat of God. God speaks to us through our conscience. Those who are able to listen to their own conscience, can recognize the voice of the Shepherd

*Celebration of the Sacraments* Jesus always speaks to us through the sacraments. Celebration of the sacrament is an opportunity to listen to the voice of the Lord, and to become familiar with  His voice 

*Prayer* prayer is one of the familiar and very powerful and effective methods of listening the voice of the Lord, which helps us to recognize His voice 

*5) My Life and the voice of the Lord*

What importance do I give to the voice of the Lord in my life?

Do I hear the voice of the Lord, during the important moments of my life?

Do I recognise the voice of the Lord, in the poor, marginalized, sick and suffering? 

Do I feel the need of recognising the voice of the Lord? 

How familiar is the voice of the Lord to me?

*6)

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Modern Wolf in Christian Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fourth Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 10:11-18*

*First Reading : Acts 4:8-12*

*SECOND READING - 1 Jn 3:1-2*

*The Modern Wolf in Christian Life*

*1) The Caution about Wolf*

In today's Gospel Jesus, warns about the wolf which attacks His sheep 

The wolf comes and catches them, scatters them and finally kills some of them 

This was what, happened during the time of Jesus 

*2) Jesus' application to Christian Life*

Jesus takes a common example from the daily life of the people and applies it to our Christian life 

Jesus says there are persons or things which are equal to the wolf, and they attack the followers of Jesus

This particular example is applicable not only to the time of Jesus, but more to our present time 

*3) Modernised Wolf in our Christian life*

*Persecution* The persecutors are the modern dangerous wolf in our context 

They try to catch, scatter and kill the followers of Jesus 

*Media* Another powerful wolf which destroys the life of the followers of Jesus with wrong information. We need to be very careful about this wolf 

*Internet and Modern Technology* At times this also becomes a powerful wolf, which scatters the followers of Jesus from faith and right teaching. Need to be very careful about this wolf 

*Worldly Things* This includes the greed for material things, greed for power, wealth, position, authority, bodily pleasure etc. These are also powerful wolves attack and scatter the sheep of Jesus 

Apart from this *consumerism, individualism, secularism, atheism pluralism* are other forms of wolves, dangerous to the followers of Jesus 

  

*4) Shepherds Responsibility amisdt the Wolf*

Two types reactions are reported in the Gospel

*A Good Shepherd* Who safeguards the sheep from the attack of the wolf 

A shepherd, who is ready to lay down his life for the safety of the sheep

A shepherd who know the strength of the sheep and guards them accordingly

*A hired shepherd*  A shepherd who thinks of the money and hours of paid work 

A shepherd, who runs away first when he sees the wolf 

A shepherd who does not have the care and concern of the sheep 

A shepherd who do not know the sheep 

*5) How do I safeguard?*

All of us are the shepherds of our life 

There are dangerous wolves around our lives, ready to attack, scatter and to kill our Christian life 

In this context how do I respond? 

Do I respond to the situation as a good Shepherd or a hired shepherd??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Temptation to go to former way of Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Third Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 10:11-18*

*First Reading : Acts 4:8-12*

*Temptation to go to former way of Life*

*1) Many of his disciples returned to their former way of life*

The Gospel of the day presents to us one of the common, yet powerful temptation of Human life 

When the disciples of Jesus found his teachings are very challenging, they returned to their old ways of life 

This shows one of the greatest temptations of Human life, when life is met with challenges, to return to the former ways of life 

*2)  Temptation after the death of Jesus*

Disciples were  with Jesus for three years. They followed Jesus very closely. Yet when their life was challenged after the death of Jesus, the temptation to go back to the former way of life is very clear 

The disciples at Emmaus, is a clear example for this temptation

After the death of Jesus, two of the disciples were on the way of Emmaus, to go back to their former way of life 

The reason is, their leader, Jesus had been put to death and they thought that everything came to an end 

So they decided to go back to the former way of life 

*3) Who is greatest among the Disciples?*

This is another example which is coming from the life of the disciples

This is a purely worldly thinking, which was very strong in the lives of the disciples, even after spending time with Jesus 

So this proves that the disciples wanted to go back to the former way of life 

*4) Life is a choice to choose for each moment*

Each moment we have to make choice to embrace the new way of life to grow or to remain where we are or to go back to the former way of life 

The disciples of Jesus had hard choices to meet the demands of the Gospel, which often tempted them to go back to the former way of life

So each day, as Christians we need to accept the challenges of our life to move towards the higher form of life  

*5) The need of Higher enlightenment*

To understand and to accept the teachings of Jesus and to grow in the values of the Gospel, one needs a higher form of enlightenment 

To turn away from the temptations of this world and to accept the values of Jesus one needs deeper spirituality and enlightenment 

This deeper enlightenment comes through the prayer, following the commandments of the Lord, and reading and meditating the Scriptures

*6) How do I face this temptation?*

The temptation to go back to the former way of life is very strong in our life 

When we are challenged with most difficult things in our life, we go back to the older ways of life 

So, how is this temptation in my life? 

How often I suffer from this temptation? 

What are the ways, which I use to overcome this temptation?

