Therefore what God joined together, let no one separate.
Genesis 2:18-24; Psalm 128 (127)
Hebrews 2:9-11; Mark 10:2-16
Pointers for Prayer
Marriages do break down, but in this story Jesus appears as the wise person urging people to seek first the original harmony where possible, rather than seek escape routes when difficulties arise. When have you found that, in marriage or in other relationships, the bonds have been strengthened when you have been prepared to work through difficulties?
There are other things that we needlessly and wrongly put in opposition: young and old, male and female, people from different cultures, body and soul. Perhaps at times you have discovered the advantages of exploring the richness in combining such apparently exclusive opposites.
The children in the second story can be taken as representing any group of ‘little ones’ whose opinion we may be inclined to dismiss. When have you found that you have been taught an important lesson about life, about love, or about faith by people whose views you had been inclined to dismiss?
Thought for the day
At present, the culture hesitates before the long-term commitments such as life-long marriage. Perhaps wisely! And yet, there is freedom in commitment. It is possible to walk the quay sides looking are various options for the journey. At that time, you have freedom of choice. However, if you want to get anywhere, one vessel will have to be selected. That is the freedom of choosing, choosing not to remain in the paralysis of choice. Once made, commitment opens up to another level of living and loving and being loved in return.
Prayer
Creator God, you know our hearts and in your wisdom you have made us for each other, knowing that it is not good to be alone. In our committed relationships, help to find freedom and love, life and joy.
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