Daily Reflections - October 7,2012

UNTIL DEATH DO US PART

 

Jesus was constantly observed by the ruling parties of the day, namely, the Pharisees and Sadducees. These religious people were always on the lookout for a way to destroy His reputation among the people and kill Him. They were well versed in Law and Scripture. However, their interpretations became rigid and literal. The Gospel today is one incident. Marriage was arranged between the groom and the bride’s father and a marriage contract would be executed. After a year, they were to live in the groom’s house. If the man found any unacceptable or objectionable behavior on the part of the woman, a writ of divorce was written.

In order to understand the context of the question, “Is it permissible for a husband to divorce his wife?” we need to understand certain rabbinic schools of thought. In particular there were two, Shammai and Hillel. The Shammai School was stricter in its interpretation. A sexual misconduct on the part of the woman allowed the man to write a bill of divorce. On the other hand, the Hillel mentioned “anything” objectionable on the part of the woman. She could even serve a dish not pleasing to her husband and that would qualify for divorce. The man’s word was final; women were simply required to leave, no questions asked. The Pharisees claimed that Moses permitted it (which is itself a false claim) by their own interpretation of Deuteronomy writings attributed to Moses. Jesus recalls the beginning that God made them male and female, one flesh united in marriage covenant. For a culture that saw divorce as normal, Jesus goes against the current trend.

In modern society, we sadly observe the erosion of the wonderful gift of marriage through divorce. This grieves the heart of God. Of course there are grounds for divorce, but we must adhere to the words of Jesus: one flesh plus one body equals no divorce. It’s a wonderful sight to witness aged couples still in love, even though the battle may have been tough and trying in times gone by. We need to pray for married couples to remain strong until death they do part. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: Do you believe in the grace of marriage? Pray for those discerning a call to married life and for couples who are experiencing the pain of separation.

 

Lord, I pray for all married couples. May they continue in the journey of faithfulness. Comfort those who are undergoing strain in their marriages. May they stay strong together. Amen.