GOSPEL

They talk the talk, but don’t walk the walk.
Reading from the Gospel according to Matthew. (Mt 23, 1-12)

Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying,
“The scribes and the Pharisees
have taken their seat on the chair of Moses.
Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,
but do not follow their example.
For they preach but they do not practice.
They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry
and lay them on people’s shoulders,
but they will not lift a finger to move them.
All their works are performed to be seen.
They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels.
They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues,
greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’
As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’
You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers.
Call no one on earth your father;
you have but one Father in heaven.
Do not be called ‘Master’;
you have but one master, the Christ.
The greatest among you must be your servant.
Whoever exalts himself will be humbled;
but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

The Gospel of the Lord

Motivation, order, perseverance, and joy.

Often, we mirror the scribes and Pharisees by dictating to our spouse their duties. Instead, we should apply these expectations to ourselves and treat our spouse with tenderness, offering encouragement and hope. Indeed, we shoulder burdens too great for us. At times, we assume the role of an all-knowing individual who freely imparts advice. However, the Lord teaches that this isn’t the correct approach. We should interact as siblings, as God’s little children, sharing joy and excitement.

Applied to the context of marriage:

Richard: Julia, it’s evident that we frequently fail to do as we should, both of us. This stems from a lack of determination, despite our mutual desire to follow Christ. We need to keep educating and fortifying our will. I’ve learned that the essentials for strengthening our resolve include motivation, order, persistence, and a blend of joy and enthusiasm. With this in mind, what strategies do you think we could employ to support each other?

Julia: As for motivation, I think love is the most powerful driver. Understanding what brings us closer to each other and to God, I feel that should provide ample motivation.

Richard: Okay. Let’s proceed to deepen our understanding of genuine love. Concerning order, I propose that when we commit to activities that bolster our will during our spiritual purification, we should establish a timetable and make it known that we are participating. This boils down to setting priorities, and it should be our primary focus.

Julia: Indeed, by doing so, we join forces in every endeavour. To enhance persistence, we must inspire each other to keep going. There’s much on the line. We shouldn’t be discouraged by the minor challenges that arise daily.

Richard: Absolutely, there’s much on the line. Joy and enthusiasm can only be attained by collectively turning our gaze towards the Lord and His grace, which He offers to us to make our transformation a reality. Like Mary, may our spirits find joy in God.

Julia: Embarking on this journey with you fills me with joy.

Richard: Yes, facing it together definitely makes it more manageable.

Mother,
Your presence is essential for our spirits to find joy in God alongside you. Thank you, blessed Mother.