Family at Bethany, with great Qualities

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventeenth Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 11:19-27 or Lk 10:38-42*

*First Reading : 1 Jn 4:7-16*

*Family at Bethany, with great Qualities*

*1) Family at Bethany*

The family of Mary, Martha and Lazarus was very dear to Jesus 

Many times Jesus used to visit this family, spend some time with them and teach them many things 

We have great qualities to learn from this family, which are very important for our families 

*2) Mary - Significance of Prayer*

Mary is the one who sat at the feet of Jesus listening to Him attentively 

This represents the aspect of spirituality and the importance of spiritual activities in the family 

Listening the word of God, spending time with the Lord through prayers and building relationship with the Lord, are some of the important things we learn from Mary 

*3) Martha - The significance of Work*

Martha represents the work which are necessary for the survival of the family 

A family can't survive without the Work. Doing daily work is the only one way to sustain the family 

Work has its origin in God. Jesus says  *My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.”* John 5:17

We are supposed to learn the importance of work in our life 

*4) Lazarus : A hidden Role*

In the house scene at Bethany, the reference to Lazarus is not found except that we learn from else where that Lazarus was the brother of Mary and Martha 

So Lazarus is depicted as the hidden figure of the family 

This figure represents the silent hidden and recognised work, (both spiritual and material) that has to be done for the survival of the family 

All our work may not be seen by the others. Many a times we must play *behind the screen role* for the success of any activity in our life 

Working without recognition, name and fame is very important for a family 

Without this nothing would survive

*5) Three Roles in Life*

Mary, Martha and Lazarus give us the three great and important roles for each one of us to make our life meaning and goal oriented one

Without these three great values neither our personal life or our family life would survive 

This feast reminds us to reflect these three great qualities in our life and also in our family life 

Am I ready to follow the examples of the members of Family of Bethany?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Wasting is a Crime

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventeenth Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Jn 6:1-15*

*First Reading : 2 Kgs 4:42-44*

*SECOND READING - Eph 4:1-6*

*Wasting is a Crime*

*1) Careful use of the resources*

One of the themes of today's Gospel would be the wise use of the resources

After performing the miracle of feeding the 5000 Jesus tells his disciples to *“Gather the fragments left over, so that nothing will be wasted.”*

This little information is very important to reflect about the use of the resources and our responsibility towards the resources

*2) Wasting food is a crime*

The Gospel specifically speaks about the food that the people had 

They ate bread and fish. After their meals Jesus tells them to collect the left over things  

Jesus didn't allow them to waste food 

Today in every function lots of food that is wasted. Its really a crime. 

One one side people die without food. On the other side people waste food. This is really a crime 

*3) Wasting means more production*

When things are used properly there is no waste 

Waste happens when things are not used properly or when things are produced in an excessive way 

More production means more resources are used or more resources are wasted 

Depletion of the resources will endanger the life of every species

*4) spiritual resources*

Like material resources God has given us the spiritual and other resources as well 

The resources like, intelligence, wisdom, physical strength, feelings, power to see, feel, hear, and to experience various things etc 

Spiritual resources like, desire to pray, love, sacrifice, share, to forgive, to be happy, to support and encourage etc 

The resource of time, and our inner faculties to make wise decisions

So God has filled us with lots of resources 

*5) Not using the resources is equal to Waste*

When it comes to spiritual resources and various God given skills, if they are not used in a proper way, they are really wasted 

God has not given us the resources to waste, but to make wise use of the things 

By using them we can grow in our life in a better way 

*6) The Resources in my Life*

God has given me the special resources to make use in my life 

How do I make use if these things? 

Do I use them? or do I waste them? 

What are the resources God has given me? 

Do I use them for my personal use or for the grow of others as well? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Threat to the Kingdom of Heaven

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Sixteenth  Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 13:24-30*

*First Reading : Jer 7:1-11*

*Threat to the Kingdom of Heaven*

*1) The effort to build the Kingdom of Heaven*

The Gospel of the day highlights the divine efforts to build the kingdom of heaven on this earth 

The seeds of the Kingdom of God are sown continuously on this earth 

We are the custodians of these seeds to protect and to allow them to grow 

*2) The Effort by the Devil*

On the other side, there is a devil, there is evil, which is continuously working against the establishment of the Kingdom of Heaven 

The evil works without making much noise. It works silently and tries to destroy the kingdom of heaven 

*3) The need to be alert*

The Gospel makes it very clear that, evil works when every one was asleep 

This aspect highlights the importance of being alert in protecting the good seeds 

By being alert once can definitely chase the devil who comes with the seeds of weeds to be sown among the good seeds 

*4) The difficulty to identify the evil things*

There is a difficulty to differentiate the wheat from the weeds 

Since both are sown with little difference of time, they sprout together with the wheat 

Both appear similar in the initial days. So one can't differentiate very easily

This forces the sower to allow both the things to grow 

*5) The danger of evil things*

The danger first of all consists in identifying what is evil 

It silently grows with the Good things 

At times it may over power the good things and may make the good seeds useless 

Once sown  the weeds can't remove very easily. One has to allow them to grow. This may be dangerous for the growth of good seeds 

*6) The evil in the present context*

The evil one came in the night and sow the seeds of weeds

In today's context the evil comes in different forms with the seeds of weeds 

The seeds of weeds are sown in our life by the following 

The abuse of  social Media

The misuse  of internet

The misuse of  mobile 

The greed for money, power, position, authority etc 

The attitude of narrow mentality 

The laxity in spiritual life 

All these sow the seeds of weeds which destroy our life 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Heart : One in Four

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Sixteenth  Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 13:18-23*

*First Reading : Jer 3:14-17*

*Heart : One in Four*

*1) Parable of the Sower and the four different places*

The parable of the sower distinguishes four different places while sowing the seeds 

The path way, the rocky ground, the area with thorny bushes and the place where good soil is found 

In the parable these are four different places, in which the seeds fell, while sowing 

*2) One Heart with Four places*

When we apply this parable our life, the place of sowing the seeds of the word of God is our own heart or life 

There is only one heart. There can't be four hearts. But the same heart can have mixture of four different areas

So one place with four different outlooks can be seen

*3) Heart and Pathway*

Some of the hearts are like pathways. 

Whatever is sown is eaten by the birds. These birds are nothing but the evil one in our spiritual life 

Pathway is used by some one else for walking. It is the devil who takes our heart for its evil purpose

*4) Heart and Rocky Ground*

This is another variant of the heart. In the parable it is the second place where the seeds fell 

They sprouted but could not survive, because of the lack of roots 

Heart with a rocky ground can't help the seed to have strong roots for the survival

Heart with rocky ground finally destroys all the seeds 

*5) Heart with Thorn bushes*

It gives opportunity for unwanted things than the good seed. 

When Unwanted wordly things grow in the heart, they don't allow the seed to grow and produce good fruit 

*6) Heart with Good Soil*

The seed produced good fruit. 

Heart with Good soil always produces good fruit. 

*7) The Challenge to my Heart*

What type of heart I have 

Heart similar to pathway? 

Heart similar to rocky ground? 

Heart similar to thorny bushes? 

Heart with Good soil? 

