Is Your Family Life Centred On God?

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Genesis 2:18-24
Psalm 127(128)
Hebrews 2:9-11
Mark 10:2-16

I believe that one of the most significant challenges facing our world today is the breakdown of family life. Many argue that this issue is the root of many other problems in society.

The widespread use of artificial contraception and the prevalence of abortions only make this issue worse. When the Catholic Church addresses these concerns, it is often criticized for being inflexible and out of touch with reality.

The topic of families and children evokes strong emotions as it is central to our lives, regardless of marital or parental status. The well-being and safety of children are of deep concern to anyone with a sense of decency.

These matters are close to our hearts, and many individuals feel entitled to their own opinions and the right to determine their course of action. While the latter conviction is certainly valid, free will is a precious gift that allows us to make moral decisions guided by our conscience. Therefore, it is crucial to consider what informs our conscience.

Some may find the question of what guides our conscience perplexing as conscience is often perceived as an innate voice within us. However, conscience is the application of our intellect and understanding to specific moral situations. It is not merely a feeling or instinct, but a faculty of judgment that requires nurturing. Our consciences must be informed, and it is all too easy to be uncertain about matters of duty and responsibility in today’s world.

The word “conscience” itself originates from Latin, where “con” means “with” and “science” means “knowledge.” Therefore, conscience implies acting with correct knowledge and judgment. It is only a reliable guide and judge when properly formed and nourished with truth.

For Catholics, the teachings of Our Lord serve as the ultimate guide to truth. By studying His teachings, we fulfill our obligation to inform our consciences. In today’s gospel, His teaching on marriage is explicit: marriage is exclusive to one partner and is intended to be lifelong. Christ’s revelation clarifies and perfects the divine law, emphasizing the unchanging nature of God’s will regarding marriage.

This lifelong union is based on the mutual self-giving of the spouses, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. Additionally, the indissoluble nature of this Union is essential for the well-being of children.

The connection between the unity of marriage and its fruitfulness, represented by children, was likely on the mind of Saint Mark when recording the gospel passage. This is evident in the account of Jesus’ displeasure when His disciples attempted to turn away those bringing children to Him. This incident underscores the significance of children as a sign of the kingdom of God and the importance of nurturing their presence within the community.

Graciously fortify every family of your redeemed children as we prayerfully begin another mercy filled week with Joshua’s decisive serving spirit for you and you alone oh Lord through the same Christ our Lord.Amen.

PRAY FOR YOUR FAMILY AND RELATIVES TODAY AND REFLECT ON HOW YOU CAN POSSIBLY
FAN UP THE FLAMES OF LOVE IN YOUR FAMILY AND YOU WILL SEE THE RADIANCE OF GOD’S BLESSINGS.

Fr Joseph Osho