God’s Original Plan for Marriage
Genesis 2:18-24; Psalm 128; Hebrews 2:9-11; Mark 10:2-16
Today’s readings present God’s original plan for marriage, emphasizing its sacredness and indissolubility. The first reading (Genesis 2:18-24) highlights the union between a man and a woman, while the Gospel (Mark 10:2-16) addresses divorce.
Marriage, as instituted by God, is a holy union between one man and one woman (Genesis 1:27, Mark 10:6). It is a divine institution, not a human invention, and was established without divorce. Moses permitted divorce due to human stubbornness, but Jesus teaches that this was not God’s original intention.
The Catholic Church upholds this teaching, and thus does not allow divorce. Divorce contradicts the marital vows, where couples promise to be together for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do them part.
Divorce also has devastating consequences for children, depriving them of parental love, care, and trust. Children from divorced homes often struggle with morality, marriage, love, fidelity, and life in general because of the traumatic effects. Divorce can deeply impact individuals, families, and society, extending beyond the immediate breakup to affect finances, mental health, and family relationships.
Instead of divorce, we must learn to persevere and care for one another, especially children. In cases of danger, violence, or insecurity, the Church permits temporary separation, not divorce. Upholding the sanctity of marriage involves a dedication to love, mutual respect, and growth. By committing to intentional communication, building emotional and spiritual bonds, seeking support, practicing forgiveness, reaffirming commitments, and showing gratitude, couples can create a resilient and fulfilling marriage that honors their shared journey and deepens their connection over time. Again, marriages entered into through force, fear, or deceit are considered invalid. Hence never marriage was never contracted.
Let us uphold God’s original plan for marriage and family, teaching what is right and showing compassion for couples in difficulty. Psalm 128 reminds us to fear the Lord, and in doing so, our families will flourish.
Prayer
Almighty ever-living God, pour out your mercy upon us, pardoning our sins and granting us what we dare not ask. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen.
Rev. Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