We need to find out the situation of my heart and its usefulness for the seed

Need to concentrate to clear that stones and thorny bushes to make it fruitful for the seed 

Need to open the pathway for the inflow of God's grace to make the soil more fertile 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Faith Journey of St James

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Sixteenth  Week : Thursday*

*Feast of St James the Apostle*

*Gospel : Matt 20:20-28*

*First Reading : 2 Cor 4:7-15*

*The Faith Journey of St James*

*1) Fishermen James*

St James the brother of John, was the Son of Zebedee

Salome was his mother 

It is believed that he was the first cousin of our Lord 

By profession he was a fishermen, at the Lake of Galilee

*2) The Apostle James*

James was called by Jesus along with his brother John and Peter and his brother Andrew 

While he was fishing at the Lake Galilee Jesus called him to become the fishers of Men 

Since then he followed Jesus and become one among the 12 followers of Jesus, whom Jesus called as Apostles

*3) The Ambitious James*

The Gospel of the day shows the another side of James 

He had a great desire of worldly power and position 

So along with his mother and brother he comes to Jesus to place a request through his mother 

The request for the position in the right and left, so that they could enjoy all benefits arising from the power and position

*4) The Specially Loved James*

James also enjoyed a special place among the disciples 

Along with Peter and John, James also had special place 

They often symbolise, faith, hope and Charity

They were privileged to witness our Lord raising to life the daughter of Jairus, His Transfiguration, and finally His own agony at Gethsemane

*5) The Martyred James*

He was the first Apostle to be martyred for faith 

In the Year 43 AD Herod Agrippa I beheaded him, because he was one of the leading men in the rapidly growing church 

So finally he was able to bear witness to Christ through His blood, which is the greatest sacrifice 

*6) Great Lessons from James*

He began with a simple fishermen 

After being called by Jesus, he had strong desire for worldly things, power and position 

Jesus trained him, at times rebuked him and finally he realised His call for spreading the Gospel of Jesus 

In spite of all his weakness, Jesus never withdrew the Love which he has for James. 

Such a Love, led James dedicate his life fully to Jesus 

The inspiring faith Journey of James shows us that anyone who wishes to follow Jesus can attain great spiritual heights, with the grace of God

Am I ready to follow Jesus like St James?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Rich Soil Surrounded by Other Things

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Sixteenth  Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 13:1-9*

*First Reading : Jer 1:1, 4-10*

*Rich Soil Surrounded by Other Things*

*1) Rich Soil with Other Things*

The parable of the sower gives us the idea of soil with different things 

There was a good soil which produced good yeild 

There was a soil with Thorn bushes, which didn't allow the seed to grow 

There was also the soil with rock, which didn't allow the roots of the seed to grow, hence didn't yield any fruit 

There was also the soil with path way. Since the soil was very hard and was used for waking, seed fell on it were eaten by the birds of the air 

*2) The place of the Soil*

Definitely the good soil was found in the field 

The pathway was the edge of the field which was attached to the boundaries of the good soil 

The soil with rock and the soil with thorn bushes were  found either within in the feild or adjacent to the good soil 

*3) Action required if, Found within the Field*

If the soil with rock and the soil with thorn bushes was found within the field, the immediate action which needed is to clean up the feild 

First of all one needs to uproot all the thorn bushes and make it as fruitful feild 

Secondly, if the rocks or stones are found within the feild, then it should be removed from the field and need to turn the feild into good soil 

*4) If found, outside the Feild*

First of all, in this situation, one should be careful to protect the good soil 

Secondly, one should take maximum care so that the thorn bushes and the stones do not enter the good soil 

Thirdly one should try even to clean the surrounding, by removing the thorn bushes and the Stones, even though they are not found in the feild 

By improving the surroundings, one can produce better crop 

*5) Parable of the sower and our Life*

Our life consists with all the realities of the parable

If good soil is found in our life then there is no much problem 

But if the soil is mixed with stones and thorn bushes we need to remove those things to make it good soil 

It is certain that our life is surrounded by the stones and thorn bushes of various things. Unless we remove those things we can't produce good fruit 

*6) Realities of Stones and thorn bushes*

Our life is mixed and surrounded by these above things 

The stones and thorn bushes of pride 

The stones and thorn bushes of revenge

The stones and thorn bushes of anger

The stones and thorn bushes of jealousy

The stones and thorn bushes of laziness

The stones and thorn bushes of greed

The stones and thorn bushes of worldly things, power, position, pleasure, wealth, etc 

Unless we clear these things we can't produce good fruit

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Blood Relationship and Faith Relationship

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Sixteenth  Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Matthew 12:46-50*

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

*Blood Relationship and Faith Relationship*

*1) Two types of Relationship*

In the Gospel of the day, we have two types of relationship

Blood relationship, which exists in the family 

Faith Relationship which exists between God and His children

*2) Blood Relationship*

It is commonly known that blood relationship is one of the strongest relationship which exists in the World 

Blood relationship exists between the family members 

This relationship is very strong between parents and Children and between the siblings 

It is very hard and difficult to break this relationship  

*3) Faith Relationship*

There also exists another level of relationship, which is faith relationship

Jesus draws our attention to this particular relationship 

He is calling us to rise above the blood relationship to faith relationship when is asks the crowd *Who is my Mother?  Who are my brothers?*

When he stretches his hand towards his disciples to tell *Here are my mother and bothers* this relationship gets a new level of understanding in God's family 

*4) Sacrifice of blood relationship for Faith relationship*

One of the common phenomenon which we see in the followers of Jesus 

They are ready to sacrifice the strong blood relationship in order to establish the faith relationship with the Lord 

That's why Jesus says *If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.* Luke 14:26

*5) Faith Relationship is Superior relationship*

Among all relationship faith relationship comes first 

God has primarily created us for the faith relationship 

Blood relationship and all other types of relationships are only various channels to strengthen the Faith Relationship

Even after having all types of relationship, and finally one mises the faith relationship, life seems to be useless and becomes aimless 

Without faith relationship, life becomes aburd and full of chaos and confusion

*6) My Faith Relationship*

How is my faith Relationship?

What is the importance do I give to this particular relationship? 

How do I use the various things like, prayer, Sacraments, bible, novenas, devotions, retreats and other spiritual exercises, which strengthen the Faith Relationship? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Empty Tomb was not Empty for Mary Magdalene

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Sixteenth  Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Jn 20:1-2, 11-18*

*First Reading : Sg 3:1-4b or 2 Cor 5:14-17*

*Feast of Mary Magdalene*

*Empty Tomb was not Empty for Mary Magdalene*

*1) Empty Tomb and Mary Magdalene*

Mary Magdalene is one of the close disciples of Jesus 

She loved Jesus more than anything else and Jesus also love her in a special way 

Love is the only one thing which explains why she was found early in the morning where Jesus was laid in the Tomb 

So there is a close connection to the Empty tomb and Mary Magdalene

*2) Empty Tomb*

Empty tomb is a concept which is associated with the resurrection of Jesus 

When Mary Magdalene came early on Sunday morning, the body of Jesus was not found in the tomb

The tomb was open but then there was no body of Jesus in it 

So the tomb became empty. So this is the concept of empty tomb 

*3) Empty tomb was not Empty*

At the peripheral level empty tomb is totally empty which has nothing 

But for Mary Magdalene empty tomb was not empty. Empty tomb was full of things which finally showed the resurrection of Jesus

So what are the things which were found in the empty tomb for Mary Magdalene?

