From the Gospel according to Luke
8:19-21

The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him
but were unable to join him because of the crowd.
He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside
and they wish to see you.”
He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers
are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

At first sight, this Gospel may seem puzzling, as it gives the impression that Jesus is disregarding His Mother and His relatives. Yet the reality is quite the opposite: He exalts them, showing the true reason why they are so close to Him — they listen to the Word of God and put it into practice. In doing so, they live in the same Spirit, which is what makes them one with Christ. Jesus seizes the opportunity to invite us to share in that same intimacy with Him.

For married couples, this means that there is no human bond stronger between us — and with Jesus — than the one given through the sacrament; the real presence of the Holy Spirit dwelling among us. Therefore, it is not simply about doing things together, sharing tasks or hobbies; it is something far deeper. Through our love, every time we give ourselves to each other, forgive one another, pray, and serve each other, united with Jesus, we allow Him to take flesh in us, to make us one, and to draw us into His intimacy. Who would ever want to miss that?

Emma: Oh James, I truly give thanks to God for the incredible union we are experiencing… and it is all thanks to prayer, James, and to the fact that we have been faithful to our prayer as a couple.
James: Yes Emma, that’s true. I used to think that maybe to grow closer we needed to share hobbies, or spend more time together… and of course those things do matter, but what is really helping us grow in love and in intimacy with each other and with the Lord is prayer. It is so important. It is essential to truly become one flesh; which is why the devil always tries to place so many obstacles.
Emma: Exactly, my love. We must be strong and persevere in prayer, because if we already feel so united now, we will be amazed at what the Lord will do with us if we never give up.
James: I’m giving it my best Emma. I’m giving the Lord a huge “Yes.”
Emma: That’s my dear James, oh how I love you!
James: And I love you…

Mary,

The holy Fathers of the Church used to say that you were more blessed for believing than for giving birth. You are the perfect model of a disciple who receives and treasures the Word. We ask you, Mother, that like you, we may always say hand in hand: Let it be done to us according to Your word. Praised be Mary forever!