Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Marriage - Call and Commission
Mathew 19: 1 – 12
Theme verse:
“and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Verse 5 – 6
Devotion: Marriage embodies a divine union orchestrated by the Triune God. It signifies a profound unity where two individuals become one flesh. However, the challenges arise when this unity is not fully embraced by all, particularly by parents or relatives who struggle to accept this reality. This resistance oen leads to tragic situations that captivate society's attention.
In the teachings of Jesus, there's a poignant reminder that divorce should only be considered in cases of sexual immorality to avoid the grave sin of adultery. Yet, contemporary divorces often stem from issues such as domestic violence and toxicity within relationships, particularly exacerbated by dowry-related disputes in the Indian context.
The institution of marriage in many cultures, including the Indian system, has regrettably devolved into a transactional arrangement, where financial considerations overshadow the sacredness of the union. Instead of a divine joining, marriages become bartered exchanges.
Post-marriage, additional burdens and expectations are often imposed, creating strains within the relationship. Traditional norms dictate that husbands should limit interactions with their in-laws, and sons are deemed primarily responsible for parental care, complicating the dynamics of the marital bond. Additionally, parental intervention, though well-intentioned, can sometimes suffocate the autonomy of the married couple, blurring the boundaries between support and control.
Hence, it's crucial to recognize that the call and commission of marriage extend beyond the couple themselves. Those involved in facilitating marriages should remember the divine providence inherent in the union: "When God joins, God provides." This serves as a solemn reminder to all stakeholders, urging them to uphold the sanctity of marriage and nurture relationships based on love, respect, and mutual support, rather than worldly transactions and burdensome expectations.
Theme verse:
“and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Verse 5 – 6
Devotion: Marriage embodies a divine union orchestrated by the Triune God. It signifies a profound unity where two individuals become one flesh. However, the challenges arise when this unity is not fully embraced by all, particularly by parents or relatives who struggle to accept this reality. This resistance oen leads to tragic situations that captivate society's attention.
In the teachings of Jesus, there's a poignant reminder that divorce should only be considered in cases of sexual immorality to avoid the grave sin of adultery. Yet, contemporary divorces often stem from issues such as domestic violence and toxicity within relationships, particularly exacerbated by dowry-related disputes in the Indian context.
The institution of marriage in many cultures, including the Indian system, has regrettably devolved into a transactional arrangement, where financial considerations overshadow the sacredness of the union. Instead of a divine joining, marriages become bartered exchanges.
Post-marriage, additional burdens and expectations are often imposed, creating strains within the relationship. Traditional norms dictate that husbands should limit interactions with their in-laws, and sons are deemed primarily responsible for parental care, complicating the dynamics of the marital bond. Additionally, parental intervention, though well-intentioned, can sometimes suffocate the autonomy of the married couple, blurring the boundaries between support and control.
Hence, it's crucial to recognize that the call and commission of marriage extend beyond the couple themselves. Those involved in facilitating marriages should remember the divine providence inherent in the union: "When God joins, God provides." This serves as a solemn reminder to all stakeholders, urging them to uphold the sanctity of marriage and nurture relationships based on love, respect, and mutual support, rather than worldly transactions and burdensome expectations.
Prayer
Triune God, We pray for those facing difficulties in their marriages, especially those affected by domestic violence, toxic relationships, and societal injustices such as dowry-related disputes. Bring healing and restoration, Lord, and help us to be agents of Your peace and reconciliation in these situations. May our marriages be a testament to Your grace and Your glory, reflecting Your love to the world around us. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray.
Thought for the Day
“Any young man, who makes dowry a condition to marriage, discredits his education and his country and dishonors womanhood”— Mahatma Gandhi
Rev. Sobin Abraham Jose
Mukathala MTC ,Kureepally,Kollam,India
Triune God, We pray for those facing difficulties in their marriages, especially those affected by domestic violence, toxic relationships, and societal injustices such as dowry-related disputes. Bring healing and restoration, Lord, and help us to be agents of Your peace and reconciliation in these situations. May our marriages be a testament to Your grace and Your glory, reflecting Your love to the world around us. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray.
Thought for the Day
“Any young man, who makes dowry a condition to marriage, discredits his education and his country and dishonors womanhood”— Mahatma Gandhi
Rev. Sobin Abraham Jose
Mukathala MTC ,Kureepally,Kollam,India