Today’s reading may be viewed as controversial by some. The first question that comes to mind is ‘What about the person who is in an abusive marriage?’ As a long time married person who has the privilege of watching close family and friends live their marriage vows—even the for better or worse, and in sickness or health parts I can attest that marriage can be very hard. But this can be said about any valued relationship.
Society has glamourized marriage—at least the wedding part. Too often people fail to see beyond the ceremony. They forget to consider what it means to live out the promise to love one another until death do us part.
As I reflect on today’s gospel, I find myself remembering the great celebrations my spouse and I have shared—celebrating the profession of love for each other accompanied by family and dear friends. I remember the birth of each of our children. I am grateful for the care my spouse and I have provided to each other during some dark times—such as the illness and death of our parents. I also think of some of the really petty things that can make me crazy—the shoes left all over the house, the coat that is never hung in the closet and I swear he thinks the pans we use are self-cleaning. I’m confident I may have a flaw or two that bug my spouse as well. I’m thankful for the great examples we have been surrounded by as we navigate choppy waters on occasion.
Nevertheless, I think we are called today to consider not only marriage, but commitments overall. It’s important to keep our promises, care for each other and use all available resources to support us in carrying out our commitments before deciding that ‘it’s just too much, or ‘not fun anymore’.
Take some time to remember commitments you’ve made, particularly to another human—relationships. Do I offer grace to the other? Am I reasonable in my expectations of the other? What am I doing to maintain the health of the relationship? Rely on those who are trying to keep similar commitments for guidance and support. Above all, keep Jesus as the center of the relationship and ask him to provide guidance and protection in the good bad times and the rough times.
Angela Maynard
I worked at Creighton from 2008-2022. I had a wonderful time managing the student health center until it was outsourced to CHI in 2019. After that I played a key role in the university’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The best part of my work was that I had the privilege to walk with students as they managed health issues during their time as a Creighton student. I cannot articulate the joy these relationships brought.
I know God is always with me and I’m always on the lookout for the signs he sends my way to reassure me of His love and presence. I look forward to the opportunity to participate in the ministry of Daily Reflections. Intentional reflection time has helped me keep God as my center as I really try to live the Gospel. This is a wonderful opportunity for me. I pray the Holy Spirit guides me in my reflecting.
