The Unanswered Questions of Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 11:27-33 Gospel*

*First Reading : Jude 17, 20b-25*

*The Unanswered Questions of Life*

*1) Questions without answers*

In today's Gospel we have few questions, which have no answers 

First of all the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to Jesus and asked this particular question *By what authority are you doing these things? Or who gave you this authority to do them?”*

Jesus didn't give answer to this question. 

But at the same time Jesus asked another question to them *Was John’s baptism of heavenly or of human origin?*

To this question, they had no answer and that's why they said *“We do not know.”*

So the questions remain as they are

*2) The Flood of information*

Today we are living in the world where there is answer for everything 

There is a flood of information and knowledge available in the web 

Ask any questions to Google, it answers 

In this context when people don't get answers to certain questions, they become restless and impatient

*3) The Perennial Questions*

In Philosophy we have a special term which is called perennial questions

Perennial questions means, there are certain questions which have no definite answers 

Question remain as mystery and no one can solve 

One such question would be *Why there is pain in human life?*

*4) The unanswered questions of Life*

There are number of questions about human life which have no answers. Some examples would be 

What is the purpose of my life? 

Who created me? 

What is the destiny of my life? 

Why there is evil in the world? 

Why good people suffer and evil ones thrive? 

Why there is sorrow in life? 

Why we have to sacrifice lots of things in life? 

What is eternal life?

Where is heaven?/

Who crested soul? How is the soul? 

Why human beings have to struggle in life? 

Why there is sadness in life? 

Why we have to die? 

*5) No Suspense, No Thrill*

These unanswered questions give rise to some type of suspense in life 

Such a suspense is very important for life

If there is no suspense there will not be any thrill in life 

Thrill makes our life meaningful, creative, and colourful 

With thrill, we can face life even without getting answers to the questions

*6) Faith means believing without the full knowledge*

When it comes to the area of faith, we believe many things which have no complete answers 

Faith does not require full answers to the questions 

In faith there is always suspense and that suspense makes our life meaningful 

*7) Questions in my Life*

How do I deal with the questions of my own life, which have no complete answers? 

What are my answers to those questions which have no definite and exact answers, especially the questions of life and spiritual life? 

How do I answer the mysteries of my own life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The central aspects of Mary's visit to Elizabeth

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Friday*

*Feast : The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary*

*Gospel : Lk 1:39–56*

*First Reading : Zep 3:14–18a [or Rom 12:9–16]*

*The central aspects of Mary's visit to Elizabeth*

*1) Visitation and the Family Relationship*

Today we celebrate the feast of the visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth

This is not a ordinary visit. This is a special visit which communicates a powerful message to all of us 

First of all this visit highlights the importance of the family relationship. 

Both Mary and Elizabeth are related to each other 

To sustain this relationship, visit plays a very important role. Visits are very important within the families

*2) Visit to be with the Person*

Mary visited Elizabeth to remain with her for three months 

Since Elizabeth needed the help of some one, Mary was ready to spend time with her 

Visits are not like picnics. Visits are not for name sake

Every visit should facilitate to spend sufficient time with our beloved people 

Spending very little time, goes against the nature of a meaningful visit 

*3) Visit with the purpose of Service*

Mary's visit was not to receive something from the other

Her visit was to give something to Elizabeth 

She had gone with the purpose of serving her for some time 

Her visit was fully involved with the intention of serving Elizabeth. 

One of the noblest tasks of the Visit 

*4) Visit to share the divine experience*

This was a special visit which ultimately helped both of them to have deeper God experience 

In other words, this is a visit with divine aspect 

Every visit should have this divine aspect which really makes the visit meaningful

Coming together itself is a best ambience to experience God in our life 

*5) Visit to experience the greatness of one another*

This was a visit to experience the greatness of one another 

This visit speaks the greatness of Mary by Elizabeth. She said *“Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.*

The Greatness of Elizabeth was revealed when the baby in her womb leaped for Joy

Greatness of both women is seen in this great visit  

*6) Visit to proclaim the greatness of God*

This visit also proclaims the greatness of God 

The great things done in the life of Mary and Elizabeth is highlighted during this visit 

This visit proclaimed the glory of God for the rest of all generations. What a great visit which proclaims the glory of God for eternity

*7) Visit to Double the Joy*

This divine visit ultimately doubled the joy of Mary and Elizabeth 

It also doubles our joy when we reflect this divine visit

Every visit has the capacity to double the joy in our lives 

*8) How about my visits?*

What is the duration of my visit? 

Is my visit to receive something or to give something? 

What about my visit and the aspect of Service? 

Do I believe in the reality of visit at all?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:46-52*

*First Reading : 1 Pt 2:2-5, 9-12*

*“Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you.*

*1) One needs courage to follow Jesus*

In the Gospel of the day, we have a incident of healing the blind Bartimaeus

In the process of healing Bartimaeus, Jesus calls him to come to His place

So someone in the crowd said to Bartimaeus, *Take courage, get up, Jesus is calling you*

This shows to go to Jesus one needs courage 

*2) Why one needs courage?*

First of all the demands of Jesus are very challenging 

Jesus does not promise easy and comfortable life and mission 

He calls us for a challenging mission. 

*Take up your cross and follow me* This one aspect shows why one should have courage to follow Jesus 

*3) Only Courageous people can follow Jesus*

History has proved that no cowards will be able to follow Jesus 

To follow Jesus and His teaching one needs tremendous inner courage and conviction 

To forgive one needs courage

To serve others - courage needed 

To humble oneself

To show the other side the cheek 

To walk two miles 

To be generous towards others 

To carry the cross 

To make sacrifices 

So every little mission of the Lord needs courage to carry out 

*4) Why Bartimaeus, needed courage?*

First of all he had to throw his cloak, which was everything for Bartimaeus,  so far 

Secondly, he had to walk and go to Jesus, since Jesus had called him there 

Thirdly many people discouraged him, about the whole episode. To keep going Bartimaeus, needed a great courage

Fourthly, the end result was not know, even though he had believed in the power of Jesus 

Finally he needed courage to follow Jesus and face the  people and their reactions after he had gained his sight. 

*5) Courage can change our life for better*

Bartimaeus,  took courage, went to Jesus, who healed him from the blindness

The Gospel also shows the great change which happened after the miracle

Bartimaeus, took courage and went to Jesus which changed his life completely

Courage really changes our life 

*6) How about my courage?*

How courageous to follow Jesus, to proclaim his message and to build the kingdom of God? 

Am I courageous to question my own conscience? 

Am I courageous to challenge my own life? 

Am I courageous to say no to evil things in my life? 

Am I courageous to amend my sinful ways of life? 

Am I courageous to say *Yes* to God's plan, just like our blessed mother?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

It shall not be so among you.

