FREEDOM AND EQUALITY
Friday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
My dear encountered couples:
Marriage is to be a symbol of mankind’s union with God. God’s love for us and our love for him draws us together and joins our spirits to him. We become one. We become one not in the sense that we lose our individuality and identity. It is this union of true love that encourages individuality and gives identity.
Remember that God is One. But there are three Persons in God. Each has an individuality and identity - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We have it explained to us that though they are One, they are distinct. They are not separate, they are united. This is a mystery to us. But then isn’t marriage also a mystery?
I am afraid that what often is the enemy to a solid and lasting marriage union is the tendency to dominate, to control. There is often found a competition for first place among the two. This is not a true union accomplished through a joining by God.
In marriage individuality is to be respected. Freedom and space to become what God intends for each spouse is essential. Equality, not sameness, is necessary. The two are to help each other, not compete. It is a partnership of cooperation and assistance. All this is asking a lot. God knows this. That is why he first wants us to be united to him - then - to each other. Only in that way will what seems impossible become actual.
May we never enter unions resulting from emotions, selfish goals, or force. Let us be joined by God alone.
