https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081426.cfm
Man’s Intentions or God’s Intentions
Acts of heroism are ultimately acts of love that inspire hope. No matter how much we may lose, love endures sacrifice and suffering, encouraging resilience in others.
Jesus knew this love throughout His ministry and on His Cross. It’s the love He gives to man and wife in the Sacrament of Marriage, a love rooted in divine grace. It’s a love God also gives to celibates who live for Him alone, inspiring us to choose love over fear or sacrifice.
It is a risk and may involve tremendous sacrifice, but people are more important than stuff. Divorce in marriage and in any relationship becomes a reality when our stuff becomes more important than our commitments to people.
There is tremendous strength in the intentions we make to one another. Nevertheless, commitments, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, will all demand sacrifice at one point or another.
When challenged by his contemporaries, Jesus did not back down and accept divorce. He said humans have no authority to break the vow to love as He did on the cross. We find the strength to love our partners through difficulties because of our relationship with Jesus. We love them with His divine strength within us. When we can’t, He can!!!
When you face the trauma of divorce or struggles in marriage, go to Jesus in the Sacraments of the Church. Let His presence bring you comfort and reassurance in your pain.
Rekindle your love for Him through the Sacraments, making Jesus more important than anything. Your partner will then naturally become more important than anything else that could divide you. This reflects Jesus’ love for us, which We are called to express in our vows to each other.
Gospel Challenge:
Make commitments that last, and keep them with the Lord’s strength when you make them.
Peace everyone.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
