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Both readings today are concerned with the observance of the Law. Paul, speaking to the Galatians, reminds them that in Christ they have been made free. However, some of the Christians, presumably Jewish converts, have been falling back into observance of the Law. There is a certain security in following rules and regulations but it is not the way of Jesus. The way of Jesus is the way of love and love has to be expressed in countless different ways, according to the particular circumstances of each situation. When Jesus was criticised for not washing before eating, He replied that inner cleanliness of mind, heart and spirit was of far greater importance. Similarly, Paul reminds the Galatian Christians that the real circumcision is not what is done to the body but the cutting out of all unloving thoughts and desires in the heart. "What matters is faith that makes its power felt through love," he says. And Jesus indicates one of the most effective signs of being on God's side - giving alms from what we have, sharing what we have (and not just our surplus) with those who are in genuine need. Protect us, Lord, from all religion that is purely external. Help us to have that pure heart that is filled with the faith that is revealed through loving actions. |
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P R A Y I N G W I T H T H E C H U R C H
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That young married couples may be sustained by the example and assistance of their parents and other families
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The testimony and help that parents and other families must offer to sustain young married couples finds its place in the ambit of post-matrimonial pastoral care. Parents and other families are the most suited to offer this assistance to young spouses because clearly they have lived personally the values which they must transmit. These parents show faithfulness through living in the best possible way the commitments assumed during their marriage. One could ask, but why is it necessary for young couples to be sustained by the testimony of their parents and other families? The answer is, because today there are many negative attitudes which scandalise and discourage young people. Being new to the condition of matrimonial life they need advice, encouragement, moral support, correction and prayer. They cannot be left alone or abandoned in this phase of their lives. Couples need to take advantage of the wealth of the experience and wisdom of their parents. "The pastoral action of the Church must be progressive, also in the sense that it must accompany the family, following it step by step in the various stages of its formation and development," (Familiaris Consortio n65, 69). | |
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