Sunday Reflections | 27th Sunday in Ordinary Times

By SIDTP SoCom

Published on October 6, 2024

The Pharisees approached Jesus and asked, “Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?” They were testing him. He said to them in reply, “What did Moses command you?”

They replied, “Moses permitted a husband to write a bill of divorce and dismiss her.” But Jesus told them, “Because of the hardness of your hearts he wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of creation, God
made them male and female. For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate.”

In the house the disciples again questioned Jesus about this. He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”

People were bringing children to Jesus that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” Then he embraced the children and blessed them, placing his hands on them.

In today’s Gospel, we see Jesus being questioned about divorce. The Pharisees ask Him whether it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife. Jesus responds by referring to the creation story, reminding them that God made them male and female, and that marriage is a sacred union meant to last. He emphasizes that what God has joined together, no one should separate.

This teaching can feel challenging, especially in a world where relationships often struggle. But at the heart of this message is a profound understanding of love and commitment. Jesus highlights the importance of faithfulness and the beauty of the marriage bond. He reminds us that love should be deep and enduring, reflecting God’s unconditional love for us.

Later, Jesus welcomes children, showing us that the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are humble and trusting like them. This moment illustrates how God cherishes every individual, inviting us all to come to Him without fear. Children symbolize purity and openness, qualities that we should nurture in our own faith journeys.

In reflecting on this Gospel, we are called to consider the relationships in our lives. Are we nurturing them with love and commitment? Do we approach God with the trust and simplicity of a child?

Let’s take this opportunity to pray for stronger bonds in our families and communities, and to embrace a spirit of openness to God’s love. May we all strive to live out our relationships in a way that honors God and reflects His love to the world around us.