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:32-45*

*First Reading : 1 Pt 1:18-25*

*It shall not be so among you.*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus speaks about many things, which should not take place in our life. They are the following

*1) Division*

In the Gospel Jesus first of all speaks about the division among the disciples 

There was a division between two and ten 

Ten became very angry with the two and there was a division between them 

Division happened because of the tussle for power and authority

*2) Influence through the parents for selfish goals*

Here we see the Mother of James and John came to Jesus to ask for a favour 

It is the mother who is coming on behalf of the sons to ask for a favour 

It is a favour filled with selfish purpose and hidden motives 

A mother influencing, for the selfish purpose does not look nice. In fact a mother should not interfere in such matters 

*3) Greed for power and Authority*

We also see the greed for power among the disciples 

Because of such greed mother comes to plead with Jesus 

Because of such greed, James and John use their mother to get the favour 

Because of such greed the ten become very angry with the two 

Ultimately the greed spoils whole thing

*4) Master and Slave/Servant relationship*

Jesus also gives a hint to the relationship which will exist after one gets the authority 

Jesus says *You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt.*

This particular view tells us that the power and the position which James and John wanted ultimately lead them to make others as servants or slaves

So Jesus warns them not to have such an attitude 

*5) Work for following things*

Jesus also tells us to which things should happen in our life 

One should not afraid to face any challenges while living ones life in the service of another 

Service oriented life is more important than anything else 

Humility is the genuine mark of the followers of Jesus 

Work for the building of the kingdom of God through the team work

One should not break the team work but should work to strengthen the Unity 

*6) How about my Life?*

What things are happening in my life? 

Am I allowing those things which are not suppose to happen in my life? 

What are those things from which I should remain far to live my life in a worthy way?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Reward with Persecutions

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:28-31*

*First Reading : 1 Pt 1:10-16*

*Reward with Persecutions*

*1) Reward For Gods work*

The Gospel reveals a great truth in today's Gospel

Every Work, either small or great, done for the spreading and building of the Kingdom of God will be rewarded 

There is no work which will go unrewarded. Jesus says *if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”* Mt 10:42

*2) 100 times more reward*

God has a different calculation for reward 

In our reasoning the reward is a kind of recognition, which does not equal the work done in actual situation 

The value of the work always remains much higher than the value of the reward. This is what we see in our day today life 

But when God gives us reward the value of the reward is 100 times more than the value of the work 

So God does not calculate and give. He simply gives 

The logic of Gods giving is found in the Gospel *A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.* Lk 6:38

*3) Reward with Persecution*

The Gospel also clearly states that reward always comes with much persecution 

All those who have given up their personal interest and work for the kingdom of God are usually targeted and persecuted 

This is clearly seen in our surroundings. The followers are Jesus are persecuted and threatened for the good work they do in the service of the needy

In other words persecutions are the part of the reward. 

*4) God's reward is lasting forever*

The rewards which are given by the human beings lasts only for few years 

But the reward which comes from God, lasts forever. 

The reward which we get in this life and the reward which we get in the next life, lasts forever

We need to work for such reward and not for fleeting reward 

*5) Human weakness to crave for earthly reward*

There is a natural tendency in all of us to desire for earthly rewards 

As a result at times we forget about the eternal reward and also the mission required for eternal reward 

So we need to be very careful about this tendency and need to work for eternal reward 

*6) Reward in my Life?*

What type of reward I desire in my life? 

Is it earthly reward or eternal reward?

Jesus says *“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.* Mt 6:1

Do I wish to have reward from Heavenly Father or from men?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Is my wealth making me sad?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:17-27*

*First Reading : 1 Pt 1:3-9*

*Is my wealth making me sad?*

*1) Later I should not regret*

Recently I met a person, who is enjoying the high position in certain institution 

He is very generous in helping people. In other words, he goes out of the way to help people whenever possible 

When I met him he said *Later I should not regret for not going what was possible when I am in high position*

What an inspiration to all of us to reflect this thought

*2) The Rich man went away sad*

In the Gospel, we find a rich man, who finally goes back with very sad face 

The cause of his sadness is the wealth which he had. The Gospel says *he went away sad, for he had many possessions.*

Its very important to see that the wealth he had finally becomes the cause of sadness, because he was not ready to share it with the needy

*3) Greatest tragedy : Wealth becomes the cause of sadness*

Every human being is trying to live happily avoiding all kinds of pain, suffering and sadness

According to man's thinking money and wealth can give him/her such a kind of happiness. 

But this has proved wrong and many have ended their lives with sadness and misery 

Mere having wealth and money does not bring happiness and joy. This is the fact  

*4) Wealth a source of happiness*

Wealth becomes a source of happiness only when it is shared with others 

All those who have shared their wealth, they have become great persons 

All those who have hoard wealth and money for selfish purpose, finally end up in sadness and desperation

In the life of Rich man, wealth became the cause of sadness because he was not ready to share with others 

*5) What are my possessions?*

Possessions need not be only the material things like, money, wealth, gold, and worldly things 

These are my possessions

My knowledge

My skills 

My talents 

My intelligence

My position 

My authority

My admirers

All these are my wealth. 

Am I sharing these things with others or using it only for the selfish purpose? 

*6) Is my wealth making me sad?*

One thing is 100% sure. We can take nothing when we depart from this world

Finally if my possessions make me sad at the end of my life, then it has no meaning whatsoever in my life 

Will my possessions make me sad at the end of my life? 

Will I regret for not doing what was possible because of my position, power, wealth and money? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Great Lessons from the Trinity

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Eight Week : Sunday*

*Feast of the Most Holy Trinity*

*Gospel : Mt 28:16-20*

*First Reading : Dt 4:32-34, 39-40*

*SECOND READING : Rom 8:14-17*

*Great Lessons from the Trinity*

*1) Feast of the Holy Trinity*

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Trinity 

Holy Trinity is a Triune God, The Father, Son and the Holy Spirit

Trinitarian God always remains as Mystery since it consists One God with three persons 

This mystery can be reflected only through the prayer and contemplation 

*2) Trinity is a Family*

Trinity is the First ever family which exists eternally 

In this Family, God the Father, God the Son and God  the Holy Spirit work creatively  for the redemption of the World 

This is the model family, which all the families in the world must follow, in order to grow in Holiness

*3) Unity in Trinity*

We see a perfect unity in Trinity. 

The Unity exists between the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit 

The unity is so strong no other power can destroy this Unity 

*4) Equality in Trinity*

There is perfect equality in Trinity 

All are Equal and no one is higher than the other 

Equality is very essential to work in unity 

*5) Trinity in our Daily life*

We can't live without Trinity

We start our day with Trinity and conclude our day with Unity 

No program will begin and end with out invoking the Triune God 

Evey time when we take the sign of Cross we invoke Triune God, to protect us from evil things 

*6) My Life and Trinity*

Our life here on earth began with Trinity 

It is a extended family to undergo  divine experience, through the celebration of the Sacraments  

How about my experience of the Triune God?