*4) The Rich things in the Empty tomb*

*Search for the beloved* Empty tomb had this search in it 

*Divine vision* Two angels appeared at the tomb to reveal the good news 

*Great News* The news of the resurrection was found in the empty tomb 

*Emptiness of Jesus* The empty tomb also was full with the reality of the emptiness of Jesus. The emptiness of Jesus was seen everywhere 

*Many Questions* The empty tomb was filled with many questions about the life and death of Jesus

*Fear and Anxiety* The empty tomb also had the aspect of a kind of fear and anxiety in Mary when she saw the empty tomb 

*New Light* Empty tomb was filled with new light. That is the light of Hope

*Dialogue* The empty tomb had a special dialogue, first with the Angels and then with the Risen Lord

*Risen Lord* The empty tomb was filled with the reality of the Risen Lord. From the empty tomb finally Mary experiences the resurrection of Jesus 

*Mission* Empty tomb had a great mission for Mary. Jesus from empty tomb told her to proclaim this great good news to his disciples 

*New Beginning* The empty tomb had the aspect of New beginning in the life of Mary Magdalene 

*Happiness* The Empty tomb had the aspect of Happiness for Mary. When she saw the Risen Lord, her happiness was tremendous. Empty tomb was full of heavenly happiness

*Encounter of Divine and Human* empty tomb had this encounter. Both these aspects we see. Jesus and Mary along with Peter and John. Empty tomb is full of divine encounter

*5) Empty Tomb in our life*

All of us have the experience of empty tomb. 

Never to consider empty tomb as empty. In fact empty tomb is filled with great realities which help us to encounter God and to find the purpose of our life

We need to cultivate the attitude to looking at the empty tomb from a different perspective. 

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*

Role and Responsibility of the Shepherd

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

Ordinary Season: Sixteenth  Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 6:30-34*

*First Reading : Jer 23:1-6*

*SECOND READING - Eph 2:13-18*

*Role and Responsibility of the Shepherd*

*1) Liturgy on Shepherd*

The Liturgy of the day calls us to reflect about the role, importance and and responsibility of the Shepherds 

How crucial is the role of the shepherd, the crisis that takes place when the shepherd fails in his responsibility and the repercussions of the failure is beautifully explained in today's readings 

This also calls us to reflect about our responsibility as shepherds of our own little flock - that is the family 

*2) The Gross failures of the Shepherds*

*First reading*

God had chosen many shepherds to take care of His flock. Instead of taking care of the flock they failed in their responsibility 

Their failure is seen in these things 

They misled the flock 

They scattered the flock 

They drove the flock away from God

They didn't take care of the flock 

*Result is*

The flock went away from God and went into exile

The shepherds were punished by God 

The shepherds were removed from their position 

God chose new shepherds for taking care of His people

*3) Jesus the Great Shepherd*

*2nd Reading*

Jesus is seen as the model shepherd who does the following things for His people 

*He sacrificed his life for his flock 

*He worked for unity among Jews and Gentiles 

*He abolished those laws which burdened the people and gave only the commandment of Love 

*He worked for peace 

*Brought reconciliation through his death on the Cross, which brought Humankind back to God

*4) Compassionate Jesus*

One of the great qualities of a shepherd 

Compassion consists in the following 

Understanding the others 

Knowing the real situation of others 

Having a non judgmental attitude

Reaching out in their need

Forgiving their faults 

Having a open mind to see the reality 

Working for them without any selfish motives 

Giving right guidance 

Showing them the correct way 

Jesus' compassion consisted in these things. It is not a mear feeling but s reality 

*5)  The Need of the  Shepherds*

Family needs a shepherds

Society needs a shepherd

Ward needs a shepherd

Parish needs a shepherd

Diocese needs a shepherd 

Universal Church needs a shepherd

State and county needs a shepherd

*6) We are responsibile shepherds*

The Shepherd of the Family

Very important and crucial role to play 

Failures in the family responsibility can cause serious problems for the future generation

There are lots of problems among the children and youth of the day 

The primary cause of these problems cab be seen in the family, where responsibile people have failed to play their role

We need to rethink about the responsibile parenthood in the present society

As a shepherd of the family what is my responsibility?

As a shepherd of the community what is my responsibility? 

As a religious shepherd of the flock what is my responsibility? 

Serious questions need to be answered to carry out our role in an effective way

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Pharisees who took counsel for Evil things

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifteenth Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 12:14-21*

*First Reading : Mi 2:1-5*

*Pharisees who took counsel for Evil things*

*1) Taking Counsel/Advice*

This is one of the important areas of our life 

We need to take counsel or advice from expert people for various purpose 

When we are confused in life, when there is a crisis in life, when we are misled by others, when we fail in our life, we need to take counsel 

Taking counsel helps us to know the right things, right ways and to achieve our goal 

In one word all need counsel in one or the other areas to achieve our goals 

*2) Counsel for good and Bad Things*

Advice or counsel can be sought either for achieving our good goals or to do evil things 

Taking advice to do good things will brighten our life and we will have happy and joyful life 

Taking advice for bad things or for evil things will destroy our life and everything in our life 

*3) Pharisees sought counsel for killing Jesus*

The Gospel of the day has this information about Pharisees 

Pharisees took counsel to plan how to kill Jesus and to put an end to Jesus' ministry

It is something crooked and most evil thing to take advice or counsel to put someone to death 

Such a counsel destroys not only our life but also the life of others 

*4) Counsel for evil things and the presence of Jesus*

When they took counsel to kill Jesus, He went away from this place 

It is a symbolic meaning to realise that when someone takes counsel for evil things one can't think of  the presence Jesus 

Taking counsel for evil things itself a act of going away from the presence of God 

When one willfully choses the evil God can't save such a person 

*5) Person who Gives counsel for evil things*

In this scene there is also a person who gives counsel to put Jesus to death 

Such a person is more responsibile and culpable for the evil act that will follow 

Giving advice to take away some ones life directly goes against will of God. Such an a act incurs serious punishment from God 

*6) Counsel in my Life*

How do I deal with the Counsel? 

On what area do I take counsel? 

Does my counsel to set right my own failures and problems? 

Do I take counsel to plot some evil against my enemies, and fellow being?

Do I give counsel for evil or bad things? 

