Today’s Picture: The Betrothal of Mary and Joseph by James Tissot
The Teachings of Jesus: Divorce
In Jesus’ culture it was possible for a man to easily divorce his wife who would then be expected to return to her family home in disgrace.
Jesus challenges the Law concerning divorce.
Such a change was good for women.
Marriage is seen as a union under God.
Though marriage may not be as popular today as in previous generations,
there is a depth of love that can be reached given life-long faithfulness and a willingness to work through problems.
Preparation: Begin by stilling; then dedicating the time of prayer to God and asking God that all you think, feel and imagine are for the glory of God.
Gift: Ask for what you desire. Suggestion: The gift of perseverance in Love.
Setting: Either imagine you are listening to Jesus with the Pharisees or just slowly read the Bible passage below and see what stands out for you.
Matthew 19:1-9 HCSB.
Some Pharisees approached Jesus to test Him.
They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife on any grounds?
“Haven’t you read,” He replied, “that He who created them in the beginning made them male and female,” and He also said:
“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife,
and the two will become one flesh?
So they are no longer two, but one flesh.
Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate.”
“Why then,” they asked Him, “did Moses command us to give divorce papers
and to send her away?”
He told them, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives
because of the hardness of your hearts.
But it was not like that from the beginning.
And I tell you, whoever divorces his wife,
except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.”
Conversation: Talk to Jesus in your own words about whatever has come up for you or how the prayer has made you feel.
Final prayer: Finish with a formal prayer such as the Lord’s Prayer/Our Father.
Today’s Music
Today’s Music: Ubi Caritas, written by Paul Mealor
Click for more music from Paul Mealor