Have I become the victim of this temptation?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How to eat Jesus' Flesh and Drink His wine?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Third Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:52-59*

*First Reading : Acts 9:1-20*

*How to eat Jesus' Flesh and Drink His wine?*

*1) Eating Flesh and Drinking blood*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus says *unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink his Blood, you do not have life within you.*

Because of this view there was a quarrel among the Jews about this view. They questioned about this view by asking *“How can this man give us his Flesh to eat?*

Eating flesh and drinking blood is something, which is beyond our imagination

In normal understanding we cant accept this view. Jesus understood this view in the literal way. That is why they found difficult to accept it 

*2) Beyond the Literal way*

Jesus is inviting all of us to have a deeper understanding of this view 

Beyond the literal way there is a spiritual or eternal way, which help us to understand the this particular way 

*3) Various ways of eating the flesh and drinking the Blood of Jesus*

We drink the blood and eat the flesh of Jesus through the following things 

Forgiveness

Service

Sacrifice

Unconditional love 

Humility

Sharing

Generosity

Simplicity

Faithfulness

Praying for the persecutors

Loving enemies

Helping others 

When we practice these Gospel values in our day today life, we eat the flesh and drink the blood of Jesus 

*4) Have I tasted the blood and flesh of Jesus*

Jesus has given us His body and blood as the life giving and eternal food

But the question is, have I tasted this food, which Jesus has given me? 

To taste this food, one needs to prepare himself/herself in mind and heart, which will help the person to enjoy this food 

One who tastes this food, will always search for this food, because it gives a special taste to those who eat it 

*5) Challenging process of preparing the flesh and blood*

First of all, to eat the flesh, it has to be cut into pieces 

Secondly, to drink blood, it has to be collected from the flesh 

This is a challenging task. Jesus has done this. 

Even to practice the Gospel values, one has to go through the process of preparing the flesh and collecting the blood from the flesh 

This needs a sacrificing ones life for the other 

Am I ready to go through this process? 

Like Jesus, am I ready to give my flesh and blood to others, through sacrifice, service, generosity, forgiveness etc?? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus the Living Bread

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Third Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:44-51*

*First Reading : Acts 8:26-40*

*Jesus the Living Bread*

*1) I am the Living Bread*

This is Jesus says in today's Gospel

Living means something which is active or someone who is active 

So it is very clear that Jesus is active, creative, full of life and one who can give life to others 

*2) How Jesus is the Living bread*

*Jesus has Risen* : Jesus has conquered the death, by rising from the death. So Jesus is Living 

*Eucharist* One of the greatest gifts of Jesus to the entire world. In it, we receive the eternal food through the body and blood of Jesus. Moreover Eucharist is the sacrament which is offered throughout the world 24/7. Jesus becomes living bread through the Eucharist

*Values of Jesus* We find these values in the Gospel, which are eternal 

Love, sacrifice, forgiveness, humility, service, faithfulness, patience, generosity, sincerity, etc are the values of Jesus, which are practiced by the millions, which have no end. Jesus becomes living bread through these values 

*3) Living bread, gives life*

Jesus being the living bread, gives life to the other and to the entire world 

Jesus says whoever receives this bread will have life - eternal life 

Jesus is eternally living. So one who receives Jesus will live eternally

We can receive Jesus through the Eucharist, prayers, through the practice of Gospel values, which make us eternally living Christians 

*4) We are called to become living bread*

Like Jesus we are called to become living bread - living Christians and not dead Christians 

Dead Christians are those, who are only for name sake Christians but don't practice the values of Jesus 

Living Christians are those who practice the values of Jesus and inspire others to follow the same. Such people are really the living Christians 

People like Mother Theresa, Sr Rani Maria are called the living bread or living Christians

*5) Am I a living Bread*

Living bread always gives life to another. 

How about my life? Does my life give life to another, through the ways if service and practice of Gospel values? 

Is my life a living bread or rotten bread, which is useful only to be thrown out? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

I should not lose anything of what he gave me

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Third Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:35-40*

*First Reading : Acts 8:1b-8*

*I should not lose anything of what he gave me*

*1) One of the great missions of Jesus*

Jesus came into this world with a definite and great mission 

To save the entire mankind from the eternal fire and to give eternal life. 

This was the mission given to Jesus by His Father. 

That's why Jesus says *I should not lose anything of  he gave me*

*2) The main mission of our Life*

Like Jesus, our Heavenly Father has given, each one of us a special mission 

The mission is, that we should not lose anything that our Heavenly Father has given to us 

This calls us to reflect all the things that God has given us 

*3) The Gift of our Heavenly Father*

*Life* We should lose our life with bad things. This is one of the great missions that God has given us 

*Skills & Talents* To everyone God has given various skills and talents. We need to use these skills and talents for building the Kingdom of God and not lose these valuable things for bad things 

*Intelligence & Knowledge*

Another important are which we should not lose for bad things. Use it for good things 

*Heart & Mind* If heart and mind is used for to practice the Gospel values, we can become great saints. Never to lose these things 

*God given Senses* One of the costliest gifts of the Lord to us. Nothing can buy these things in this world. Never to lose these things for evil things. One should take great trouble to use these things for holy things and continuous efforts are needed to safeguard these things 

*4) Have I lost, what God has given us?*

This is a very important question to reflect in our life 

Many times, for various reasons people lose many things and life becomes miserable to live 

In this context it is very important to look back into our life and to see the situation of our life and to evaluate actual situation of the God given things 

*5) Need of Jesus' Help*

In this great mission, we need the help of Jesus 

Since we are weak, it very difficult and challenging to all of us to safeguard these God given valuable things 

Through the Help of Jesus, and the commandments of the Lord, we can safeguard these things 

Prayer, service, generosity, truthfulness, sacrifice are the various other ways to safe the God given things 

*6) The Lost things*

Have I lost the valuable things, which God had given me? 

How vigilant I am to safeguard the eternal things in my life? 