How counsel is beneficial to me? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Reality of Hunger and our response

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifteenth Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 12:1-8*

*First Reading : Is 38:1-6, 21-22, 7-8*

*The Reality of Hunger*

*1) The reaction towards Hunger*

In today's Gospel the word  hunger comes two times 

Both the times the hunger is referred to two different situation 

In the first situation the disciples were hungry and they began to eat the heads of grain

In second situation David and his companions were eating the bread which was reserved for priests in the temple

*2) Hunger can't be postponed*

There are many things in our life which we can postpone to some time 

But there are certain things which we can't postpone. One among them is the Hunger

Therefore the immediate reaction of the disciples of Jesus and David and his companions were, to eat something and satisfy the hunger 

*3) The varieties of Hunger in life*

Apart from the bodily hunger we suffer from many other varieties of hunger 

Spiritual hunger 

Psychological hunger

Emotional hunger

Mental hunger

Hunger for love 

Hunger for relationship

Hunger for companionship

Hunger for peace 

Hunger for happiness

Hunger for recognition

These are the various hunger we experience in our day today life 

*4) Need to attend the Hunger*

As we very well know that, our physical or bodily hunger can't be postponed, the same logic also applies to other areas as well 

One among them is Spiritual hunger. We can't postpone this hunger 

Attempts to postpone this hunger leads to a kind of vacuum in life 

Attempts to postpone this hunger leads to crisis in life, failure in life, destruction in life, meaninglessness in life, breaking of family, depression in life and all other calamities 

So we need satisfy the spiritual hunger as early as possible

*5) Catering the Spiritual Hunger*

There are many ways to cater the spiritual hunger

Personal prayer life 

Community prayer 

Praying of Rosary 

Sacramental adoration

Celebration of the Eucharist 

Faithful to the sacrament  of reconciliation 

Retreats 

Novenas 

Reading of the Bible 

Praying the Bible 

All these will satisfy our hunger 

*6) My Responsibility*

In satisfying the Spiritual hunger, I must take some serious steps 

Primarily it is my responsibility 

For a meaningful life, one must satisfy the spiritual hunger of life 

Unless one satisfies this hunger, all other things become useless

If one has nothing in life, but if he/she able to satisfy the spiritual hunger, he/she will be most satisfied person in life 

He/ she will find  a beautiful meaning for life 

So am I ready to cater the spiritual hunger? 

Or am I trying to postpone the spiritual hunger, giving room for  crisis in life? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Come To me : Jesus' Loving Call

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifteenth Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 11:28-30*

*First Reading : Is 26:7-9, 12, 16-19*

*Come To me : Jesus' Loving Call*

*1) Come to me*

In the New Testament the word *Come* has a special significance 

Jesus calls his first disciples to *Come and See* the place where Jesus lived 

Jesus tells His disciples to *Come* to a lonely place to take some rest 

In today's Gospel Jesus once again calls *Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.*

So there is a special significance to this word 

*2) A loving Invitation*

The calling of Jesus is all time invitation to all those who hear His voice 

He started his ministry by calling people to come to his presence 

Jesus wishes every one comes to him, to experience his divine power and mercy, which will liberate a person from the slavery of sin

*3) There is no other Way*

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6

This is one of the reasons why we have to go to Jesus 

Only though Jesus we can go to eternal life 

Since He is the only way, we need to go to Jesus and Jesus invites all of us to this way 

*4) Never to become a hindrance*

Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” Mt 19:14

This a warning for every one 

There are many who would like to respond to the invitation of the Lord and wants to come to Jesus 

To such persons one should never become a hurdle in their way 

Jesus rebuked his disciples for becoming a hurdle to the little children who wanted to come to Jesus 

*5) The benefits of Coming to Jesus*

The invitation of Jesus is very clear 

*Come to me all who labor and are burdened*

In exchange he will take our burdens and give us lighter yoke 

All of us suffer from the

Burden of sin 

Burden of guilt 

Burden of trails of life 

Burden of sickness

Burden of stress

Burden of anxiety

Burden of social evils 

*6) Various ways of Coming to Jesus*

We can respond to the invitation of Jesus in the following ways 

Sacrament of reconciliation

Celebration of the Eucharist

Sacramental adoration

Prayer life 

Following the Gospel values like, forgiveness, humility, generosity, sacrifice etc 

*7) My readiness*

Jesus' invitation is open to all and at any time

What about my response? 

Am I ready to come to Jesus? 

What are my hurdles to come to Jesus? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Learned Vs Child like

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifteenth Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 11:25-27*

*First Reading : Is 10:5-7, 13b-16*

*Learned Vs Child like*

*1) Two categories of People*

In today's Gospel Jesus mentions two categories of people 

Wise and learned people, secondly the Child like people 

God's revelation is hidden from the learned people 

God's revelation is given to the child like people 

Why such a difference between these two? 

*2) Wise or Learned people*

During the time of Jesus scribes and Pharisees could be considered as wise and learned people 

They were teachers of the law and they were scholars 

They knew about religion, about scriptures, about the prophesies of Messiah, and many other things 

They were experts in many other ways 

That's why they were considered wise and learned people 

*3) Child like People*

These are the Apostles of Jesus and also those who believe and followed Jesus 

These were fishermen folk, uneducated but simple people who were not intelligent like the scribes and Pharisees 

They believed what Jesus said and followed him 

In other words their attitude was like the child, who believes completely on the parents and follows them 

Here the Apostles and other simple people simply followed Jesus because of their child like attitude 

*4) Pride and Humility*

The pride of scribes and Pharisees didn't allow their to have a great revelations from God 

They considered themselves as knowing everything and there isn't anything, which they can learn from Jesus

They were not ready to listen to Jesus. 

As a result they missed the great revelations from God 

Where as the simple people like apostles and others had great virtue of humility, which made them open up themselves to the revelation of God 

Finally these people received great revelations from God

*5) What is my attitude?*

One needs humility and child like trust and faith in God to have great revelations from God 

Do I have the qualities of a child? 

Jesus says, *“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.* Mt 18:3

What is blocking in my life to become like a child? 

My pride

My arrogance

My self righteousness

My ego

My sinful life

My anger

My jealousy

My confidence in material things? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Harsh Judgement for God's own People?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifteenth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 11:20-24*

*First Reading : Is 7:1-9*

*Harsh Judgement for God's own People?*

*1) God's Judgment*

The Gospel of the day speaks about God's judgment 

*God's Judgement* is a reality. No one can escape from this reality 

The Gospel tells us about the tolerable judgement and the harsh Judgement for various towns

Why such a discrimination about it? 

*2) Tolerable judgment*

The Gospel has three names of the town. They are Tyre, Sidon and Sodom 

All these three are non Jewish cities

People of these cities had no much privileges to know about God and about salvation

Moreover they were considered by the Jewish people as sinners, who are not eligible 

In such situation if Jesus had done few great things, people would have repented and changed their lives 

Therefore these people will have less tolerable judgement

*3) Harsh Judgement*

There are also other three cities mentioned in the Gospel 

Chorazin,  Bethsaida and Capernaum

All these were Jewish territories

It means people of these cities had greater awareness about the Messiah, about salvation, about Yahweh, about faithfulness to God and about religion

Over and above Jesus had spent much of His time in performing great miracles or mighty works in these cities

Jesus also highlighted the importance of repentance and changing ones life for the sake of salvation

In spite of all these, they never repentaned and changed their lives 

They had more privileges to change their life, but simply ignored it 

That is why these will have very harsh judgement 

*4) Christians are privileged people*

As Christians we are more privileged people in many ways 

To know about God, to know about the forgiveness, to know about the service, charity, love, humility, importance of prayer, moral values and many other things 

We have great things to help us in our earthly journey. For example Bible, Word of God, Church, Sacraments, enlightened people to guide us 

There are also so many mighty works are taking place in our daily lives, which are worked by Our Lord Jesus Christ 

We who experience all these above things are really privileged people to live a good and upright life 

