May the Lord give you peace and health in the Holy Spirit.
We reflect from Tobit 6:10-11, 7:1, 9-14, 8:4-9; and the Gospel from Mark 12:28-34.
We celebrate the memorial of Saints Charles Lwanga and 21 Companions, Martyrs. Ugandan converts from kingdom of Buganda now known as Uganda. On June 3, Charles Lwanga was put to death by king Mwanga who burned him to death. Charles replied: “You are burning me, but it is as if you are pouring water over my body.” He then remained quietly praying. Just before the end, he cried out in a loud voice Katonda! Which means “My God!”
During this month, the Holy Father Francis invites us to pray with him for the intention of ‘The Beauty of Marriage,’ as we are invited to reflect the marriage between Tobias and Sarah. The first reading attempts to answer all the questions of yesterday’s reading culminating in happy marriage of Tobias and Sarah presenting us with the model of perfect love of God and neighbour in the Sacrament of marriage.
What is it that sustain a marriage? Can fervent prayer save a marriage? The affirmative answer comes from today’s story from the first reading. It is love between man and woman in prayerful environment sustains and saves every marriage.
The waves of struggles and sufferings are bound to come in a marriage. With God in humble prayer the couples can overcome any barrier. Mercy and safety come from God always.
Listen to the prayer of Tobias. “I now am taking this kinswoman of mine, not because of lust, but with sincerity. Grant that she and I may find mercy and that we may grow old together.” (Tob.8:7). Love of Tobias and Sarah as husband and wife sprang from the living spring of love for God.
Happiness and peace surrounds for all those who love God and neighbour. Prioritizing the love of God with all their heart, soul, mind and strength, the couples grow closer to each other and to the neighbour.
Love of God is the root, and love of neighbour is the fruit of our existence and experience. Human affection can be infected by choices made in a rush. Hence loving God is the first thing we all need to do in our life; without which we cannot love our neighbour in truth and charity. We are near the Kingdom of God only by loving God and neighbour.
Knowing a commandment of love will not make us part of the God’s kingdom but loving does. May God bless your marriage and family in the joy of loving God and neighbour. Have a peaceful day.