How cab I help others to safeguard the valuable God given things?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Crucifix is the greatest sign in the entire human History

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Third Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:30-35*

*First Reading : Acts 7:51—8:1a*

*Crucifix is the greatest sign in the entire human History*

*1) What sign can you do, that we may see and believe in you?*

This is the question, which was asked by the disciples of Jesus during his time 

If we were to ask this particular question, and mediate on this question, we will find a wonderful answer to this question

*2) Crucifix is the greatest sign in the Human History*

Crucifix is the greatest sign, which has become eternal sign, through the death of Jesus on the Cross

There is no other sign in the world which depicts the unconditional love of God, through Jesus Christ

It is a sign which shines in the darkness of the world to give new life to every one 

*3) The Great Sings from the Crucifix*

As we see the crucifix, following are the signs, which are seen in the crucifix

Crucifix is a sign of love 

Crucifix is a sign of sacrifice

Crucifix is a sign of service

Crucifix is a sign of peace

Crucifix is a sign of God's gift 

Crucifix is a sign of forgiveness

Crucifix is a sign of faithfulness

Crucifix is a sign of care

Crucifix is a sign of kindness

Crucifix is a sign of concern

Crucifix is a sign of eternal Life 

Crucifix is a sign of patience

*4) A sign Which is open to all*

Crucifix is a open sign which calls every one to follow the Gospel values 

Its a open sign to love ones enemies and to forgive others 

It is a sign to conquer the world through love, service, forgiveness and sacrifice

*5) Crucifix is Found everywhere*

We see crucifix everywhere, wherever Christians are found 

There is no place where the crucifix is not found, wherever there are Christians 

Crucifix brings Christian presence and Christians bring the presence of the Cross

*6) Crucifix is the sign of Christianity*

Today crucifix has become the external sign of Christianity

Christianity and Crucifix go together. One can't exit without the another 

Have I realized that crucifix is the greatest sign in my life? 

Do I still look for a sign? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Looking for Jesus : Material Needs and Spiritual Needs

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Third Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:22-29*

*First Reading : Acts 6:8-15*

*Looking for Jesus : Material Needs and Spiritual Needs*

*1) People looking for Jesus*

The Gospel of the day has beautiful narration about the  search of Jesus by the people 

When the people didn't find Jesus, they searched for him, in and around of their places

Finally they took the boat and went to the place where Jesus had gone. This shows the interest they had to meet Jesus 

*2) Search for Jesus for material needs*

When the people found Jesus, they were very Happy

Jesus reveals their intention of searching Jesus

Jesus says *I say to you, you are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate the loaves and were filled.*

This shows that people were searching for Jesus for material needs and not for spiritual needs

*3) Jesus on Spiritual needs*

Jesus was trying to communicate the message of the Kingdom of God, through various signs - miracles, healings, preaching etc 

One among them was the feeding of Five Thousand. It was a great miracle, which Jesus performed for multiple reasons 

First of all to feed the people, who were hungry 

Secondly to, show the love, mercy and concern of the heavenly Father

Here Jesus wanted to communicate the greatness of the heavenly values, or Gospel values or Eternal values 

But people were impressed only about the material needs forgetting all the spiritual insights

*4) The search of the people in our context*

Today's context is not totally different from that of the time of Jesus

Most of the people search for Jesus for material needs 

Most of our prayers also depend on asking for various things. At times our prayers consists less of thanksgiving, praising God and being with the Lord and more of asking favours from the Lord 

This is exactly like those people who were looking for Jesus for material needs and forgetting all the spiritual needs

*5) Need of Higher enlightenment*

To look for spiritual needs and to grow in it, one needs higher enlightenment 

Higher enlightenment will help us to understand the value, importance and the need of Spiritual things in our day today life 

Enlightenment will help us to grow in our relationship with God

*6) My Search for Jesus*

All of us search for Jesus for some need, either spiritual or material

But the question is, why do I search for Jesus? 

Is my search limited only when I need the material things? 

When I am fully satisfied with material needs, do I search for Jesus for spiritual needs or I  forget completely? 

Do I feel the need of Spiritual things in my life?

What can I do to increase the desire for Sptitual things?

 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Message of Repentance and forgiveness of sins should begin from Jerusalem

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Third Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Lk 24:35-48*

*First Reading : Acts 3:13-15, 17-19*

*SECOND READING - 1 Jn 2:1-5a*

*Message of Repentance and forgiveness of sins should begin from Jerusalem*

*1) The Risen Christ's Command* 

The Gospel of the day, speaks about the important message of the Risen Lord 

The Risen Lord exhorts his disciples to preach the message of repentance and the forgiveness of sins 

This shows the importance of this message 

*2) Importance of Jerusalem*

Jerusalem becomes important place for Jesus 

The early life of Jesus, the ministry, the passion, and death, becomes important events in the life of Jesus

The resurrection of Jesus and the first appearance of Jesus and the message of repentance and forgiveness of sins becomes central points in Jerusalem

So Jerusalem becomes  important place for the spread of the message of the Risen Lord

*3) The spread of the Mission*

The mission which started from Jerusalem, became very effective, first of all in Jerusalem and then around it and finally to the entire world 

So the beginning point, Jerusalem becomes very important for all of us 

*4) Jerusalem - in my Life*

The starting point Jerusalem, also has very deep significance in our life 

So, Jerusalem is not  only a particular place but also has other meanings, or spiritual meanings 

So Jerusalem, is our own life, our own home, our own community, our own neighborhood, our own surroundings and our own society

So the message of  Repentance and Forgiveness of sins should begin in these places and should spread to the other places 

*5) Importance of Repentance and Forgiveness of Sins*

Jesus  started his mission with the call of repentance 

He continued his mission by highlighting the need of forgiveness of Sins 

In fact, Jesus became man, to actualize the mission of the forgiveness of Sins 

So the same message is being proclaimed, after the resurrection of Jesus 

So, these aspects become very important  in the Mission of Jesus

*6) Am I ready to begin this Mission in my Jerusalem*

After having known about the importance of Jerusalem, which connects my life very closely, what is my response? 

