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*