*5) Harsh Judgement on Christians*

As we know we are privileged people in knowing  and practicing many things 

That does not mean, that we can ignore many more things from our life 

Greater privileges means greater responsibilities

Greater responsibilities means greater accountabilities 

*From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.* Luke 12:48 

*The servant who knows the master's will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows* Luke 12:47 

As Christians, if we neglect our duties and responsibilities, we will face a severe judgment on the last day 

What type of judgment will I have on the last day?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Household enemies of one's Life

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifteenth Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 10:34—11:1*

*First Reading : Is 1:10-17*

*Household enemies of one's Life*

*1) Person's enemies will be those of his own household*

In todays Gospel Jesus says about ones enemies. These enemies will from his/her household

The household has very close relationship to the person

Household refers to ones parents, siblings, children and in-laws

So enemies are from this background

*2) Deeper meaning of the household*

We can consider our life itself is a house. In this house there are multiple things we see 

Some of them work just like the enemies, which do not allow us to grown 

So at times the things from this household trouble us like enemies and we find lots of challenges to face them 

*3) Enemies from the household of our Life*

These are the things which are found in our household 

Pride 

Arrogance

Hypocrisy

Revenge 

Duplicity

Gossip

Anger 

Jealousy

Selfishness

Greed 

Sensual pleasures

*4) Relationship between these enemies*

Father and Son relationship

Daughter and Mother relationship

Daughter in law and mother in law relationship

These three types of relationship symbolise the closeness and despth of relationship 

Some times our relationship with these above enemies would be like the above mentioned relationship 

To break this relationship we need a strong reason and motivation 

*5) Need of breaking the relationship with the Enemies*

One can't keep a good relationship with the enemies even though some times the relationship appear like a strong blood relationship 

Enemies are enemies. We can't trust them. This brings the need of breaking the relationship with the enemies 

One who breaks the relationship with these enemies for the building of the kingdom of God, his/her relationship with the divine remains for eternity

Only with the help of Jesus we can break the our bad relationship with bad things to save our life for eternity

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Take nothing for the journey but a walking stick

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fifteenth Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 6:7-13*

*First Reading : Am 7:12-15*

*SECOND READING - Eph 1:3-14 or Eph 1:3-10*

*Take nothing for the journey but a walking stick*

*1) Only Walking Stick or Staff*

The Gospel of the day has the incident of sending the Apostles for the ministry

As Jesus sends them, Jesus tells them to take only walking stick and nothing else 

Why Jesus is telling them to take only the stick? What is the significance of the stick in the context of proclaiming the Gospel? 

*2) Ancient Cultures and the Staff*

It meant authority. It was a sign of authority 

It was a sign of Worth and right of Government

For the judge it was a sign of his authority to decide over life and death 

It was used by the magicians all over the world to work wonders

*3) Staff in the Old Testament*

In the book of Genesis and Numbers, it was a sign of the Messiah who would come from Israel , who shall crush the enemies 

In Psalms it is referred as *rod of iron* which symbolises the strength of the Staff 

Psalms also refer to it as rod of righteousness, which is necessary for just rule 

In the book of Exodus, in the context of passover meal, the staff held in the hand symbolises the readiness for setting out 

It was a sign of trusting God absolutely, without knowing the end results.  

*4) Moses and the Staff*

The staff of Moses played an important role in the salvation history

*Miracles* It worked as a sign of miracles in the hand of Moses. Moses performed lots of miracles in the presence of Pharaoh, which ultimately  made him to free the people of Israel

*Red/Reed Sea* Moses used the staff to divide the sea, which created a way to pass the people of Israel to the other side 

*Water from Rock* At Refidim when Israelites reached they had no water. At the command of the Lord, Moses strikes the rock and water came out, which satisfied the thirst of the people 

*5) Jesus on Staff*

When Jesus tells them to take the staff, it meant readiness for pilgrimage of faith 

It also a symbol of authority, support and guidance 

It can also be a symbol of courage 

Jesus the Good Shepherd has the staff, which is the symbol of authority and service

*6) Staff, Rod or Stick in our Life*

Today Jesus gives us the variety of sticks to continue our mission 

The stick of service

The stick of forgiveness

The stick of Love 

The stick of humility

The stick of prayer

The stick of sacrifice

The stick of courage

The stuck of faithfulness

The stick of generosity

The stick of truthfulness

The stick of holy Scriptures

Am I ready to take these sticks in my life to continue the mission of the Lord?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

No disciple is above his Teacher

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourteenth Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 10:24-33*

*First Reading : Is 6:1-8*

*“No disciple is above his Teacher*

*1) Jesus is our Master and Teacher*

Jesus is a great teacher. There can not be another teacher who is like Jesus, because of His divinity, divine power to work miracles and his ministry which is oriented towards liberating the fallen humanity 

Nicodemus came to Jesus in the night and acknowledged Jesus as great teacher *“Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”*

*2) We are Jesus' disciples*

All those who follow Jesus are His disciples 

All who acknowledge Jesus as great Master and Lord become his true disciples 

It is also true that we have been chosen by Jesus as His disciples 

So as His disciples we much follow the values of the Master  

*3) We are not greater than Jesus*

In today's Gospel Jesus explains this truth clearly. 

We need to understand this truth from a different perspective

*Comfortable Life* Jesus' life was never a comfortable one from the worldly or from the materialistic point of view. So, living or expecting a luxurious life, with materialistic out look goes against the spirit of the Master 

*Persecutions* Jesus had to face lot of persecutions from His own people. 

As the faithful disciples of Jesus we too are subjected to persecutions. But our persecutions are not greater than our Master 

*Challenges* Jesus had to face many challenges while proclamating the Gospel. 

We are not free from challenges of life. Challenges of health, financial challenges, family challenges, faith challenges and many more. But our challenges are not greater than our Master

*Temptations* Jesus was tempted by Satan. But he defeated the Satan by not yeilding to the temptations. 

We too are tempted by Satan on various levels. 

But one thing is sure, *God will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able*

So we are not greater than our Master in this regard

*Proclamation* Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom of in an effective way. 

We too are called to proclaim the kingdom of God through our life and ministry. But we can't become greater than our master in this regard 

Whatever ministry we may do, inspired by Jesus, we can't go beyond our Master's approach

*4) Great Reminder for Us*

The words of Jesus *“No disciple is above his teacher* is a great warning for us. Because some times there may be tendency to equate oneself with Jesus or to consider oneself is greater than Jesus 

Some people some time may think that they are more powerful preachers and healers, than Jesus. To such persons this is a warning message 

*5) The virtues of Humility and courage*

In the above words of Jesus, these two virtues are powerfully seen

Not to lose the courage in times of persecutions because our challenges are not greater than Jesus  and to adopt the virtue of humility when great things happen in and through us, because of Jesus 

In either cases we can't be greater than our Master

Is there a tendency in me to consider myself as great Master of certain things in life? 

