In our Gospel today from Mark 10: 1-12, Jesus says “whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her”, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery against him”.
Jesus’ teachings about marriage ran counter to the culture back then, and it sure runs counter to the culture today. Too many marriages are conditional these days – “I’ll give if my spouse gives” seems to be the common theme today. Marriage is much more like a contract – I’ll love you only if you love me
back. Jesus teaches of a love that is unconditional – I’ll love you even if when because of what you are going through you can’t love me back”. When I see successful marriages that have lasted the test of time, this unconditional love is the key.
So for those of us that are married, let us take this Gospel to heart. Living up to Jesus’ teachings about marriage is a challenge for individuals today and for the Church. Jesus’ words call husband and wife to cultivate a selfless love that is essential for them to be one, and to maintain their unconditional commitment to each other that is necessary for their marriage to endure. How are we responding to this challenge? For those who are not married and want to be in accordance with God’s will, the only way you will be truly happy is if you find this unconditional love.
De Colores, Deacon Kevin
