Daily Gospel Reflection for June 14, 2024

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Mark 5:27-32

My husband and I recently celebrated our 30th anniversary. It’s a chance to consider the importance of a sacramental marriage and its indissolubility. Marriage is a commitment and a road of obedience to both the other and God.

Jesus has strong words on marriage in today’s Gospel, emphasizing that marriage is not to be taken lightly. This has been our experience as well - weathering the natural ebbs and flows of a lifelong relationship and commitment with another person. When I got engaged, my mother (who has been married to my father for fifty-eight years), told me there would be times when I could walk away and possibly feel no regrets, but that’s not what marriage is. In other words, it can be darn stinking hard sometimes, but marriage is pushing through and coming out on the other side stronger.

I believe Jesus underlined the importance of marriage because He also knew how critical it is for children to be in a family. I understand that sometimes really crummy things happen and that’s not possible. Thankfully, the Church has ways of assisting. But I also know that a healthy marriage helps build healthy children. A sacramental marriage with God at its center helps grow faithful children. I’ve met a decent number of young adults who didn’t have this model who have shared that they value seeing my husband and I be a married couple and appreciate that we share the good, the bad, and the goofy with them. It comforts them to know that a long-term, happy, healthy marriage is possible.

As always, Jesus sets the bar high but doesn’t abandon us. I know for a fact that we have only been able to keep this thing going for thirty years because of humility and God’s good grace.

Ponder:

What do Jesus’ words on marriage mean to you and your marriage?

Pray:

Jesus, help me keep You at the center of my marriage and give me the graces to be a good spouse.

Copyright 2024 Merridith Frediani