Am I ready to begin the mission of repentance and forgiveness of sins, first of all, in my own life and family? 

A mission which begins from my own life and from my family will have some lasting effect. 

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*

The Need of the boat to cross the other Side

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Second Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:16-21*

*First Reading : Acts 6:1-7*

*The Need of the boat to cross the other Side*

*1) The disciples of Jesus and the boat*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the travel of the disciples of Jesus to the other side of the sea of Capernaum.

They use the boat to cross the River. Here boat becomes the important instruments for the Disciples to cross the River 

This boat can be applied to every situation of our life and see the deeper spiritual meaning

*2) Life is a travel to cross the other side*

Human life is a pilgrimage from this world to the other world - to heaven

Each day our journey continues to our destiny

This journey can't be stopped. Everyone has to be on move. 

To pass from this world to the other world, which is heaven, we need some boat for our safe travel 

*3) The Nature of the Journey*

The journey of the disciples in the boat to cross the river was not very easy 

The boat met with strong wind and waves on its journey

So the journey was not easy. Over and above it was night, and they were frightened of the ghost 

Likewise, Our journey from this world to heaven passes through so many trails and tribulations. So our journey is not so easy. 

One needs lots of courage and patience to face our journey

*4) Jesus accompaniment of Jesus*

The Gospel also shows that, Jesus was there with the disciples, when they were in trouble

The journey of the disciples in the boat, was met with strong wind and waves 

When the disciples were frightened, Jesus encouraged them and helped them to reach their destiny

*5) The need of the boat in our life*

Since our life is a journey, we need to cross from this world to another world, which is heaven 

To cross this journey we need the following boats 

The boat of patience

The boat of love 

The boat of sacrifice

The boat of service 

The boat of humility

The boat of forgiveness

The boat of understanding

The boat of truthfulness

The boat of faithfulness

The boat of prayer 

The boat of spirituality

The boat of sacraments

*6) How is my Journey?*

Already my journey has begun

The question is, how is my journey? 

How are the boats on which I am traveling to the other side? 

Are these boats capable of sustaing the strong winds of worldly things and waves of evil things? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Gather the fragments left over, so that nothing will be wasted.”

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Second Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:1-15*

*First Reading : Acts 5:34-42*

*“Gather the fragments left over, so that nothing will be wasted.”*

*1) A great lesson from Jesus*

Today we reflect about the miracle of feeding the 5000 by Jesus 

At the end of the miracle we have a beautiful and meaningful lesson from Jesus about the management of the resources 

After feeding the 5000 men, Jesus asks his disciples to collect all the left over things so that nothing will be wasted 

This is a great lesson from Jesus which also speaks about managing our various resources in our day today life 

*2) Wastage of the Food, is a great Crime*

The lesson from today's Gospel by Jesus speaks about the wastage of the food 

Today there is a lot of wastage of the food in our functions 

On the one side there are many people who suffer and die without food 

It is said around 25,000 people die worldwide, because of the lack of food 

On the other side there is a lot of wastage of the food by those who have lots of resources to spend

In this context wastage of the food is considered as the great sin because it may result in the death of a poor man, who has nothing to eat 

*3) Everything is the Gift of God*

Everything in the world is a gift of God 

All resources are great gift of God, which are to be used for the betterment of human life and for the greater glory of God 

So we have the responsibility of spending the resources in a responsible way

Nothing is Bad, because everything is created by God 

God created by God, for the Good of all and not for the greed of few 

*4) Wastage of the resources in Life*

The lesson of Jesus about the management of the resources, applies to all the areas of our life

It is not only about the food, but every aspect of our life 

Life is a gift of God, Nothing will be wasted 

Nothing will be wasred from our intelligence

Nothing will be wasted from our energy

Nothing will be wasted about creativity 

Nothing will be wasted from the gift of Time 

Nothing will be wasted from our material resources 

Nothing will be wasted from our knowledge 

Eyes, mind, tongue, ears, emotions, feelings, are the great gift of the Lord to us. Nothing will be wasted from these valuable treasures

*5) Natural Resources*

We have thousands of natural resources which are God's gift to all of us 

Light, solar energy, air, water,  oxygen, and other natural resources are the great gifts of the Lord to us 

We have the responsibility and duty, not to waste these resources  

*6) How do I use my resources?*

Am I using my resources to the fullest extent or not?

All the great saints used their resources in the right way and in right spirit, including their life. Therefore they became great saints 

What about my life? Do I use my resources to the fullest extent? 

What are the hurdles in my life to use my resources? 

Do I waste my resources? 

Life becomes a burden when we fail to use our God given resources

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Am I a earthly person or from above?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Second Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 3:31-36*

*First Reading : Acts 5:27-33*

*Am I a earthly person or from above?*

*1) Two things*

The Gospel of the day speaks about two things 

The earthly things and the things from above, which means from heaven 

Earthly things could be considered as the material things, where as the things from above could be considered as holy things, good things, eternal things etc 

*2) The identity of the person*

The Gospel of the day also gives us a opportunity to think about our own identity 

Our identity also seen from the point of view of what things we speak 

If we speak the things from above or holy things, or eternal things, our identity is that of God's children 

When we speak about the earthly things, we become earthly persons 

*3) Earthly and Heavenly things*

All good things are considered as things from above 

God is good and all good things come from above 

These good things can be found everywhere. Good things are also found on the earth 

Good things are, love, sacrifice, service, humility, patience, simplicity, truthfulness, faithfulness, holiness, prayerfulness 

In one word, all the Gospel values, and good things could be considered as things from above 

Earthly things are considered as pride, anger, hostility, revenge, pleasure, and all bad things 

*4) Christians are called to speak and practice the things from above*

Jesus is our model. He spoke and practiced things from above 

All those who follow Jesus are supposed to follow the example of Jesus 

So it is very important that all Christians are called upon to live and proclaim the heavenly things in and through our life 

*5) Heavenly things lead us to God*

The Gospel also clarifies that all those who speak about heavenly things are able to practice the same 

When we practice these things, we become the children of God and we are able to recognize God 

Finally these Good things take us to God and to heaven

*6) What do I speak?*

What is the content of my speech?