Is my Ego making me greater than My Master? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Shrewd as serpents and simple as doves

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourteenth Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 10:16-23*

*First Reading : Hos 14:2-10*

*Shrewd as serpents and simple as doves*

*1) Serpent and Dove*

Both these creatures are mentioned in the Bible 

Serpent in the First book of the bible in Genesis mentioned as evil, Satan, Tempter and destroyer. It is symbol for wickedness and crookedness

On the other hand Dove is the symbol of the Holy Spirit

Dove has a special significance in the Bible. It represents the Holiness, goodness and gentleness

In today's Gospel Jesus uses these opposite things while warning about the persecutions which they will face while doing their ministry. 

So how to understand this 

*2) Lessons from Both creatures*

Even though they stand for different things, one is for good and the other one is for evil, Jesus wants us to learn a very practical lesson from these creatures

Both these creatures teach us a very powerful lesson, which is very helpful for the followers of Jesus 

*3) Lessons from the Serpent*

Jesus says be shrewd as serpent. The shrewdness of the serpent consists in the following

*Sharpness* The serpent is very sharp in its approach. It can calculate what things are happening around. Jesus says, a follower must have the sharpness of the serpent

*Alertness*  The serpent is very alert in its movement. While moving it is very alert. A follower of Jesus must be alert like the serpent

*Raised Head* When it perceives danger, it raises its head and stands erect. It does not run away from the place. A follower of Jesus must raise his/her head high especially when there is a challenge. Not to run away from the situation. Need to face it 

*Swiftness*  Serpent is very swift in its movement. One should be swift like serpent in our mission 

*Not Lazy* Serpent is not lazy like python. Its very active. A follower should not be like python, which sleeps more than work, but like serpent, which is quick active and alert

*4) Lessons from the Dove*

Jesus says Simple as Dove or Gentle as Dove. The simplicity or the gentle attitude of the dove consists in the following

*Innocence* Dove stands for innocence. A follower should have the quality of innocence, as that of Dove

*Peace* Another symbol of Dove. A follower should always work for peace and not for violence. Kingdom of God is built on peace and not on violence

*Holiness* Dove represents the Holy Spirit, who is the source of Holiness. Holiness is the hallmark of the follower of Jesus, which needs to be learnt from Dove

*Sensitivity* Sensitivity is the another name for gentleness. Jesus was very sensitive to the needs of others. A follower of Jesus must be very sensitive towards the other

*Compassion* Dove is also the symbol of compassion. Jesus was moved with compassion when he saw the crowds without a shepherd. We need to be like dove to have this virtue of compassion

*5) Shrewdness of the serpent and gentleness of the Dove in my life*

These represent two important areas of our life. 

How far have I incorporated the above qualities in my life? 

Am I shrewd and gentle when it comes to the spiritual things? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

If your House is worthy, let your peace come upon it

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourteenth Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 10:7-15*

*First Reading : Hosea 11:1-4, 8-9*

*If your House is worthy, let your peace come upon it*

*1) Peace is the greatest Good*

Peace of mind is the greatest good in life 

To achieve peace in life, people run from one place to another 

To achieve peace in life one is ready to do any sacrifice. 

A person who had lost peaceful mind and life has lost everything 

*2) Condition for peaceful life*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus tell us what is necessary for acquiring peace in our life 

Jesus says, if the house is in order, there will be peace 

If the house is not worthy nothing can help a person to have a peaceful mind 

All those who desire for peace must work first of all to set the order in the House 

*3) Peace comes from God*

The origin of peace is God. One who is united with God can enjoy the pesce 

When Jesus was born there was a reference for peace 

The Resurrected Jesus always addressed his apostles with the greetings of peace 

This shows that peace is really a divine gift 

*4) The Worthy house for Peace*

The Worthy house first of all refers to our own life 

Is my house of life is worthy? 

To make our life as worthy house house we need to live the Gospel values in our life. Unless we adopt these values we can't enjoy peace in our life 

*5) Some of the famous quotes on peace*

Peace begins with a smile. — Mother Teresa

“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself. — Ralph Waldo Emerson

“You cannot find peace by avoiding life.” ― Michael Cunningham

Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” ― Albert Einstein

“Peace comes from within.  Do not seek it without.” ― Siddhārtha Gautama

“You have peace when you make it with yourself.” ― Mitch Albom

*6) The Futile exercise to find peace*

At times people try to find peace in material things 

Having more, either money, wealth, gold, power, position, authority does not create any room for peace 

Its only comes with clean heart and mind 

Making worthy of our own life, by cleansing our own life will help us to live a life filled with peace and Joy

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel - Why?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourteenth Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 10:1-7*

*First Reading : Hos 10:1-3, 7-8, 12*

*Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel - Why?*

*1) God's first house was Israel*

God referred to Israel as “His people” (Deuteronomy 7:6)

His “treasured possession” (Psalm 135:4)

 The “apple of His eye” (Zechariah 2:8). 

From Deuteronomy 7:6-10, we know that God chose Israel when they were small and weak, a people without a land.  

Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah - Jer 31:31

For your husband is your Maker, Whose name is the Lord of hosts; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, Who is called the God of all the earth. Is 54:5

*2) Unfaithful Israel*

Even though God had chosen Israel as his own, Israel failed to remain faithful to the Lord 

Instead they went after other gods, and all evil things in the eyes of the Lord

That's why finally they were taken to the slavery to Babylon

*3) First put Your house in order*

In this context when Jesus says *Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel* it means that the disciples first should go to the people Israel and then towards the other 

The above saying *first put your house in order* really has a great meaning when Jesus commands his disciples to go to Israel 

*4) What is Israel for me?*

Israel is not a place which is situated far away from my place 

First of all Israel represents my own life. I must put in order my life first before I begin the other works 

Secondly, My family - I must try my level best to put order in my family 

Today Jesus says to me *Go rather to the lost members of your household*

Thirdly the neighborhood - which is very important to work together. Setting Order in neighborhood helps us to find our way to heaven 

*5) Urgency of the Mission*

Jesus soon after choosing his disciples gives them the command and authority to begin the mission

Immediately after certain training, they were sent among  the lost sheep of Israel to communicate the Good News

This shows the urgency of one's mission to put order in one's own family and then in other places 

*6) Am I ready for the Mission*

Like the 12, Jesus has chosen all of us to be sent among the lost sheep of the house of Israel 

The first house is my own life. Then comes my family. Thirdly the neighborhood, and society and the world at large 

Whatever dose not begin from my own life, does not continue for long time. It ceases to exist after some time 

So am I ready for this challenging mission? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

“Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourteenth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:32-38*

*First Reading : Hos 8:4-7, 11-13*

*“Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”*

*1) The arrival of Jesus and the Changes*

People of Israel saw something special and different in the life of Jesus 

After the arrival of Jesus there was a lot of changes in the lives of the people of Israel 

Many people were healed from their sickness, people those who were possessed with evil power were liberated, those sicknesses which were not cured were cued by Jesus and some dead people were raised 

So people in Israel saw something special and great things in the life of Jesus 

So they said *“Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”*

*2) Billions of people witness  Divine power of Jesus*

After the arrival of Jesus there have been people all over the world witnessing great things, which the world had never seen before 

For example the power of forgiveness, the power of service, the power of sacrifice, the power of Love, the power of humility and the power of truth and liberation

All these have happened after the arrival of Jesus in the world and especially in our lives 

*3) My arrival and Changes*

Like Jesus I have sent by the heavenly Father into this world

What difference does my life make in a particular place where I live, to the persons whom I relate, in the place where I work? 

