Marriage is for Forever

    

Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

06 October 2024

 

First Reading: Gn 2:18-24

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6

Second Reading: Heb 2:9-11

Gospel: Mk 10:2-16 or 10:2-12

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

 

"What God has joined together, no human being must separate."

My husband and I will be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary this year! Praise God! I must say that if we did not have God in the center of our marriage, we have long been separated! There is no perfect marriage. Every marriage goes through different stages. How the couple handle it will determine if they will come out bitter or better. Do not be disappointed if you go through the unpleasant stages in marriage. It is just a phase and will surely end.

My husband and I are also blessed that we attended a Marriage Encounter Weekend early on in our marriage. It really improved our communication, our relationship and even raising our children in a Christian way. I truly believe that marriage is from the Lord and meant to be forever. It is not without many challenges and trials but it offers a unique opportunity to grow and learn together. Isn't it that if we want to follow Christ we have to take up our cross and follow Him. And in our marriage we must have the courage and strength to carry our daily crosses. Yes, our spouse can be our cross. We have a lot of differences. We have our flaws. We are not really perfect. We have our moods especially now that we are seniors. But we have resolved that no matter what, we just enjoy life and not anymore sweat on the small stuff. We have increased our patience, compassion, and kindness to each other. A good marriage is the foundation of a happy family where children can grow in a nurturing and loving relationships. Regardless of external circumstances, the commitment to love each unconditionally can create a powerful, enduring bond.

Prayer

Lord, I pray for all the couples out there, especially those facing many challenges in their marriage. Give them the strength and the courage to keep the love for each other burning. I also pray that You give them a forgiving and humble heart to accept each other's weaknesses. May all couples be a living witness of Your compassion, love, and mercy. All this I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen.