Reflection for October 25th

Even though the reading from Ephesians seems woefully out of touch with the ideals of Christian marriage in our time, the author of this text, undoubtedly a male writing in the culture of his time, strikes a discord for wives.

I recall the many times this reading was referenced in discussions I had with my wife Carolyn. She is now deceased, but I value our joint perspective. For us it was the value of submitting our thoughts and ideas to one another. Even though it was a vulnerable topic in conversation, we grew to the point of understanding our commitment to one another. We recognized the opportunity for growth recorded in St. Paul’s writings in 1 Corinthians 13. “Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, is not pompous, it is not inflated.” In a sense, love does not seek its own interest.

We were involved together in life and in our church community. Our love relationship became part of the yeast that helped to bring new life to our parish community. This included involvement in starting and expanding many church ministries. We planted many seeds of spiritual and love energy.

For reflection: What seeds or yeast of spiritual energy are we spreading with our daily actions?

(Mass readings: Ephesians 5:21 – 33, Psalm 128: 1 – 5, Luke 13:18 – 21.)