Am I speaking about the earthly things or things from above? 

What are the hurdles to speak the things from above?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

God gave His only beloved Son. What do I give in return?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Second Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 3:16-21*

*First Reading : Acts 5:17-26*

*God gave His only beloved Son. What do I give in return?*

*1) God gave his only beloved Son*

The Gospel of the day tells us that, God gave his only beloved Son, to us and to the entire world 

He gave His Son, so that all might be saved and may obtain eternal life 

The purpose of sending His only Son,  is to save the entire world and the people from the clutches of Satan and Sin

*2) The Best everlasting Gift*

By giving Jesus, His only beloved Son, God gave us the best gift, that is to say ;0

The everlasting gift 

With Jesus,  we understand that God gave us the best and everlasting gift  to all of us,whose value one cant even calculate 

Such is the importance of God's great gift to us 

*(3) What is my response?*

God gave us best gift, which we are supposed to share with Others. What is my response?

Have I realised the importance and necessity of this gift, who comes in the person of Jesus 

Do I think about this gift in my day today life? 

*4) What is my Gift?*

God gave us the best Gift. What about my life? 

What would the best gift to God and to neighbours in my day today life 

After having received the gifts, it is our duty and obligation to share the gift, with others, which is received from God

*5) The possible gift in return to God and others*

Our life is one of the best gifts to God and others

Along with our life, the following things are considered as the best gifts to others and to God 

A Heart with thankfulness

A heart which serves others 

A heart which is ever ready to forgive others 

A heart which is able to remain faithful to God and others 

A heart which is ready to reach out others in their need 

A heart without any guile 

A heart with the power of prayer. 

So what is the gift which I have have in my life, to share with others  

*Am I ready to share my valuable gift with others?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Christians are called to be born from Above

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

Easter Season: Second Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 3:7b-15*

*First Reading : Acts 4:32-37*

*Christians are called to be born from Above*

*1) Birth from Above*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the birth from above 

While Jesus speaks with Nicodemus, He speaks about the birth from Above 

Further Jesus also speaks about the birth from the Spirit

So birth from above means birth from the Spirit

*2) The Qualities of the Spirit*

The Spirit which Jesus speaks about is the Holy Spirit

Holy Spirit has the following Gifts 

1 ) wisdom, 

2) understanding, 

3) counsel, 

4) fortitude, 

5) knowledge, 

6) piety, and 

7) fear of the Lord.

The Fruits of the Holy Spirit are the Following

Charity

Joy

Peace

Patience

Kindness

Goodness

Generosity

Gentleness

Faithfulness

Modesty

Self Control

Chastity

*3) Christians are called to be born of the Spirit*

With Baptism, we take birth into God's family 

We become the children of God and God becomes our Father

When Jesus speaks about the birth from Spirit, we need to take birth in the above values 

Unless there values are born in our life, we really don't become Christian in our life 

*4) Birth and growth in the Spirit*

There is no doubt that every Christian is born in the spirit on the day of Baptism. 

But the question is, have I grown in these values after having taken birth in these values? 

Some have taken birth and have seen death of these values after some years 

Some have made little growth. Some are struggling and others are making progress

*5) Examples of Birth from above or Spirit*

Matthew the Tax collector

Zaccheaus 

Mary Magdalene

One leper who came back to thank Jesus 

All 12 disciples

St Paul 

*6) Am I growing in the Spirit?*

This is the important question

Every Christian is called upon to grow in these values to facilitate our birth and growth in the Spirit

If So,  am I growing in the Spirit in my life? 

Is the growth in these Gospel values, disturbed with any other things?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

God's Angel Gabriel in our Life

Gospel Thoughts 

Easter Season: Second Week : Monday

*Gospel : Lk 1:26-38*

*First Reading : Is 7:10-14; 8:10*

*God's Angel Gabriel in our Life*

*1) God's Angel Gabriel*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the Angel Gabriel

Angel Gabriel was sent by God, with a wonderful message to Mother Mary 

Gabriel means means "God is my strength" or "man of God"

Angel Gabriel's mission was to communicate the goodnews to others 

*2) Angel Gabriel and Mary*

Angel Gabriel was sent by God, to communicate a very important message to our Blessed Mother 

Mary accepted the message from God, through Angel Gabriel and offered herself for the mission of the Lord 

Through Angel Gabriel, God gave a new direction to the life of Blessed Mother 

*3) Angel Gabriel in our Life*

Like the life of Mary, God sends angel Gabriel in our life, in different context 

Mary recognized the Angel Gabriel, and accepted the message and the plan of God 

When we recognize the Angel Gabriel, in our life we are able to accept the plan of God in our life and we are able to do wonderful things in our life 

*4) The Various Forms of Angel Gabriel*

There is no doubt that God sends the Angel Gabriel in our day to day life with a divine message. How to recognize this angel. The possible ways are the following 

The angels message through the Holy Scriptures

The angels message through the celebration of the Eucharist

The angels message through the prayer 

The angels message through the adoration

The angels message through the service to the needy 

The angels message through the practice of Gospel values like forgiveness, humility, love, sacrifice, simplicity, truthfulness, faithfulness etc 

*5) Angel Gabriel and My life*

What is my relationship with angel Gabriel? 

Will I be able to recognize His presence in my life with a divine message? 