What are the qualities of the Trinitarian which I practice in my day today life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

People were bringing children to Jesus : A great Responsibility

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:13-16*

*First Reading : Jas 5:13-20*

*People were bringing children to Jesus : A great Responsibility*

*1) Bringing Children to Jesus*

This is one of the important responsibility of all the parents and the elders 

This particular gesture of bringing children to Jesus has lots of implications on the lives of Children 

Its a beginning of the faith journey in the lives of Children. So one can't fail in this duty for what so ever reason 

*2) First responsibility of the Parents*

During the Nuptial rite, there is a question *Will you accept children lovingly from God, and bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church?*

Further the Baptism rite has the following instruction *On your part, you must make it your constant care to bring him/her up in the practice of the faith. See that the divine life which God gives him/her is kept safe from the poison of sin, to grow always stronger in his/her heart*

The above words or instructions, during marriage and Baptism rite clearly explains the responsibility of the parents 

*3) Availability of the Children to the parents*

Children spend much of their time with the parents 

After 40 days the child is brought to the church for baptism. Afterwords child is brought to the church according to the convenience of the parents

The child officially begins the catechism in the Church after the admission to the 1st standard 

So the first five years the children are with the parents 

The foundation for the religious life which was laid by the parents during these first five years will help the child to grow in faith and moral life 

Here we come to know the gravity of the great responsibility of the parents

*4) Failure in the responsibility*

Today the trend is changing. Accordingly there are many changes in the family life and upbringing of the children

Some times parents are so busy that they have no time for children 

Some times parents fail to give sufficient guidance in religious matters since they are busy 

Lack of prayer at home and skipping the Sunday obligation also gives a wrong message to the children 

Some parents also don't allow the children to involve in the religious matters, since Sunday is only the Holiday 

Failure in these areas may cause serious problems in the faith life and moral life of the children

*5) Various ways of Bringing children to Jesus*

Family prayer 

Creating interest in reading the Bible 

Participating in the religious activities 

Active involvement in community activities

Spending time in service oriented activities 

Encouraging children to practice Gospel values 

*6) How do I carry out my responsibility*

As a parent how do I bring my child to Jesus? 

When others try to bring my child to Jesus, how do I react?

Am serious about bringing my children to Jesus for blessing? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Marriage : A model of Relationship

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mk 10:1-12

*First Reading : Jas 5:9-12*

*Marriage : A model of Relationship*

*1) Marriage : First Ever relationship in the World*

When God created the World, He created the human beings with His own image and likeness

He created them Man and Woman. He brought them together, blessed them and gave the command *Be fruitful and Multiply*

This is the first ever human relationship which we find in the Bible 

*2) Marriage : A Model relationship*

There are different kinds of relationship between human beings 

Among all these relationships the marriage covenant takes the first place because of its special nature 

It is a relationship, which is designed to continue forever. 

That's why it becomes a model relationship 

*3) Things required to maintain this relationship*

Total commitment

Total surrender

Total giving 

Total forgiving

Total sharing

Complete trust 

Mutual understanding

Listening the other 

Spirit of sacrifice

Spirit of patience 

Spirit of tolerance

*4) Divine Union no separation*

In the Gospel of the day, Jesus also makes it very clear that God is the source of every sacred relationship

It is God who causes this relationship, that's why it is called Divine Union

Such a union can't be broken. Dividing the union is sinful and it leads to destruction

No man has the power to break the relationship which was caused by God

*5) Entering into marriage with God*

The very fact that we are related to God, we have a strong bond between God and us. This is just like a marriage relationship with God 

If so, How is this relationship in my Life? 

Is my relationship with God, just like the scared  marriage relationship? 

Have I tried to keep up the sacredness of this relationship? 

How do I relate with God?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Flavour lost Salt and Humanity Lost Human being

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:41-50*

*First Reading : Jas 5:1-6*

*Flavour lost Salt and Humanity Lost Human being*

*1) Insipid Salt*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the salt and its flavour in the context of doing good and bad 

Salt is very important ingredient in our life, especially in preparing food 

If the salt loses its flavor, or if it becomes insipid, it becomes useless. Such salt is thrown out 

*2) Humanity lost Human being*

A person is called human being because of the quality of humanity 

If there is no humanity in a person, then there is no difference between an animal and a human person 

The day a person loses his/her humanity, he/she ceases to remain as human being. Such a person is equal to an animal 

*3) Signs of Losing the Humanity*

The Gospel of the day gives us few signs which clearly tells us that one is on the way of losing the humanity 

One becomes a cause of sin to little ones 

Hands, legs, and eyes become the instruments of sin, than doing good 

Person becomes very cruel, revengeful, greedy, selfish, merciless, exploitative and treats others as slaves 

*4) Keep salt in yourselves*

The Gospel also tells us to keep the salt to safeguard the humanity in our life 

The salt of Love 

The salt of forgiveness

The salt of service

The salt of goodness

The salt of sharing 

The salt of humility

The salt of simplicity

The salt of prayer 

The salt of generosity

The salt of these things will help us, build up our humanity 

*5) How about my Life?*

Have I lost the flavour of my life? 

Have I lost the flavour of doing good and helping others? 

Have I lost the flavour of smile on my face?

Have I lost the flavour of cheerfulness? 

Have I lost the flavour of hardwork in my life? 

Have I lost the flavour of the Gospel values in my life? 

With what will I restore its flavor?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Do not Prevent Him/Her

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 9:38-40*

*First Reading : Jas 4:13-17*

*Do not Prevent Him/Her*

*1) A great and important thought*

In today's Gospel we have this above thought *Do not prevent Him*

This particular thought gives us a very powerful message and to reflect about our own attitude towards others 

We often hear and witness that many try to prevent the good works done by another person 

*2) Why we Should not Prevent*

First of all it is  good work, which benefits many people 

Secondly, Good works always come from God. In the Good Works there is the presence of God is found 

Thirdly Good works always bring us happiness and joy. Then why to prevent them 

Preventing Good Works means blocking God from doing something good and useful 

Preventing good works means challenging Gods work in our life and surrounding

*3) Reasons, Why people prevent Good Work*

Jealousy is the main reason 

Fear of Losing of power and authority when others do good works 

Fear of losing the popularity, when others do good work 

Selfish interest like, to control other people, to keep them as  dependents, to subjugate them, etc 

*4) Good Works can be done by any one*

Good works are not the property of few 

All of us are created in the image and likenesses of God to do good works which were started by God 

Everyone can do some or the other good works in our life 

*5) Jesus was prevented from doing Good*

We see in the life of Jesus many times many people, some times even Satan prevented Jesus from Doing good 

But Jesus didn't stop going good. The Gospel says, *He went on doing Good*

None of the preventions could stop or discourage Jesus from doing good 

*6) Prevention in my Life*

Preventions are the part and parcel of our life 

Any work which we do, faces with some or the other kinds of hurdles 

At this situation what is my reaction? 

