God the strengthening factor in marriage

Abstract

Every human being needs to fulfill his goal in life. Consequently,when two persons, male and female decide to get married, they need to realize that this cell originated in, and from God the Father. In Genesis (1, 27) one finds that, 'Male and female he created them to his own image and likeness,' so their union in holy matrimony reflects God Himself. This union springs out of the 'love' male and female hold for each other. God Himself is 'love' (1Jn 4, 8), so married love is rooted in God. Moreover, the everlasting unity between Him and His Church (Mt 28, 20), could be easily paralleled to the everlasting bond between married couples as stated in Ephesians (5, 25). This unity was even emphasized further by Pope Paul VI when he spoke of the family as, 'The Domestic Church' (LG 11), where the Spirit dwells. Hence, God, through the Spirit, is really the strengthening factor in marriage. In this Long- Essay, I will try to present this idea through a Biblical, historical background on marriage. It would be followed by various authors' points of view on the subject. Lastly, I would add my reflections regarding the importance of God's presence in marriage. I pray that this may become an instrument in God's hands that His 'Word' would find meaning among all married couples.