Will I be able to accept the divine message in and through the Angel Gabriel?

What are the hurdles to accept the divine message in and through the Angel Gabriel?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The various ways of the Mercy of Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season : 2nd Sunday*

*GOSPEL - Jn 20:19-31*

*First Reading - Acts 4:32-35*

*SECOND READING - 1 Jn 5:1-6*

*The various ways of the Mercy of Jesus*

*1) Peace be With You*

Peace is one of the greatest forms of mercy. 

In order to create a peaceful atmosphere, lots of adjustments, sacrifice and wellbeing of others is necessary

All these are nothing but the various forms of Gods mercy 

The very fact that Jesus has used the word *Peace* when He appears to His disciples, it shows how important and how powerful word is this 

So there is no doubt that *Peace* is one of the powerful symbols of Mercy of God

*2) Forgiveness of Sins*

Another important aspect which is highlighted in today's Gospel 

Forgiveness of sins is the direct from of Gods mercy 

Forgiveness is another name for mercy and mercy is another name for God

Through the forgiveness of the Sins we experience the mercy of Jesus in our day today life 

*3) Clarifying the doubts*

Doubts are one of the things which makes our  life miserable

Thomas doubted the very resurrection of Jesus and that's why he was not ready to believe in Jesus 

But Jesus appears to him directly and clarifies his doubts and he believes in the Risen Christ

So clarifying the doubts and giving the correct knowledge about the important matters is nothing but the important phase of the mercy of God 

*4) No anger, No punishment*

When Thomas doubted the very existence of the Risen Christ, Jesus never got angry with Thomas 

Neither Jesus wanted to punish Thomas for his severe doubt about the Risen Christ

But Jesus uses the different way to communicate the great message to Him 

So not getting angry, and not intending to punish another but trying ones level best to convince the fact is one of the great phase of the mercy of God

*5) Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.*

This is very important for us 

We today believe Jesus even though we have not seen the Risen Lord, as Thomas saw 

Yet to believe in such a Risen Lord we need the mercy of the Lord 

It is only through the mercy of God we are able to believe in the Risen Lord, even though we have not seen Him 

*6) We are called to become merciful people*

Like our Risen Lord we have been called to become merciful people. Following are some of the ways through which we can become merciful people 

By forgiving the sins of one another 

By fostering the spirit of forgiveness

By repenting ones faults and trying to change ones life 

By helping some one in need 

By sharing something with others 

By being polite to one another 

By not taking revenge and not becoming arrogant 

By accepting the path of humility 

By helping someone in whatever way possible

Am I ready to become a merciful person like Jesus?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Group of Unbelievers

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 16:9-15*

*First Reading : Acts 4:13-21*

*The Group of Unbelievers*

*1) The Resurrection of Jesus and the Unbelievers*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the unbelief in the Risen Lord and the people who belong to this group 

After Jesus had Risen, He first appeared to Mary Magdalene and then to his two disciples on the way to Emmaus. 

Both these incidents were reported to the Apostles but they didn't believe 

In a way, because of their unbelief, we can say that they were, for a short period of time, remained in the group of unbelievers

*2) The Group of unbelievers Today*

Today even after 2000 years there are also people who don't believe in the Resurrection of Jesus

In a way they also doubt his death and resurrection

There are great number of people today who belong to the group of unbelievers

*3) The Signs of the Risen Christ*

To say that Christ is not Risen is foolishness

There are several strong evidence to prove that Christ is Risen 

There are more than two people who have experienced and seen the Risen Lord in the Early Church 

The Risen Lord has appeared to all the disciples, which is recorded in the Bible

Thirdly, there are billions of people who have believed in the Resurrection of Jesus for more than 2000 years 

The Lord is alive in the Eucharist, who works miracles in our life 

A God can't be a dead God. He died to conquer the death and now He is alive. He is the God of living and not of the dead 

Risen Christ is the Power of the Church, which is active, creative and effective

*4) The Signs of Unbelief*

The Gospel also speaks about the signs of Unbelief

The *Hardness of the Heart*

This particular attitude of the disciples is highlighted in today's Gospel

Once the heart becomes hard, all kinds of evil things take birth in ones life 

So one should be careful about, heart becoming hard in ones life 

*5) Do I belong to this group?*

Unbelief is one of the great blocks or hurdles in growing relationship with Risen Christ

The unbelief of the disciples vanished when Jesus appeared to them. 

Do I belong to the group of unbelievers? 

If so, what are the reasons for the same? 

How can I overcome from these things? 

*6) The command of the Lord*

All those who believe in the resurrection of Jesus has the duty to proclaim the Risen Christ to others. It is a command of the Lord. 

By proclaiming the Risen Christ, one can help the other who does not believe in the Resurrection of Jesus 

Secondly, by proclaiming the Risen Christ, we become the genuine and committed disciples of Jesus 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jumping into the Sea and growth in the life of St Peter

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 21:1-14*

*First Reading : Acts 4:1-12*

*Jumping into the Sea and growth in the life of St Peter*

*1) Peter Didn't jump into the Sea*

We have a first encounter of Jesus to his first disciples at the sea of Galilee

Peter, Andrew, James and John were involved in finishing in the sea of Galilee

Whole day they had tried, but caught nothing. Finally when Jesus met them, Peter lowered the nets at Jesus' word and caught a huge amount of Fish 

At this Peter realised that it was the Messiah, but he didn't jump into the sea

*2) Peter's Jump into the Sea*

In the Gospel of Matthew 14: 30 we have a incident of Jesus walking on the Water

As Jesus walked on the water and came near to the disciples, they were afraid, thinking that it was ghost 

When Jesus said, don't be afraid, because it is I, Peter said, *Lord, if it is realPeteru, then command  me to come to you on the water.*

Jesus said come and Peter jumped into the water and started to move towards Jesus 

But when he saw the wind and waves, he was frightened and began to sink. 