How do I face such a Situation? 

Do I prevent some ones good work, because of my jealousy, pride, insecurity or for personal gain? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Wise way of settling the Dispute

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Tuesday

*Gospel : Mk 9:30-37*

*First Reading : Jas 4:1-10*

*Wise way of settling the Dispute*

*1) Dispute among the Disciples*

The Gospel presents to us a dispute among the disciples 

The dispute about *Who is greatest among them?*

That was the great and burning issue among the disciples

Jesus came to know this issue and he tries to solve it in the following way 

*2) Strategy followed to solve the Dispute*

*A) Jesus called all of them*

First and important step. He made all of them to come together

Coming together is a very important step in solving the issue

*B) Jesus clarifies the issue*

Jesus knew the issue which was disturbing the disciples 

Still he asked his disciples about the matter *“What were you arguing about on the way?”*

Trying to clarify the matter from the concerned party is very important 

This step helps us to keep away ourselves from biased opinions 

*C) He made them to sit together*

Coming together is not sufficient. Sitting together is very important 

It is a gesture which communicates a powerful message, that is, readiness to listen to the other party

*D) Explanation of the issue*

Next Jesus takes up the issue and speaks to them. After asking them about the problem, Jesus gives an explanation which helped the disciples to understand the nature of His mission 

*E) Practical example*

In his attempt to solve the matter Jesus gives them a practical example, the example of a child 

The Gospel says *Taking a child he placed it in their midst,  and putting his arms around it he said to them,*

The example of the child enlighted the disciples about their meanness and that greatness of the Master 

*3) Poilet Way*

Jesus uses the polite way while solving the dispute 

He didn't scold them, nor showed any kind rude feelings towards them 

Jesus also uses most convincing way to convince his disciples 

*4) Well settled disputes give rise to higher goals*

If the disputes are unsettled then unity breaks and worst things happen 

Jesus settled the dispute in such a way that it made them to think something higher and greater things for the good of the community 

*5) Disputes in my Life*

How do I face disputes in my life? 

How well I settle the disputes in my life or in my family life? 

Do I carry the disputes or settle them in best possible way? 

Do I seek the help from others in solving the issues? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Blessed Virgin Mary: Mother of the Church

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Monday*

*The Blessed Virgin Mary: Mother of the Church*

*Gospel : Jn 19:25-34*

*First Reading : Gen 3:9-15, 20*

*The Silence of Mary*

*1) Mary at the foot of the Cross*

The Gospel of the day presents to us a scene, where Mother Mary is found at the foot of the Cross

Jesus is hanging in the Cross. He is about to die on the Cross. The scene is very scary. 

Even at this crucial time Mary is found at the foot of the Cross

*2) The Silence of Mary*

There are many things which are happening at the foot of the Cross

As a Mother to face all the things, which her son goes through at the last moment of his life, its very difficult to remain silent. 

But Mary remained silent at the foot of the Cross, seeing her suffering son on the Cross 

*3) The powerful message of Mary's Silence*

Her silence speaks louder than words at the foot of the Cross 

She never grumbled for this situation in any way 

She never questioned for the humiliating death of her son 

She never cursed any one who were responsible for the death of Jesus 

She never scolded the soldiers who beat him and finally crucified him

To remain silent at this situation needs a lot of inner courage and strength

Mother Mary had such a courage and strength

That's why her silence is louder than words 

*4) Complete surrender to the Yes*

Mary's silence also reflects her *Yes* to the will of God 

Once she had said yes to the will of God, she never questioned, even at the most crucial moment of her life 

So her silence also speaks very loud about her complete surrender to the Will of God

*5) Mary's silence an inspiration to all of us*

How about my life? 

How do I react when I am faced with most difficult challenges and failures? 

How do I accept the most crucial moments of my life? 

Do I make others responsible for my failures? 

Do I grumble at others for my mistakes? 

How about the silence in my life, when I am faced with failures? 

How do I see the silence of Mary 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 Fire of the Holy Spirit

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Pentecost : Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 20:19-23 or Jn 15:26-27; 16:12-15*

*First Reading : Acts 2:1-11*

*SECOND READING 1 Cor 12:3b-7, 12-13 or Gal 5:16-25*

*The Fire of the Holy Spirit*

*1) Holy Spirit in Fire*

Today we celebrate the Pentecost Sunday 

50 days after Easter, the coming of the Holy Spirit 

Holy Spirit came in the form of Fire. In fact fire is one of the symbols of the Holy Spirit 

This fire has close connection with the Holy Spirit

*2) Fire gives Light*

Wherever there is fire, there is light. It dispels the darkness. Darkness can't survive before light 

With Light our life becomes joyful, meaningful and colourful 

The Fire of the Holy Spirit fills us with divine light which brightens our spiritual life and makes it joyful 

*3) Fire burns everything*

This is the nature of fire. It burns and destroys everything

The fire of the Holy Spirit destroys all the evil and unwanted things from our life 

It destroyed the fear of the apostles

It destroyed the ignorance of the apostles

It destroyed the anxiety of the apostles 

It destroyed the confusion among the apostles 

It destroyed the darkness filled in Apostles 

*4) Fire transforms everything*

Fire has the quality to transform everything whatever comes into contact 

It will transform into another form. Ash or the dust is the another form to which it transforms

Holy Spirit through its fire transformed the Apostles to a higher form 

Fire has the capacity to transform into higher form 

*5) Fire is always Warm*

Fire is never cold. Wherever there is fire there is warmth

With fire one can't remain idle or silent 

One has to be always active. 

The fire of the Holy Spirit, makes us warm, active, vibrant and creative

*6) One can't play with Fire*

Whenever one tries to play with the fire, it will burn them. When it goes out of control it becomes dangerous to our life 

The fire of the Holy Spirit is very powerful. One can't play with it 

One has to carefully deal with this fire, so that it becomes very useful for our life 

How is the fire of the Holy Spirit 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*

You follow me

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 21:20-25*

*First Reading : Acts 28:16-20, 30-31*

*You follow me*

*1) The command : Follow me - Beginning of the Ministry*

When Jesus met the fishermen, on the sea of Galilee, for the first, He said *Follow me*

Gospel says they left everything and followed Jesus 

Jesus began His ministry with this call to His disciples 

*2) Last Part of the Gospel : You Follow me*

Today we reflect the last part of the Gospel, and we have a similar command with individual significance, to highlight the responsibility of each and everyone 

The very fact Jesus is using the same expression in the last part of the Gospel, shows the need of following Jesus 

It is surprising to see that the Gospel ends with the command *Follow me* which is very dear to Jesus and also to us 

*3) "Follow me" applicable to all the Time*

The command *follow me* is applicable to all the time to all the followers of Jesus 

Today Jesus calls us to follow him very closely to continue His mission 

By following Jesus we can definitely participate in the mission of Jesus 

*4) How to follow Jesus?*

In the present context we need to reflect about the various ways of following Jesus 

One of the best ways of following Jesus is the practice the Gospel values 

When we practice the Gospel values like, forgiveness, humility, love, sincerity, generosity, sacrifice, service, sharing, spirit of Prayer and other values, we follow Jesus 

*5) Urgency in the Command : You follow me*

The great command *You follow me* comes in the context of Going ones mission without wasting ones time

It appears that Peter was involved in the discussion on John, who is the beloved disciples of the Lord, Jesus tells him not to involve in such things, but to pay attention to the mission of the Lord 

This also shows the urgency of the mission 

*6) Follow me : My Life*

Jesus is reminding us  everyday through this call to follow Him 

First of all, am I able to experience the call of Jesus in my life, on various occasions? 

