By Stephen Langsianmunga csc –
Readings: Jos 24:1-13; Mt 19:3-12
In the first reading, the Israelites were summoned at Shechem by Joshua to renew their commitment to the covenant with God which had been inaugurated under Moses at Sinai.
This renewal of the covenant would help them remember and keep the flame of unity and fidelity to Yahweh alive, which they had promised even at the most difficult times. Similarly, the gospel speaks about the undivided love and the divine union.
Marriage is one such union, which is not only between two persons, but between man, woman, and God at the center. It is a relationship, and a covenant is being established in the form of a Sacrament. It is God who brings man and woman in union and binds them together with his unfailing love. Marriage is not a secular activity but a spiritual one. It is God who unites and blesses the couple. No one can separate what God unites.
Therefore, as long as God is placed at the center of the marriage covenant, there is meaning in marriage. This would also help the couple to know the purpose and become holy before God and others. In this contemporary world, it is challenging to be married in terms of staying and living together faithfully. Not only in married life, but also in our human relationships with one another and with God, we may break our union.
Hence, the readings of today are inviting us to accept others willingly with love without any hesitation. Also, the reading invites us to begin our journey with gratitude, to cherish and nourish the love we receive from God and share that love meaningfully with one another.