THE FAMILY OF GOD
Our readings today lead us to consider the importance of several elements in Jesus’s teaching: marriage and commitment, families and children, struggle and compassion. In the First Reading we hear the story in Genesis of the beginning of humanity: how God made man and woman to find completion in each other, so that they become one body. The Psalm is a song of praise for the gift of marriage and a happy family life.
The Second Reading, from the letter to the Hebrews, speaks of how completely Jesus took on the human condition, even to the point of enduring a shameful death.
In the Gospel Jesus is being challenged by the Pharisees, who are trying to trap him. While accepting that our frailty can lead to divorce, Jesus insists on the sacred unity of marriage. He then blesses little children, encouraging us to welcome them and to be more childlike in our faith.
Source: Excerpted from the Scripture reflection courtesy of St Beuno’s Outreach in the Diocese of Wrexham, available at www.australiancatholics.com.au. Image from Liturgy Help.