Secondly, am I able to follow Jesus in my day to day life, 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*

Jesus' Question : Do you Love me?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Friday

*Gospel : Jn 21:15-19*

*First Reading : Acts 25:13b-21*

*Jesus' Question : Do you Love me?*

*1) One of the important questions*

In today's Gospel we have a beautiful and very meaningful question about Love 

At the outset it appears very simple and Peter answers this question very quickly 

In fact this question becomes very important and part and parcel of our life 

*2) Third time made to think*

Jesus asks this question three times to Peter 

First two times Peter answers this question very quickly. 

But when Jesus asked three times Peter began to think and His answer came after deep reflection 

*3) Jesus on Three times*

Jesus asks the same question three times 

First of all, when same question was asked for the third time, it highlights the importance of the question

So it is very clear that the question is not very common or casual question

Secondly, when the same question was asked for the third time, Peter began to think about the matter, and He gave a solid answer to the Question

*4) The Challenge to Love Jesus*

When Peter said third time that He Loves Jesus, we must pay attention to what followed afterwards 

Jesus says, *Feed my Sheep*. Its a mission 

Then follows the Challenges

There will be persecution, pain, rejection, crucifixion, and finally the martyrdom

So the question is very simple but answer involves the entire mission of life 

*5) Love and Family*

One of the best examples to understand the challenges of Peters mission is the Family 

The couple come together saying they love each other in everything till the death 

As they take up the mission of the Family they come to know the cost of loving each other 

It involve, challenges, problems, failures, pains, rejection, and finally a kind of martyrdom

*6) Love and My life*

How about my Life?

Jesus asks the same question to me

What is my answer? 

Do I feel that the answer to this question is very simple? 

Am I ready to take up the mission like Peter in Loving Jesus? 

Am I ready to face rejection, failures, pains, persecutions, for the sake of Jesus and to love Jesus? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The need and importance of Unity

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 17:20-26*

*First Reading : Acts 22:30; 23:6-11*

*The need and importance of Unity*

*1) Prayer for Unity*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the prayer for unity 

Jesus is seen praying for the Unity of His disciples 

Jesus not only prays for unity but also asks us to pray for the unity, which will help in building the Kingdom of God here on earth

This shows the importance of unity in our life 

*2) The reality of Unity*

Unity is a very challenging aspect in our life. 

To maintain unity in evey sphere of life is not easy 

To strengthen the unity, people should come together and express their oneness. Only then Unity becomes strong and effective

*3) The Demands of the Unity*

There are lots of things we need to consider when it comes to Unity 

One needs to sacrifice many things for the sake of unity

One needs to work hard to strengthen the unity in all tjt areas of our life 

Sacrifice, humility, forgiveness, human approach, sincerity, patience are some of the important qualities to strengthen the Unity 

*4) Model for Unity*

Jesus also gives the model for unity 

Model of Father, Son of the Holy Spirit

The unity found in the Trinity is perfect, complete and divine 

We need to follow the such a model in exercising our unity  

*5) Unity in diversity*

Here unity is not uniformity, But unity in diversity

Belief in Jesus, Gospel values, Divine inspirations are necessary for the Unity 

Unity in Uniformity is only a external factor 

Unity in Divine value and  Spiritual Matters  need not be Uniform, but it can be inspiration to unite the people of God 

*6) The reality of Division*

This is a reality and fact 

There are thousands of divisions in the Church, which is a challenge for the unity 

Many are seen dividing the Church for their hidden agenda and for the other things 

So, like Jesus we need to pray intensely for the unity in the Church 

*7) My prayer for Unity*

Unity gives a great strength and meaning to our life 

If there is no unity, then division only remains 

On my part, prayer for unity, hard work for unity, a little humility, forgiveness and patience is very much needed for  strengthening the Unity, in our Homes, work places, churches and in  the society where we live 

Only then we can enjoy the benefits of unity. 

*Am I ready to live in Unity?*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Jesus' Prayer for the Protection from Evil

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 17:11b-19*

*First Reading : Acts 20:28-38*

*Jesus' Prayer for the Protection from Evil*

*1) Keep them from the Evil One*

In today's Gospel, Jesus makes a long prayer for his disciples

In this prayer, Jesus many tines makes a  mention about the protection of his disciples 

Especially Jesus makes a mention about the protection from the Evil one and Jesus prays to the Father for the  protection of his disciples from the Evil one 

*2) Lords Prayer and Safety from Evil one*

The Lord's Prayer is one of the beautiful and most popular prsyers taught by Jesus 

In this prayer Jesus also teaches us to pray for the deliverance from tnd Evil 

This shows how important it is to have protection from the evil one and how in this regard prayer works

*3) Adam and the Evil one*

When Adam and Eve was created by God and kept in the Garden of Eden, they were tempted by the evil one 

Satan made false promises and finally it trapped Adam and Eve and made them to go against God 

Because of the Evil one, Adam and Eve were put out of the Garden of Eden

*4) Jesus and the Evil one*

When Jesus spent 40 days and 40 nights in the desert, the Evil one came to tempt him 

Since, Jesus was filled with the Power of the Holy Spirit, He was able to challenge the evil one 

The evil one could not tempt Jesus and finally it went away with out doing anything to Jesus 

This was possible because of the power of the prayer 

*5) Modern World and the Evil one*

Modern world appears to be very colourful. 

It is more tempting in every area. The evil one is using every morden Gadget for tempting the human bring 

So one needs to be more careful in the modern World 

*6) Prayer : A tool against the Evil one*

From prayer and teachings of Jesus it is very clear that only prayer can defeat the evil one 

The evil one has no power before the prayer 

So Jesus is asking all of us to pray at all time. He says pray that you may not fall into to temptation

To fight against the evil one, prayer is the best tool. 