This is a very serious and existential question which gives meaning to our life 

What difference my life makes as I live my life in the family and society

If my life does not make any difference at least in the life of one person then my life is useless

*4) Two types of Changes*

A persons arrival into this world can effect two types of changes 

One is a positive change and the other one is negative change 

A follower of Jesus is supposed to bring about positive change which can really help others in many way 

Negative changes always ruin ones life and the life of another 

*5) Make a difference in one persons life*

Mother Theresa once said *If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one.*

Jesus has brought changes in the lives of billions. 

As a follower of Jesus, if I try to bring a change in the life of one person, if not 100, it would be a great achievement of our life 

*6) We are created for greater things*

We are created for great things, especially to bring about a change, which will change this world in to the Kingdom of God 

To bring change first of all I must bring a positive change in my life. Then automatically the change comes in the people with whom I live and in the surrounding where I live 

Am I ready to work for the positive changes?

Looking at my life and my ministry will the people of my place say *Nothing like this has ever been seen in our surroundings*

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you: Beautiful words

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourteenth Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:18-26*

*First Reading : Hos 2:16, 17c-18, 21-22*

*Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you: Beautiful words*

*1) Woman suffering from hemorrhage*

In the Gospel of the day we find a woman who was suffering from hemorrhage

She had suffered for 12 years and had lost everything, all the financial recourses except hope 

*2) Faith of the Woman*

Even though she had lost everything she had not lost the aspect of faith 

With the same faith, she decided to approach Jesus for a divine healing 

Her hope and faith finally prompted her to approach Jesus 

*3) Courage of the Woman*

In fact her sickness had made her to totally cut off from the society

All others treated her as unclean woman, one who is cursed for the sins and like many other things

The society would not accept her coming in the public and that to in the public gathering 

So coming into the public itself was a great challenge for her

In spite of all these hurdles her deep faith in Jesus gave her special courage which made the woman to face all kinds of challenges 

Finally she was able to come into the crowds and was able to touch the garment of Jesus 

 *4) Fear and trembling of the Woman*

Once she touched Jesus, she was healed completely 

She might have felt very happy and wanted to secretly go away from the crowds

But as Jesus began to search for the person who touched Jesus, the woman was frightened about the whole thing, what had happened 

Finally with fear and trembling she comes before Jesus and accepts the whole truth as it is 

*5) The Encounter With Jesus*

The encounter with Jesus changed the entire destiny of woman's life 

The encounter helped the woman to have bodily as well as spiritual healing from Jesus 

*6) The compassion Jesus*

Jesus was on his journey towards the house of the official 

He was on a mission. Suddenly there was a entry of this woman who suffered from hemorrhage

Yet Jesus was not irritated. He was not impatient. He understood the situation of the woman and was very compassionate towards her 

This compassion shows the love of Jesus 

*7) Great Words of encouragement*

The beautiful thing which happens in this incident is that the words of encouragement from Jesus 

Woman who came with deep faith, finally received the favour. But she was frightened when Jesus began to search for the person 

But finally when Jesus said *Take courage your faith has made you well* filled the woman with new life 

Words of encouragement are very important in our life 

*8) Credit and Appreciation in life*

Jesus also appreciates the woman for her deep faith 

Appreciating one for the good things  always good 

Jesus never forgot to acknowledge the good that was found in the woman 

What about my life?

Do I appreciate others goodness? 

Do I find difficult to appreciate others goodness? 

How about encouraging others? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

How do I see Jesus in my life?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Fourteenth Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Mk 6:1-6*

*First Reading : Ez 2:2-5*

*SECOND READING - 2 Cor 12:7-10*

*How do I see Jesus in my life?*

*1) The perception about Jesus by His native people*

The Gospel of the day clearly tells us what the native people of Jesus saw in him

*A) A carpenters Son*

First of all they saw a ordinary namesless carpenters son

The name of the carpenter is also not given, which shows the mean mentality of the native people of Jesus 

*B) Mary's Son*

Instead of Joseph's name they highlighted Mary's name,  to insult His birth 

Once again the hypocrisy of the native people is seen here. They saw in Jesus a ordinary woman's Son

*C) Brother of Ordinary People*

The native people also gave the list of Jesus' brothers and sisters

They judged the personality of Jesus based on the personality of his so called siblings

*D) Person from ordinary working Class*

Carpentry was one of the ordinary works of that time. There isn't anything extraordinary things about carpentery 

They couldn't think of a persons great reputation from the working class that too from the carpentery. 

So they so only a carpenters son and not God's son in Jesus 

*E) His Sisters are with us*

This reference once again to undermine the importance of Jesus. Women had no role during the time of Jesus 

Identifying someone with women means, one has no significance or one is not at important. Such a message is conveyed in this statement

*2) Extraordinary Things they saw in Jesus*

At the same time they also saw some extraordinary things in Jesus 

*A) Extraordinary Wisdom*

They saw extraordinary wisdom in the words of Jesus. Such a wisdom they had never seen before in anyone's life 

*B) Person who does mighty deeds*

They also saw the special power, especially to work miracles, to heal the sick, the raise the dead 

That's why they exclaimed saying what mighty works are done by this person 

*C) Exceptional personality*

They saw a exceptional personality in Jesus 

The way he proclaimed Gospel, they way he approached, his power over nature and other mighty things made them to see a exceptional personality in Jesus

*3) The Final outcome*

All the great things are recorded in the first part of the Gospel. 

The first few things which the native people saw in Jesus really makes him a great person 

But unfortunately, the native people failed to accept Jesus as a great person 

What they saw in Jesus and what they behaved was totally different 

Finally they concluded he is only a carpenters son. They forgot all the great things which they saw in Jesus 

That was the great tragedy of the native people of Jesus 

*4) Jesus in diffent images by other people*

At the same time there were many others who saw great things in Jesus 

*A) Miracle Worker*

Many those who followed Jesus saw in Him a great miracle worker. Jesus had special power to work miracles

*B) Power to forgive sins*

Many others saw in Jesus the great power to forgive sins. Many experienced the power of forgiveness from Jesus 

*C) Divine Healer*

Indeed Jesus was a great divine healer. Many people were healed by Jesus. That is why many saw great divine healer in Jesus 

*D) One who has the authority over natural powes*

Many saw divine power in Jesus. Other than God no one can control the powers of the nature. 

The very fact Jesus calmed the sea and wind, it shows the divinity of Jesus. Many saw divine nature of Jesus and accepted him as the Saviour of the world  

*E) As a Revolutionist*

The revolutionist Jesus was seen in two levels 

The Pharisees, scribes, and religious  leaders saw the revolutionist Jesus as the one who is involved in blasphemy. For them Jesus was a great challenge for their selfish interests 

Others saw in Jesus a revolutionist person, one who works for the betterment of the society and liberates people from bandage 

*5) Reasons for Rejection*

Hypocrisy

Selfish interests

Arrogance 

Vested interests

Fear of losing authority and power 

Rebellious nature 

Hardness of heart 

Lack of humility

Laxity to change  

*4) What do I see in Jesus?*

The main theme of today's liturgy consists in this question

Answering this question will help us to see our relationship Jesus 

Do I see Jesus as business person, in the sense that when I ask something he must give me? 

