Various Ways through which we become the Loving Children of the Heavenly Father

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: First Week : Saturday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:43-48*

*First Reading : Ps 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8*

*Responsorial Psalm : Dt 26:16-19*

*Various Ways through which we become the Loving Children of the Heavenly Father*

*1) The Sacrament of Baptism*

Officially we become the children of the Heavenly Father through the Sacrament of Baptism 

Baptism is the Gate way to all other sacraments 

Yet mere receiving of the sacrament of Baptism does not make us the Genuine children of the Heavenly Father 

There are other most important things which we are supposed to do in our life in order to become the Genuine children of the Heavenly Father

*2) Love Your Enemies*

Jesus calls us to go beyond natural love and to love even those who oppose us.

This unconditional love mirrors the love of God, who blesses both the good and the wicked.

By choosing love over hatred, we reflect God's nature and align ourselves with Him as His true children

*3) Pray for Those Who Persecute You*

Prayer is a powerful act of transformation, both for ourselves and for those who wrong us.

When we pray for our enemies, we adopt the heart of the Father, who desires that all be saved.

This is another way to become the genuine children of the Heavenly Father

*4) Exhibit God’s Mercy and Generosity*

God causes the sun to rise and the rain to fall on both the righteous and the wicked.

Likewise, we are called to extend kindness and generosity even to those who do not deserve it.

*5) Go Beyond the Worldly Standard of Love*

Loving only those who love us is easy; even sinners do that.

True children of God must go beyond this limited love and extend grace to all, just as Jesus did.

*6) Strive for Perfection in Holiness*

Jesus ends with the call: *Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.*

This perfection is not about flawlessness but about maturity in love, mercy, and righteousness.

All those who are able to do these things will become the genuine children of the Heavenly Father

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*