Am I familiar with this tool? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Logic of Friendship

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 15:9–17*

*First Reading : Acts 1:15–17, 20–26*

*The Logic of Friendship*

*1) You are my friends*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the aspect of friendship

Friendship is one of the beautiful relationship that exists among the Human beings 

Friendship makes our life meaningful and joyful

Jesus entering into a friendship relationship with us, is a special privilege, which makes us very close of Jesus 

*2) The Foundation of the Friendship*

There must be a good leader among the friends 

There must must be openness among the friends

They must be able to listen to one another and respect one another 

In today's Gospel Jesus says, *You are my friends if you do what I command you.*

Friends of Jesus must do what the master tells 

Since Jesus is the best leader, others must listen to Him and do whatever he tells others 

By doing whatever Jesus tells us, we can become best friends of Jesus 

*3) The Command of Jesus*

To become friends of Jesus we must do what Jesus commands us. In this context what is the command of Jesus to us 

Jesus tells us, forgive others, and you will be forgiven

Give to others and you will be given much more than you give to others 

Don't judge others and you will not be judged 

Pray always, so you may not fall into temptation

Treat people the same way you want them to treat you,

Love others as you love yourself 

These are some of the important things which Jesus commanded us to do. By doing thses we become the friends of Jesus 

*4) Advantage of Jesus' friendship*

When we are friendly with some one we become very close to them. So here we become close to Jesus 

Secondly, most of the times we admire our friends and ready to do anything for them. Here we not only admire Jesus but ready to do whatever Jesus tells us 

Thirdly, when are friendly with others, our work is done very quickly. By being friendly with Jesus, the work of accomplishing our mission and going to heaven can be achieved easily 

Friends always like to stay together. By being friendly with Jesus we can always stay together with Jesus 

*5) The need of becoming friends of Jesus*

We have a definite mission for our life. This mission can be achieved by being friendly with Jesus 

Only Jesus knows the way to Heaven. Jesus shows this way to all those who are friendly with him 

By being friendly with Jesus we lose nothing, but gain many things, and we move in the right direction 

Without being friendly with Jesus we can't live our Christian life effectively. 

So we need the friendship of Jesus 

Am I friendly with Jesus? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

In the world you will have trouble

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 16:29-33*

*First Reading : Acts 19:1-8*

*In the world you will have trouble,*

*1) A great Fact*

In today's Gospel, Jesus reveals a great fact. The fact about the troubles in the world 

The World is filled with various troubles and a human person can't avoid certain troubles in his/her life 

One can't cross the life in this world, without encountering the troubles 

*2) Jesus faced many troubles*

In the life of Jesus from the moment of conception, till he ascended into heaven there were many troubles 

At his conception, at his birth, at his childhood, at his mission, at his passion, death and resurrection there were many troubles, which Jesus had to face to accomplish his mission 

Being the Son of God, Jesus went through all the troubles  in the world, to show the reality of Human life 

*3) Efforts for Trouble free Life*

The world is running towards the trouble free life in this world

The Artificial Intelligence, the Scientific development and other areas of grow, try to promise the human beings more comforts and less troubles in the World 

But in fact in the world troubles have not come down, but they have increased and human life seems to be miserable, in certain situations

*4) The troubles in the World*

Wars between the countries

Greed for power, money, position, authority, wealth and property, creates lots of troubles and many become victims of this situation 

Troubles because of the religion, food habits, cultural differences, belief systems, difference of opinions in various areas of our life, ultimately creates lots of troubles in our life 

*5) Spiritual Troubles*

As Christians we face lots of spiritual troubles to live our life in Holiness and purity

Troubles of sin 

Troubles of temptations 

Troubles of boidly emotions 

Troubles of bodily pleasures 

Troubles of peace of mind 

Troubles of sickness

Troubles of guilt feelings 

Troubles of greed vs generosity

Troubles of revenge vs forgiveness

So like wise there are plenty of troubles in our spiritual life 

*6) Troubles in my Life*

What are the troubles I go through every day in my life 

Troubles of health

Troubles of finance

Troubles of security

Troubles of social status 

Troubles of property

Troubles of wealth 

Troubles of greed 

Troubles of anger 

Troubles of jealousy

Troubles of spirituality

Troubles of generosity

Troubles of rejection

Troubles of isolation 

Troubles of loneliness

Troubles of emotional life 

Troubles of bodily passions 

Troubles of responsibility

Troubles of faithfulness

Troubles of prayer life 

Troubles of daily work 

Troubles of family members

Troubles of property disputes 

Troubles of selfishness

Troubles of fear and anxiety 

Life is filled with Troubles. There is a trouble in everything. But how do I look at these troubles?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Great Lessons Ascension of the Lord

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Seventh Week : Sunday*

*The Ascension of the Lord*

*Gospel : Mk 16:15-20*

*First Reading : Acts 1:1-11*

*Second Reading Eph 4:1-7, 11-13*

*The Great Lessons Ascension of the Lord*

*1) Jesus has accomplished His Mission*

Jesus was sent by the Father to the World with a definite mission 

The Ascension into Heaven is the Last Part of Salvation History or Jesus' mission 

This also reminds us that Jesus has accomplished the mission which was entrusted by the Father 

*2) Heaven is the Reward for His mission*

Jesus was taken up to heaven after he was raised from the dead. 

Ascending into Heaven in this context is considered as the reward or the greatest reward for accomplishing the mission given by the Father 

So heaven is a great reward for the good work we do in this world

*3) Purpose of our Life*

The feast of the Ascension shows the purpose of our life 

Our life does not end in this world, but has different destiny to achieve 

It is an encouragement, for the followers of Jesus to prepare themselves to reach to this place 

*4) The momentariness of this World*

The World is only a place to render  service and to proclaim the Good News 

It can never be a permanent place for the human beings to live 

The very fact Jesus went up to heaven, our life is destined to heaven 

This shows the momentariness of this World

*5) Opportunity to think about Heaven and erenal life*

This feast also inspires us to reflect about heaven and Eternal life 

Christ, after accomplishing His Mission went up to heaven

This incident in the life of Jesus, is an opportunity to think about Heaven, Heavenly virtues, the way to heaven, purpose of life, the challenges which come on our way,  and our own weakness

May Jesus who ascends to heaven, help us to ascend into heaven

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Now I am leaving the world : A great Truth

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Sixth Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 16:23b-28*

*First Reading : Acts 18:23-28*

*Now I am leaving the world :  A great Truth*

*1) A great fact of Life*

Jesus had come into the world, with a special mission 

When he realised that he had accomplished his mission, he was ready to go to the Father

That's why Jesus says, I am leaving the World and going back to the Father 

*2) We have to leave the World*

There is no choice here. Like Jesus we have come into the World. In fact we have been sent by the Lord, to this world with a specific mission 

After accomplishing this mission, one has to leave the World and go back to the Father 

This is the great truth of our life  

*3) Behavior contrary to this fact*

Even though leaving the world is a bitter truth and a reality, many live their life as if world is their permanent house 

They try to accumulate as much as money, property, wealth, and things, thinking that they will help them to live their life here on earth permanently 

But the fact is nothing can allow the human life to exist here on earth permanently. This is the fact 

*4) Realization that one has to leave the World*

When a person is aware that one has to leave this world Sooner or later, the lifestyle and the attitude changes accordingly 

This realisation brings a great change which makes the life of the person more meaningful, effective, and Holy 

The attitude towards money, wealth, and property also changes and the use of these things becomes very meaningful in our life 

*5) Momentariness of this World*

The expression, *Now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.”* shows the momentariness of this world

World and worldly things only a passing phenomena in our life 

Life has to pass through this world, and it should enter into a new world. This is the great fact of our life 

*6) How about my Thinking?*

What is my realisation about this world? 

