The Importance of Marriage and Family

10-03-2021Weekly ReflectionFr. Arul Doss

Dear people of God,

Good morning to you all. On this 27th Sunday, we are invited to reflect on the significance and importance of the institutions of marriage and family through reading of today. Both are essential institutions founded on genuine love for the sustenance of humanity. Marriage plays the dual role. First, it serves the of affection between couples and, the sustenance of humanity through procreation.

Today's first Reading speaks about the beginning of creation when God made man and woman. God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a suitable partner for him.” And out of man, woman was created. When Adam sees the woman he says, “This one, at last, is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called ‘woman.’” We can almost hear the longing, gratitude, and appreciation in Adam’s voice when he meets Eve as he says, “at last.” She was a gift because she was an equal partner to him. The gospel of today strongly calls us to uphold the sanctity of marriage and family life.

Thus, these readings remind us that marriage is instituted by God. It is will of God and also plan of God that a particular man and women should be united with mutual love in heart and body for the continuation of human beings on this earth. It is one of the greatest sacraments. So, the Marriage or the family life must be cherished, safeguarded and protected. However, it is important to note that it has its challenges.

These can be overcome through the grace of God, good Christian virtues and mutual dialogue. Marital problems should be resolved mutually, and with godly intent to make amends.

Today’s readings also remind us that that it is not the will of God for any sacramental marriage to be broken: “This is why a man must leave his father and mother, and join himself to his wife, and they become one body…So what God had united, man must not divide.” Sometimes, there is selfishness and greed which often comes with the sole intent to exploit the other. The foundation of marriage should be built on honesty, truthfulness, mutual love and prayer. There is also, lack of maturity on the part of the intending couples. By maturity, one means spiritual, physical, social and psychological maturity that is required to enter into this sacred union.

Finally, let us sincerely pray today for those couples who going through difficult times in their marriages, that our dear God will give them the grace, strength and wisdom to move forward and find peace in their homes. For those intending to be united in this holy sacrament, through the grace of God, may they find fulfillment in the love they profess.

Have a great and Joyful Sunday!

Yours in Jesus,
Fr. Doss

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