Is it Jesus like TV for me, one whom I want to control with remote control? 

Do I see a police person in Jesus? 

Do I see a rich merchant in Jesus? 

Or do I see in Jesus 

A compassionate person

A divine healer 

A good shepherd

One who forgives sins

One who loves sinners 

One who is involved very much in our struggles 

What else do I see in Jesus?

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

The Taste of the New Wine

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Thirteenth Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:14-17*

*First Reading : Am 9:11-15*

*The Taste of the New Wine*

*1) Old and New Wine*

In the Gospel of the day Jesus speaks about two types of wine 

New wine and the Old wine 

He also tells us that New wine needs new wineskins, to store it. 

So what is the significance of this New Wine? 

*2) The Meaning of New Wine*

New wine means, the new way of understanding the reality 

It is the new way of looking at the situations of Life 

It is a new way of adopting the daily affairs of our life 

It is correcting the old wrong ways and adopting the new correct ways 

*3) The samples of New Wine of Jesus*

Praying for the enemies

Doing good to those who do harm to us 

Walking two miles instead of one mile 

Showing the other cheek when one slaps to one cheek

Forgiving ones enemies 

Praying for the persecutors 

Searching for the one who is lost

Going in search of the lost one 

Sacrificing ones comforts for the betterment of others 

Doing good in spite of all challenges 

These are the some of the best examples of Jesus' New Wine 

*4) The Taste of the New Wine*

The new wine which Jesus offers definitely not very sweet 

Its like a medicine, which is not at all testy, but its effects are wonderful 

The New Wine is at time bitter, but one who is able to drink it, it works in a positive way

The sweetness of the wine is not felt at the beginning, but towards the end 

All that is sweet ultimately, creates problems. Its easy to take sweet things. But life becomes bitter in the later stage 

*5) New Wine Needs New Wine Skins*

Jesus very well knows that the new wine which Jesus offers to us, can't be filled in the our old wine skins 

All of us are like old wineskins which needs to be made new to fill the new wine 

*6) Repair of the old wineskins into New*

All those who follow Jesus and His teaching need to have new wine skins 

So the repair of the old wineskins are very much necessary 

We need to repair our old wine skins urgently in order to fill the new wine into renovated new wineskins

*7) What type of wineskin I have?*

The new wine is readily available 

But the question is, do I have the new wineskin to fill it? 

Is my wineskin, eligible to fill the new wine? 

Have I repaired my old wine skin? 

Have I given up the work of renovating the old wine skin? 

How is the condition of the wineskin of 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 attitude of Jesus towards sinners and the Tax Collectors

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Thirteenth Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:9-13*

*First Reading : Am 8:4-6, 9-12*

*The attitude of Jesus towards sinners and the Tax Collectors*

*1) The situation of the Tax Collectors and Sinners*

In Jesus' time, there was nobody more hated than tax collectors 

They were also known as publicans

Jews considered them as  traitors. Because they cheated, stole, and extorted people while collecting the taxes for Romams

So in this context it is easy to see why they didn't get many dinner invites.

They were considered great  sinners and Jews believed that they are not eligible for salvation

*2) Jesus' attitude towards them*

Jesus' attitude was one of welcoming and being with them 

Jews could never think of such a thing from Jesus, since Jesus was a Jew 

Jesus not only went to their place but also to their houses and participated with the meal 

This shows that Jesus loved the sinners in order to show them the right way 

*3) Dinner at Matthew's House*

After Jesus called Matthew, He invited Jesus to his house for a dinner 

Jesus along with his disciples went to the house of Matthew

Along with them there were many tax collectors and sinners came to participate in the meal 

So the meal at Matthew's house united the tax collectors and the sinners to Jesus 

It became a great opportunity for all of them to come together

*4) Speciality of the meals*

It brought  eveyone together

It bring God and sinners together

It brought a great change in the sinners and tax collectors

It brought a new insight into the narrow hearts and minds of the Jews 

It gave opportunity to experience the love of Jesus towards them 

It gave opportunity for Jesus to communicate the good news of the Kingdom of God 

*5) Eucharist a Great meal*

The dinner at Matthew's place could be seen a the first Eucharist celebrated by Jesus 

All the things which happen during the Eucharistic celebration, happened at the house of Matthew when Jesus participated in the dinner organised by Matthew

The breaking of the Word of God and meal aspect, both were present in Matthews house

As sinners we have a great opportunity to dine with Jesus during every Eucharistic celebration

*6) Jesus Invites us*

As a merciful saviour Jesus always welcomes us to dine with him in a joyful way 

Jesus said *No* to no one. All those who came to him, he accommodated them and allowed them to experience his mercy 

No one is denied the sacrament of reconciliation

No  one is denied from experiencing the mercy of Jesus 

*7) Our Response*

Like those sinners and tax collectors we need to go to Jesus

Jesus is ever ready to welcome us, provided we go to him 

Unless we go, nothing will change 

All who go and participate in the meal, which is nothing but the Eucharist, will have great joy and eligible for great rewards in heaven

So what is my attitude? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*

Why do you harbor evil thoughts? Does it apply to me?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Thirteenth Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 9:1-8*

*First Reading : Am 7:10-17*

*“Why do you harbor evil thoughts? Does it apply to me?*

*1) Jesus asking this question*

In today's Gospel we have this question, which was asked by Jesus to the Scribes

Jesus went on doing Good. In today's Gospel Jesus heals a paralytic and then he forgives his sin. 

This good gesture of Jesus was seen by the Scribes as blasphemy. 

That's why Jesus asks this question *“Why do you harbor evil thoughts?*

*2) Bible on Evil Thoughts*

The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord Proverbs 15:26

Evil thoughts are the natural condition of sinful humanity (Genesis 6:5)

Sinful human beings become futile in their thinking (Romans 1:21-23)

God hates the thoughts of the wicked (Proverbs 15:26)

God hates evil plans against neighbors (Zechariah 8:17)

For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. Matthew 15:19

*3) Various types of Evil things in Life*

Spreading Gossip

Speaking ill about others 

Spreading false information about others 

Spoiling the name of others with the selfish interest

Revengeful feelings which give rise to evil things 

Jealousy which spoils the good reputation of others 

*4) Evil things destroy everyones life*

St James tells us the evil desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. James 1:15

It not only destroys the person who has the evil thoughts but also the other person who becomes the victim of it 

In no way the evil thoughts help us in any way 

*5) Evil Things starts from the Evil thoughts*

Evil things do not happen all of a sudden 

It takes sufficient time to actualise in reality 

First of all the evil thoughts begin in our mind. If it is not controlled then it takes birth in our heart and finally it comes out in our actions 

Unless one has control over heart and mind, evil thoughts can't be controlled

*6) Reasons for Evil thoughts*

Jealousy

Greed for money and wealth 

Selfish interests 

Desire for power, authority, position, and for bodily pleasure

These are the main causes of evil thoughts

*7) Am I a victim of Evil thoughts?*

What are my thoughts? 

What type of  thoughts go in my mind? 

Does my thoughts help others or ruin their good name and reputation? 

What do others say about my thoughts? Do they say good or wicked? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*