Have I realised the momentariness of this world and one day I have to depart from this world? 

Since Jesus knew this fact very well, He was not attached to any of the worldly things. So leaving the world was not a big issue for Jesus 

Is it a great sacrifice for me to leave this world? 

If I have to leave this world, in the near future, how about my preparations?/

 Am I attached too much to this world?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Things, which can't be stolen from another

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Sixth Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 16:20-23*

*First Reading : Acts 18:9-18*

*Things, which can't be stolen from another*

*1) No one can steal the art of making honey*

Once a Bird asked a Bee, 'you work so hard, to get honey & people steal that from you, don't you feel sad?'

Bee replied, 'no, becoz they can never steal my art of making honey!'

There are things which we can't steal from another 

*2) No one will take your joy away from you*

In today's Gospel we have a great prophesy in above words 

The Joy which we feel from the Gospel values, no one can steal from our life 

So it is very important to reflect what is that joy which others can't steal from our life 

*3) Joy from Forgiveness*

There is a great joy when we forgive others with a sincere heart 

The joy which we feel when we forgive others can't be explained. It can only be experienced 

So such a joy can't be stolen by anyone in anyway 

That is the power of the joy from forgiveness

*4) Joy from generosity*

Like forgiveness there is a great joy in generosity or in sharing 

When we share God bless us in multiple ways. In addition we also feel a strong joy arising from practicing the value of generosity

*5) Joy from sacrifice and suffering*

Sacrifice and sufferings are very hard. It needs special strength to face in life 

But the end result is always very positive, which creates deeper joy in our life. Such a joy can't be stolen from another 

*6) Other things which can't be stolen from another*

Joy arising from service 

Joy arising from agapeic  love 

Joy arising from truthfulness

Joy arising from faithfulness

Joy arising from humility

Joy arising from smile 

Joy arising from hard work 

Joy arising from spirituality

Joy arising from good works 

*7) The Loss of Joy*

The joy arising from money is stolen when we lose money 

The joy from wealth, property, power, position, authority, pleasure, drugs, and other things, when they are lost or stolen by some one else. 

These things can be easily stolen by someone else

What about my life? 

What is the source of my joy? 

Have I ever experienced the joy of the Gospel values?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

What is this ‘little while’ of which he speaks?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Sixth Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 18:16-20*

*First Reading : Acts 18:1-8*

*“What is this ‘little while’ of which he speaks?*

*1) The phrase Little While and 7*

 The phrase, “a little while” appears 7 times in this passage. 

As we  know, “7” is a very important number in the Bible.  It signifies completeness or fullness. 

It points to the last things, the end of time.  In the Book of Genesis, on the 7th day of creation, the Lord rests.  

The work of creation is completed so there is a Sabbath rest.

But this points to a final Sabbath rest that will come only in heaven.  

In the Book of Revelation, there are the 7 seals that are broken open as the final destiny of the world is revealed.  

The final meaning of human history is made known as the 7 seals are broken open by the Lamb who was slain.

*2) The meaning of the phrase*

The phrase  “little while” is mixed up with this theme of seeing and not seeing the Lord.  

Jesus says *“A little while and you will no longer see me, and again a little while later and you will see me.”*

We do not see the Lord, at present, but this lasts only a little while.  In just a little while we will see the Lord. 

It won’t be long before we see the Lord in full splendor, in the glory of heaven, either by his return in the Second Coming or in our meeting him after death.  It will be just a little while. 

At the moment we are in this “little while” of not seeing the Lord.  We now walk by faith not by sight.  But it will only be a “little while” until we are seeing the Lord, face-to-face, heart-to-heart.  

*3) Our responsibility and the phrase little while*

This little while also speaks about the Shortness of our life 

Our life is very Short. That does not mean that we need to lose our hope. We must be firm in our spiritual life, in our service and in bearing witness to Christ 

Those who are faithful in *little while*, will be faithful in eternity

*4) Little While and Eternity*

This little while refers to our earthly life 

This life is very short, filled with challenges, difficulties, sickness and pain 

At times amidst of all these things, it appears that the Lord is absent. In fact the Lord is not absent 

Our life lived in *Little While* has the direct link to the life in eternity 

So we need to take seriously the life in *Little While*

*5) My life and the Little While*

How do I see my life in Little While?

What is my reaction, when I am not be see the Lord, for a little while? 

How does the little while influences my life?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

As Christians, the need of taking everything from Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Sixth Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 16:12-15*

*First Reading : Acts 17:15, 22-18:1*

*As Christians, the need of taking everything from Jesus*

*1) He will take from what is mine and declare it to you*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus speaks about the coming of the Holy Spirit

Jesus also reveals certain important fact about the workings of the Holy Spirit

He is the Spirit of truth

He will guide you to all truth

He will not speak on his own

He will speak what he hears

He will declare to you the things that are coming

He will glorify me,

He will take from what is mine and declare it to you.

This shows that everything comes from Jesus and Holy Spirit takes everything from Jesus 

*2) The content of the things taken from Jesus*

Truth

Responsibility to guide and protect 

All the Gospel values : facilitating to understand and to remember them to live a good and holy life 

The future revelation, especially about the challenges and persecution

He will not speak on his own. Everything comes from Jesus 

*3) The Bible is the Greatest Source*

As the Holy Spirit, took everything from Jesus, we need to take everything from Jesus 

All the things which Jesus had given found in the Sacred Scripture

Bible is the greatest source which helps us to take all that is necessary to live a meaningful life 

Observing the Gospel values means we take everything from Jesus 

*4) What is My Source to receive good things?*

As we know that we receive lots of things in our day to day life. In this context, what is my Source? from where do I receive the things? 

Every moment we need many things. We are dependant beings. 

If so, what is my source? From where do I get the things?

