Matthew 19:12
“Some are incapable of marriage because they were born so; some, because they were made so by others; some, because they have renounced marriage for the sake of the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever can accept this ought to accept it.”
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The institution of marriage is God’s gift to society, so we must honor it. Society often values freedom over commitment. But it is commitment and responsibility that turns a boy into a man, and a girl into a woman.
Still, we would meet people, or even one of our relatives, that has not been married. And the gospel today would explain why.
Jesus further said that the person who can accept this challenge of celibacy should accept it, which is exactly how the Bible portrays Jesus Christ being single and celibate for the Kingdom of God.
However, that does not mean that marriage is bad, or sub-standard, rather it shows that He had His focus upon God and God’s plan for our salvation. Those people we know who are not married may have the same thinking. They may have decided to spend the rest of their lives taking care of someone, or taking care of something (like a business). And hopefully, they are doing this all for God’s glory.
And then there is the case of the Catholic priests. There are issues now pertaining to their vow of celibacy and so let us all pray for them that God may provide them the strength and wisdom for them to overcome each and every temptations from the devil. Let us pray for them as they pray for us.
Let us pray +
We thank you for our faithful priests and bishops, whose spiritual fatherhood and example of fidelity, self-sacrifice, and devotion is so vital to the faith of your people. Assist all spiritual fathers, that through your Grace they may steadily grow in holiness and in knowledge and understanding of your Truth. May they generously impart this knowledge to those who rely on them. Through Christ our Lord. Amen +
God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid.
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