Did you know that there are two creation accounts in Genesis? We saw the first part of the second story of creation yesterday. Today we see the more complete version of God making a partner for the man. “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone.’ ” He then puts man into a deep sleep and forms the woman from the man’s rib. And the man says, “This one, at last, is bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh.”
I’m sure you’ve heard of the best-selling book “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus.” While that may seem true in a psychobabble kind of way, the real truth is that men and women are from God. The two were not created to be “equal” to one another, though in one sense they certainly are, as we are all equal in the eyes of God. God created men and women to complement each other. Isn’t it funny? It’s very un-PC to talk this way, but the areas where men tend to be weak – i.e. nurturing, sharing emotions, relationships – are where women are strong. And men have strengths in areas where women are not as strong.
The Catholic notion of sacramental marriage has its genesis (nice play on words, huh?) in today’s first reading. “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one flesh.” It's interesting that this reading would pop up on Valentine's Day. As we reflect on this, wouldn’t today be a great day to pray for marriages? Marriage is under a full-out frontal assault by the Evil One today. Pray that husbands and wives may truly become “one flesh.”
Father, we thank you for the gift of men and women. We pray especially today for marriages, that married couples can give their lives to You, Lord, as they give themselves to one another. Amen.
Lent is only three weeks away! Consider helping your parish learn more about the faith by purchasing copies of A Minute in the Church to give away on Ash Wednesday or the first Sunday of Lent. Order today at www.GusLloyd.com.
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