*5) Important things which we are supposed to receive from Jesus*

The spirit of forgiveness

The spirit of humility

The spirit of simplicity

The spirit of Love 

The spirit of sacrifice

The spirit of generosity

The spirit of selflessness

The spirit of service

The spirit of truthfulness 

The spirit of patience

All these things we need to receive from Jesus and need to give to others

Am I ready to receive things from Jesus?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The departure of Jesus and the arrival of the Advocate

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Sixth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 16:5-11*

*First Reading : Acts 16:22-34*

*The departure of Jesus and the arrival of the Advocate*

*1) Departure and the Arrival*

The Gospel of the day presents to us the two beautiful realities of our life 

Departure and the Arrival. The departure of Jesus and the arrival of the Advocate

Both these realities are very important for our life 

*2) Each one has their Role*

In the salvation history, Jesus had his role 

To take the human form, live with the human being, to preach them the good news,  to liberate them through the passion, death and the resurrection 

When Jesus accomplished His mission he was ready to go to heaven 

To continue the mission he sent the Advocate. This is the beautiful link in the salvation history

*3) The Role of the Holy Spirit*

First of the Holy Spirit will glorify Christ for the great mission 

The Holy Spirit will glorify Jesus through the followers of Jesus 

Giving them special strength, wisdom, courage, preaching skills and motivation to live a  exemplary life 

Through this mission the followers of Jesus will glory Him always 

*4) The Holy Spirit's work still continues*

The sanctification work of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate continues forever 

This work needs continuation because of the nature of human being 

Human being by nature is weak and needs divine assistance through the Holy Spirit 

So its a process and it continues forever 

*5) Departure and Arrival in our Life*

Both these concepts are very important in our life 

The departure of Jesus gives a new entry to the Advocate

This also applies in our life building the new leadership to continue the mission 

Holding on to the position, authority, power and not allowing the new leadership to grow is against the spirit of the Gospel 

When we have done our mission we must be ready to allow others to take leadership and continue our mission 

Am I ready for this shift??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Spirit of Truth in my Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Sixth Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 15:26-16:4a*

*First Reading : Acts 16:11-15*

*The Spirit of Truth in my Life*

*1) The reality of the Spirit of Truth*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the Spirit of Truth, who proceeds from the Father,

It is who sends the Spirit of Truth from the Father 

The spirit of Truth, deals with the truth and truth only 

*2) The work of the Spirit of Truth*

He will help us to understand the teachings of Jesus 

He will help us to face the persecution 

He will fight taking our side like an advocate

He will fill us with his gifts and talents 

*3) The reception of the Spirit of Truth*

All Christians receive the spirit of truth at the time of Baptism 

Once again we receive the spirit of Baptism at the time of confirmation 

Each time when we receive the sacraments we get the  experience of the spirit of Truth 

In fact the life of a Christian is filled with the Spirit of Truth 

*4) The Spirit of Truth and the World*

Today the world is governed by the lies 

There are thousands who try to make lie as truth 

The world is filled with the darkness of lies 

Every sphere of life we see that lies donate every reality of our life 

In this context as a Christian who has received the Spirit of Truth, what is my responsibility? 

*5) How truthful I am?*

A Christian is called upon and anointed to live under the  inspiration of the Spirit of Truth 

If so, what is the influence of the Spirit of Truth in my life? 

How truthful I am in my life? 

How sincere I am to myself? 

How sincere I am to my friends? 

How sincere I am to my family members? 

How sincere I am to my Lord? 

How sincere I am to my neighbors? 

How sincere I am to my duty and responsibilities? 

Am I cooperating with the Spirit of Truth? 

Am I allowing the Spirit of truth to control my life?

What are the blocks which hinder the workings of the Spirit of truth 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*

Jesus' Catechism on Love

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Sixth Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 15:9-17*

*First Reading : Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48*

*SECOND READING - 1 Jn 4:7-10*

*Jesus' Catechism on Love*

*1) 9 Times about Love*

The Gospel makes the reference to *Love 9 times*

The second reading from the Letter of First John makes the mention of *Love  9 times*

This shows the importance of the topic of today's liturgy 

In a way Jesus is giving us a good catechism on Love

*2) Love comes from God*

God is Love and Love is God 

God is the source of Love. Therefore one who is able to love knows God. One who is not able to love, does not know God 

Love is the direct way to know God and to experience Him 

*3) Love and Commandments of God*

Observing the commandments is the best way to Love God. 

Jesus says *If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love,*

Commandments are the best ways to experience Divine Love 

*4) Remaining in Jesus Love*

We wish to remain in well developed area 

We wish to remain in Good health 

We wish to remain in well furnished house

If so, what about remaining in God's Love? 

Have we ever thought about it? 

Remaining in God's love means remaining with God himself 

*5) Nature of Jesus' Love*

Jesus' Love consists in Sacrifice, humility, service, forgiveness, sharing and laying down his life for others 

When Jesus says remain in my love, we need to practice these things to remain in Jesus' Love 

*6) Love which bears fruit that will remain*

The intimate aim of Jesus' love is to produce fruit that will remain forever 

In fact the Love of Jesus is aimed at attaining eternal life, which lasts forever 

By remaining in Jesus' Love we attain eternal life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Persecution and Hatred towards Jesus and His Followers

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season: Fifth Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 15:18-21*

*First Reading : Acts 16:1-10*

*The Persecution and Hatred towards Jesus and His Followers*

*1) The Fact of persecution and Hatred*

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks about the Hatred and Persecution, towards Him and His followers

What Jesus revealed in today's Gospel about hatred and persecution, had become true in the History of the Church 

Persecution started during the time of Jesus, continues today and we are the witnesses to this fact 

Today a large number of people are being persecuted all over the world, because of the name of Jesus

*2) The type hatred and persecution*

What good can come from Galilee? Belittling a person 

Is he not Carpenter's Son? An attitude of  insult 

He has become mad : an insane person is seen in Jesus 

We don't have a King but Caesar. They made man as God and Jesus came across to them as insignificant person 

Jesus was humiliated, misinformation about his mission and about family, physically he was beaten, tortured and cruelly crucified. 

This is the way Jesus was persecuted and hated by His own people 

*3) “If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first.*

The life of Jesus shows that he was persecuted and hated by many 

Jesus also reveals that if they have hated me, they will also hate you 

Accordingly in the History of the Church, His followers have been persecuted, hated and many of them were killed for the sake of Jesus 

So, the way of the followers is nothing other than the way of Jesus 

*4) Reasons for Hatred and Persecutions*

Fight against injustice

Fight against illiteracy

Fight against ignorance

Fight against the human slavery

Fight against inequality

Fight against exploration

Fight against discrimination

Fight against superstitious beliefs 

Fight against that greedy people 

Fight against the Worldly values 

*5) How about my Life?*

Am I ready to accept the teachings of Jesus on persecution?

Am I ready to suffer for Jesus? 

Do I give up for little things?

How strong I am to face persecution and hatred? 

Is my life governed by the Worldly Values or heavenly values?  

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*