When he shouted, Lord save me, Jesus saved him from the danger 

*3) The second Jump of the Peter into the Water*

The Gospel of the day, presents to us, the second jump of Peter into the water 

The situation is similar, that of Fishing 

When Peter realised that it was the Risen Lord, he didn't ask anything with Jesus 

He simply jumped into the sea and moved towards the shore 

He was not frightened, neither he sank in the water

Confidently he came to the Shore 

*4) The gradual growth in the Life of Peter*

In the incident, the call of disciples, by Jesus, Peter didnt jump into the Water 

In the second incident, Peter asked Jesus and then he jumped into the water. He began to sink and had to call out Jesus for survival

In the third incident, Peter recognised the Risen Lord. He didn't not wait for the command of the Lord. Simply jumped into the water 

Here he had not fear of walking on the water. He walked and came to the shore 

We see a gradual growth in the life of Peter 

*5) Peter's life into the way of perfection*

There is a lot of difference in the First Peter, who met Jesus on the sea of Galilee, and the Peter who witnessed the Risen Christ and His reaction 

There is a gradual yet profound growth in the life of Peter, about his commitment to the Lord and about his mission for the Lord 

Peter becomes a model for all of us to follow 

*6) How about My life?*

What is the level of growth I have in my life? 

How does the Risen Lord's experience, has changed my life? 

Is there any growth in my life about Jesus and Christian spirituality? 

What can I do, to improve my commitment to the Lord? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Message of Repentance, for the forgiveness of sins

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Thursday*

*Gospel : Lk 24:35-48*

*First Reading : Acts 3:11-26*

*Message of Repentance, for the forgiveness of sins*

*1) Content of Preaching*

The Gospel of the day has a beautiful narration, of experiencing the Risen Lord by the Disciples 

The whole narrative has many beautiful things. One among them is the content of our preaching 

In other words what must be our response after experiencing the Risen Lord 

*2) Repentance and Forgiveness*

These are the two powerful and important things which are highlighted in the preaching 

Jesus started his ministry with the call of repentance. *The time is fulfilled, Repent and believe in the Gospel* Mark 1:14

Now Jesus asks His disciples to begin the ministry in the same life 

The result of repentance is the forgiveness of Sins 

*3) Both are interlinked*

Both these above concepts are very much linked  with one another 

There is no forgiveness of sins with out the repentance. A repentance which does not lead to the forgiveness of sins has no meaning 

So one is built on the other. So both are very necessary 

*4) Preaching starts with our Life*

When we reflect about these above concepts it is very clear that the mission of preaching should start from our life 

First of all the repentance. It is very much linked to our life. Repentance is more of personal thing to our life 

Repentance starts from our life, which helps us to experience the mercy of the Lord 

*5) Perfection of ones life*

These two things perfect our life 

The whole Christian life is built upon these things 

A Christian life which is far away from these two things can't be a Christian life 

This is the Foundation of Christian life and spirituality

*6) Any one can preach these things*

The preaching on repentance and forgiveness of sins can be preached by any one 

In fact this is the preaching of every follower of Jesus 

This preaching has to be done not by words but by actions

Lived life based on these things are very much witnessing to the Risen Lord 

*7) Am I ready to preach through my Life?*

I must become the first preacher to myself about repentance and forgiveness 

The mission of the Risen Lord is very clear. But the question is, am I ready to follow the instructions of the Risen Lord?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What are you discussing as you walk along?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :  Easter Season: Wednesday*

*Gospel : Lk 24:13-35*

*First Reading : Acts 3:1-10*

*What are you discussing as you walk along?*

*1) The discussion of the disciples*

The disciples were on the way to Emmaus

As they were traveling, they were discussing about the events that took place in Jerusalem 

These were the important events. The passion, crucifixion, death and burial of Jesus 

The disciples were busy in discussing these things 

*2) The main topic for Easter Season*

The passion,  crucifixion, death, burial and resurrection were the main events for Easter Season 

A disciple of Jesus must discuss these issues, in deeper level during this season 

One can't bypass these events at any cost

*3) Important events are discussed*

Ordinary events are not discussed 

Less important things usually are ignored 

But some issues of greater importance are discussed at length to understand the logic of it 

The very fact that disciples discussed these issues seems to be very important for the disciples 

*4) Important topic for Discussion*

The events which happened in the life of Jesus are to be discussed not only during the season of Easter but all throughout year 

Thses are the events which have divided the History into before Christ and After Christ 

These are the issues which are discussed even today at all circles 

These are the events which are discussed throughout the History

These events History can't forget or ignore 

That's why they are discussed

*5) What are we discussing?* 

We too discuss lots of things 

Today the same Risen Lord asks each one of us this question *“What are you discussing as you walk along?”*

What is my answer?/

Am I discussing about the unwanted things? 

Am I discussing about gossip?

Am I discussing about some ones faults and failures? 

Am I discussing about the politics?

 Am I discussing about how to become rich over night? 

Am I discussing about increasing my business, through illigal means? 

We are called by Jesus to discuss about the serious matters and to follow Him.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

I have seen the Lord : Have you seen the Lord

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :  Easter Season: First Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 20:11-18*

*First Reading : Acts 2:36-41*

*I have seen the Lord : Have you seen the Lord*

*1) I Have seen the Lord*

These are the powerful words, which are found in today's Gospel 

These words have come from Mary Magdalene 

Mary Magdalene, is one of prominent characters, in the life of Jesus 

She loved Jesus with a sincere heart. She accompanied Jesus in his passion, death and even to tomb 

She is blessed to see the Risen Lord and to communicate the Good News 

*2) No greater thing, than to see the Risen Lord*

When we reflect about our life, to see the Risen Lord, is the greatest opportunity in ones life 

There is no greater thing in life, than to see the Risen Lord 

Mary had the opportunity to see the Risen Lord 

What about my Life? Do I consider Seeing the Risen Lord is the greatest thing in life?  

