Sunday Reflections: Marriage is Both Natural and Supernatural
"What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder" (Mark 2:9)
Sunday Reflections: Marriage is Both Natural and Supernatural
The sanctity of marriage is a cornerstone of Christian faith, celebrated in the Bible and upheld by the teachings of saints throughout history. Today, we gather to reflect on the divine institution of marriage, drawing inspiration from the sacred scriptures and the wisdom of saints.
Genesis 2.7ab,15,18-24
The creation of Adam and Eve in Genesis provides the foundation for understanding the sanctity of marriage. God created man and woman as complementary beings, intended to live in unity and companionship. This divine union is the first example of marriage, a sacred bond ordained by God Himself.
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When God saw that Adam was alone, He declared it not good for man to be alone. God created Eve as a suitable companion for Adam, and upon seeing her, Adam exclaimed, “This is now bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh!” This expression of unity and belonging shows the intimate and inseparable nature of marriage.
God's blessing upon the marriage of Adam and Eve signifies His approval and sanctification of this union. The commandment to be fruitful and multiply shows the importance of marriage as a means for the continuation of the human race and the fulfillment of God's plan.
Hebrews 2.9-11
In Hebrews, we find a beautiful affirmation of the dignity and worth of humanity, including the sacredness of marriage. The author declares that Jesus, the Son of God, became fully human, sharing in our nature and experiences. This act demonstrates the immense value that God places on humanity, including the institution of marriage.
Sunday Reflections: Marriage is Both Natural and Supernatural
Jesus' incarnation highlights the importance of marriage as a reflection of the divine union between God and His people. Just as Christ is united with His Bride, the Church, so too are husbands and wives united in the sacred bond of marriage.
Mark 10.2-16
Jesus' teaching on marriage in Mark reinforces its sanctity and indissolubility. He condemns divorce, declaring that those who divorce and remarry commit adultery. Jesus said, “But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.' What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder.” This strong stance emphasizes the seriousness of marriage as a lifelong commitment.
Jesus' words also highlight the importance of mutual respect and love within marriage. He reminds us that husbands and wives should love each other as Christ loves the Church, a selfless and sacrificial love.
Saint Augustine of Hippo, a renowned theologian and philosopher, emphasised on the sanctity of marriage and its spiritual significance, viewing it as a sacrament that reflects the union between Christ and the Church. Augustine believed that marriage is a source of grace and sanctification, helping couples to grow in love and holiness.
Saint Thomas Aquinas, another influential theologian, explained that marriage is both natural and supernatural, viewing it as both a human institution and a divine sacrament. Aquinas argued that marriage is a source of unity, procreation, and mutual assistance, reflecting the love and communion that exists between God and His people.
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The sanctity of marriage is a profound and enduring truth that has been celebrated and upheld throughout Christian history. The Bible, the teachings of saints, and the wisdom of theologians all point to the sacredness of this union, ordained by God Himself.
