As I see so many marriages struggle, I often wonder why it isn’t easier. The answer goes back to Adam and Eve.
According to faith the disorder we notice so painfully does not stem from the nature of man and woman, nor from the nature of their relations, but from sin. As a break with God, the first sin had for its first consequence the rupture of the original communion between man and woman. Their relations were distorted by mutual recriminations; their mutual attraction, the Creator's own gift, changed into a relationship of domination and lust; and the beautiful vocation of man and woman to be fruitful, multiply, and subdue the earth was burdened by the pain of childbirth and the toil of work. CCC 1607
But here’s the good news!
To heal the wounds of sin, man and woman need the help of the grace that God in his infinite mercy never refuses them. Without his help man and woman cannot achieve the union of their lives for which God created them "in the beginning." CCC 1608
For the grace of God has appeared, saving all and training us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age, as we await the blessed hope, the appearance of the glory of the great God and of our savior Jesus Christ Titus 11-13
By coming to restore the original order of creation disturbed by sin, he himself gives the strength and grace to live marriage in the new dimension of the Reign of God. It is by following Christ, renouncing themselves, and taking up their crosses that spouses will be able to "receive" the original meaning of marriage and live it with the help of Christ. This grace of Christian marriage is a fruit of Christ's cross, the source of all Christian life. CCC 1615
For you had gone astray like sheep, but you have now returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls. 1 Peter 2:25
Lord, it is so clear that you are the answer to all our needs. Give each of us the eyes to see how much we need you. Give us the humility to see we can’t achieve anything without you. Give us the courage to fall to our knees and ask for your help, your healing, your comfort, and your steadfastness. Help us turn away from sin so that we may be open to your grace. Pour your grace abundantly upon each married couple, especially upon those resisting you the most. Jesus we trust in You. Amen.
Peace, Joy, and Love,
Janet
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