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*