The Aspect of Washing

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Twenty Eighth Week : Tuesday*

*Gospel : Lk 11:37-41*

*First Reading : Gal 5:1-6*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 119:41, 43, 44, 45, 47, 48*

*The Aspect of Washing*

*1) The Gospel on Washing*

The Gospel of the day speaks about washing before the meals 

In fact the Scribes and Pharisees, find fault with Jesus saying that he didn't follow the procedure of washing before the meals 

This particular aspect also gives us a opportunity to think about the aspect of  Washing in our life 

*2) Life Starts with Washing*

When we are born in to this world, the first thing, which is done to us was washing 

We were washed and cleaned as soon as we came into this world 

*3) Life ends with Washing*

After our death, one of the things which is done to the dead body is washing 

After washing the body, it is kept in the coffin for further rites and for burial 

In a way Washing becomes one of the last things which is done to the person 

*4) From Body wash to the higher Level*

The Gospel speaks about the washing of hands and other bodily parts before one takes the food

Jesus is not against such hygienic practices, which are absolutely necessary

Jesus from this ordinary experience, draws a profound lesson with regard to the washing, by emphasizing the importance of Washing 

There is a deeper meaning for washing

*5) Deeper meaning of Washing*

Apart from washing of the feet and hands, Jesus highlights the washing of following things 

Washing of ones mind to clean our thoughts 

Washing of ones mouth, to speak like a prophet 

Washing of ones heart, to come out of the all evil emotions 

Washing of ones eyes to see the good things and to sufferings of others 

Washing of the ones ears, to listen to good words 

To wash ones soul to experience God, through the sacrament of reconciliation

To wash ones hands to clean ourselves from all evil things and to offer our service to the needy 

Washing is a continuous process which can't be avoided

*6) Washing in my Life*

How do I understand the importance of washing in my life? 

Am I ready to wash my heart, mind, soul, eyes, ears,  and my entire being 

How challenging it is to washing our thoughts, words and deeds 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*