Christian Marriage Is a Union That Is Permanent and Faithful
Dear Parishioners,
Scared Scripture begins with the creation of man and woman in the image and likeness of God. Today’s readings recall this beautiful action of God and his desire to make us happy. “It is not good for the man to be alone.” God saw how unhappy man was and how he was dying of loneliness, so He offered to complete his creation. God gave him something beyond his imagination. When the Man was asleep, God fashioned a woman who completed the beautiful work of God.
In his love God made them male and female, with power and blessing to love and procreate. This is how God established this sacred union of marriage between one man and one woman: forming a covenant by which a man and woman establishes between themselves as partners for life, for the good of each other and for procreation. The creation of woman, man’s partner and mate, brought joy and fulfilment to the man. They were created for each other. “The woman “the flesh of his flesh”, his counterpart, his equal, his nearest in all things, is given to him by God as a helpmate: she therefore represents God from whom comes our help”.
Jesus upholds the original divine plan for an indissoluble union of marriage. He acknowledged that Moses’ exception was because of human weakness but not part of God’s plan. Jesus affirms the permanence of married state. In recent times, our society has badly misunderstood the institution of marriage, and often takes it for granted. Sadly, this beautiful gift has not always been appreciated by all. There are concerted efforts to destroy and change the fundamental meaning of marriage. It has been neglected, abused and redefined especially through legislative and judiciary systems in some countries. What was designed to give joy has, in some cases, led to sorrow, pain, regrets, abuse and divorce. These difficulties arise from sin.
Nevertheless, it does not change or tarnish this institution, and the meaning God has given it, its origin and its ends. Yes, we are surrounded by evil, and the union is constantly threatened. Jesus tells us to guard against these threats. Christian marriage is not a mere contract or association. It should not be reduced to commerce or financial interest where, if profitable, you keep: if not you dissolve.
Jesus teaches something new about marriage. The people involved give up their previous status and enter a union; a union that is permanent and faithful. The marriage demands seemed overwhelming to the apostles, so they asked Jesus to explain further his new teaching on Christian marriage.
Jesus placed children before them and says: “whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” To resemble a child is to be willing to start the work of constructing something new. It does take time and may not to be easy. However, it is important that to be like a child is to live one’s marriage as God wishes it to be lived.
We see why the Church could not possibly allow divorce without rejecting the teaching of Jesus. And more so why we ought to pray always for all married couples and young people who are looking forward to entering into a marriage relationship. We cannot forget to pray for those who have experienced divorce or are going through it at this moment. There is room in the Church for all. In marriage God continues the miracle of love and procreation.
Blessings To You,
Fr. Vitalis Anyanike, Pastor
