Home
Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
The Charism of Sion
The Family of Sion
Sion in the UK and Ireland
Events
News
Our History
More about Sion
Links
Genesis 2:7-8, 18-24 Psalm 128 Hebrews 2:9-11 Mark 10:2-16
The theme of this week's readings is marriage. The first reading from the book of Genesis describes the essence of the marital relationship. Firstly, it is a complementary relationship between a man and a woman and is on a different level from that of humans with the animal kingdom. Secondly, the man and woman are in close unity with one another; the account speaks of them being part of each other's flesh. Thirdly, marriage is monogamous and permanent, the partners belonging exclusively to each other
The question of divorce was a burning issue at the time of Jesus and Jewish law as set out in Deuteronomy was open to interpretation. A man could divorce his wife if she was unfaithful but some rabbis held that divorce could also take place in other circumstances. Jesus believed that the Deuteronomic law was meant for the time of Moses only but his own teaching underlined the permanence and unity of marriage described in the book of Genesis.
Relationships are of utmost importance in our lives. Let us reflect this week on our relationships with each member of our family and ask God to help us to grow in love for one another. Let us recognise that the quality of our society depends on a good family life with healthy relationships between husband, wife and children.