*3) Best time to meet the Risen Lord*

We are in the season of Easter 

Easter is a time to experience the Risen Lord 

It is a time to meet the Risen Lord 

It is a time to know more about the Risen Lord

It is a time to speak about the Risen Lord 

In one Word, this is the best time to  See and Experience the Risen Lord 

*4) Things needed to see the Risen Lord*

To know this, we need to see the life of Mary Magdalene 

The prominent and important things are the Following 

Conversion of Life 

Total commitment to the Lord  

Sincere Love for Jesus 

Closeness to Jesus

Following Jesus  during, his public life, during is passion, crucifixion, death and burial of Jesus

Her visit to the tomb shows her love

When we have such a commitment we can see the Risen Lord

*5) Where to see the Risen Lord?*

Today we can see the Risen Lord, in our surroundings 

We can see the Risen Lord in poor    

We can see the Risen Lord in sick and needy  

We can see the Risen Lord in our neighbors  

We can see the Risen Lord in the elderly  

We  need to see the Risen Lord in our persecutors 

We need to  see the Risen Lord in those who challenge us

We need to see the Risen Lord   in those who wish bad bad for us 

We need to  see the Risen Lord   in our enemies

We need to see the Risen Lord   in those who criticize us

*6) What about my Life?*

Seeing the Risen Lord, is not a easy thing 

It is a very challenging task 

It needs a disciplined way of life, morally upright life, service oriented life, and integrated life with Gospel values 

Only those who have such a way of life can meet the Risen Lord 

Does my life, reflect a above way of life, which can experience the Risen  Lord?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Easter is a time to be away from the tomb and to proclaim the Good News

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  :  Easter Season: Easter Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 28:8-15*

*First Reading : Acts 2:14, 22-33*

*Easter is a time to be away from the tomb and to proclaim the Good News*

*1) Time of Tomb is over*

We are in the season of Easter. Its a time to rejoice and to proclaim the goodnews 

In other words it is a time to move quickly away from the tomb and to proclaim the Risen Christ 

The Gospel of the day has this incident. 

*Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb ....to announce the news to his disciples.*

*2) The Importance of the Tomb*

Tomb symbolizes the death, and a temporary end of life 

Jesus was laid in the tomb for three days. Tomb becomes important in these days to reflect about the death of Jesus 

Tomb also a symbol of waiting for the next event 

Tomb also creates some kind of suspense and mystery aspect of death 

*3) Easter is a new phase of Life*

In this context the Easter is totally a diifernt phase of life 

It is a season of new life 

It is a season of new hope 

It is a season of mission  

It is a season of total change

It is a season of proclamation

It is a season of fulness of life 

So it is a time to be away from the tomb for a new mission 

*4) Tomb in our life*

We are enslaved by various kinds of tomb in our life 

The tomb of sin 

The tomb of jealousy

The tomb of pride 

The tomb of selfishness

The tomb of revenge

The tomb of anger 

The tomb of gossip

The tomb of division

The tomb of greed

The tomb of lust 

The tomb of attachment to worldly things 

The tomb of uncontrolled desires 

Now it is time to come out of these tombs and to move away from these tombs, in order to proclaim the good news 

*5) Am I ready to move away from the Tomb*

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, to proclaim the Good News 

What about me? Am I ready to move away quickly from these tombs 

The quickness also highlights the urgency to moving away from the tomb

So what is my response? 

Near the tomb no one is there. One has to move from the tomb to reach the new place to proclaim the Good News

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*

Mary Magdalene's experience of the Risen Lord

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Easter Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 20:1-9* 

*First Reading : Acts 10:34a, 37-43*

*SECOND READING -Col 3:1-4 or I Cor 5:6b-8*

*Mary Magdalene's experience of the Risen Lord* 

*1)  Mary's Journey towards the Tomb*

Mary wanted to see the Lord. That's why she went early in the morning 

It was still dark. Yet she was not frightened of the darkness. Because Jesus was there in her mind and heart 

When Jesus is there in the heart and  nothing can stop in meeting Jesus  

*2) Mary's worry*

There is no doubt that she wanted to see Jesus 

But here thoughts were about the tomb

Who will roll back the heavy stone from the entrance 

How to remove the stone? Who will come to help her? 

 If she is unable to remove the stone what is the other alternative? 

So she had lots of questions in her mind and heart 

*3) The great Surprise for Mary*

When she reached the Tomb, she had different experience 

She found that the stone had already taken away 

The tomb is wide open. She was totally confused and didn't know what to do 

Yet she checks the tomb and to her surprise, the tomb was empty 

*4) The empty Tomb experience*

Mary Magdalene clearly tells the disciples after departing from the tomb *“They have taken the Lord from the tomb*

Here Mary Magdalene does not say that the dead body of Jesus had been taken away 

But she says *The Lord*. They have taken away the Lord

So Jesus is still alive to Mary Magdalene 

Finally She finds the Risen Lord because of her deep desire to meet the Lord 

*5) How about my life?*

Mary had deep desire to meet the Lord. How about my desire? 

Mary was confused in her serach for the Lord. Yet she didn't give up. What about me? When I am confused do I give up? 

She tries to verify the facts at the tomb. Still she asks the help of the disciples to know the reality. How about me? Do I seek the others help? 

Mary was firm in her serach for Jesus. Finally she found. 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*