You become what you hear

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Third Week : Thursday*

*Gospel : Mk 4:21-25*

*First Reading : Heb 10:19-25*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 24:1-2, 3-4ab, 5-6*

*You become what you hear*

*1) The Gospel on hearing*

The Gospel of the day speaks about the importance of hearing 

The Gospel also warns us about what we hear and what we understand 

Our life is shaped by what we hear and what we desire to hear 

*2) The Influence of Words*

Faith comes by hearing: *Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.* (Romans 10:17) What we listen to can increase our faith or weaken it.

Corrupt words corrupt character: *Bad company corrupts good morals* (1 Corinthians 15:33). If we surround ourselves with negative, sinful, or deceptive influences, they shape our thinking and actions.

Words have tremendous influence on our life

*3) Hearing vs. Understanding*

Jesus often spoke in parables, which required spiritual discernment. 

Some people heard His words but did not truly grasp their meaning (Matthew 13:13-15).

Hearing alone is not enough. One must listen with a heart open to God’s truth.

Many heard Jesus physically, but only those with faith truly understood His message.

*4) The Battle for the Mind*

Paul urges believers to guard their thoughts and fill their minds with what is good

*Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.* (Philippians 4:8)

What we hear repeatedly becomes what we dwell on, and what we dwell on shapes our beliefs, decisions, and identity.

*5) How to "Take Care" in Hearing*

Seek God’s truth daily through Scripture and prayer.

Avoid passivity—be intentional in filtering what you hear.

Surround yourself with godly wisdom from faithful teachers and Christian community.

Act on what you hear—true hearing leads to obedience (James 1:22).

*6) “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”* Proverbs 23:7 

This verse reveals that our inner thoughts define who we become. 

If we think with faith and righteousness, our actions will reflect that.

Our transformation begins in the mind. When we align our thoughts with God’s truth, we experience a changed life. 

A mind focused on God results in peace and security. Trusting Him shapes a stable and blessed life.

Our thoughts determine our actions, attitudes, and ultimately our destiny. 

The Bible urges us to align our thinking with God’s truth so that our lives reflect His goodness and purpose.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*