Suara Keheningan | RP. Inosensius Ino, O.CarmDear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Today, we reflect on the profound meaning of relationships, both between human beings and with God, through the three readings from Scripture.
In the first reading from Genesis 2:18-24, we see how God Himself created humanity to live in communion. "It is not good for the man to be alone," says the Lord. From this, it is clear that human beings are created as relational beings. In marriage, man and woman are united in deep love, a lifelong commitment that reflects God's desire for harmony and unity. Yet, often in our lives, these relationships are tested by differences, challenges, and hardships.
We cannot ignore the fact that our lives are frequently marked by wounds in relationships. Many of us have felt the pain of separation, misunderstanding, and even betrayal. However, in today's Gospel reading, Mark 10:2-16, Jesus brings us back to God's original vision for marriage—a union that is indissoluble. Jesus firmly rejects the Pharisees' attempt to "test" Him on the matter of divorce, reminding them that from the beginning, God created humanity to live in a bond of love that should not be broken.
Jesus invites us to view relationships not merely as social agreements or legal contracts, but as a reflection of God's faithful love—a love that is ready to forgive and heal.
But how can we maintain or restore relationships that have been damaged or broken? The answer is found in the second reading from Hebrews 2:9-11. Here, we hear how Jesus became human and experienced suffering and death to save us. He shared in our weaknesses, bore our suffering and sin, and through His love, we are all brought to perfection.
Jesus came to save us, not only in terms of personal salvation but also in restoring our relationships. In Him, we are called to live in radical love—a love that is willing to forgive, a love that remains faithful even in difficult circumstances. This is the essence of the Christian life: a love that dares to endure, a love that always seeks reconciliation.
This love is made concrete in the Sacrament of Marriage and in our families. It does not mean that it is always easy; many differences and uncertainties often test relationships. Yet, amidst all challenges, we are reminded that God Himself is our source of strength.
Jesus gives us the example of humility, embracing our human frailty and restoring relationships through His saving love. This is also reflected when Jesus says, "Whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." A child is full of trust and dependence on their parents, teaching us that relationships with God and others must begin with simplicity.
Here, we can learn from Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, who is known for three important virtues: humility, total trust in God, and boundless love for the Lord. In her spirituality, we find a "little way" of humility that teaches us to recognize our limitations and place everything in God's hands.
First, humility is the first step in restoring relationships. Often, our ego and desire to always be right prevent us from acknowledging our faults in a relationship. Saint Thérèse shows us that humility means accepting our weaknesses and entrusting the healing of our relationships to God. In humility, we open ourselves to receive love and forgiveness.
Second, trust in God is essential when we feel our relationships have hit rock bottom. There are times when we feel it is impossible to heal the wounds in a relationship, but as Saint Thérèse demonstrated, total trust in God's providence strengthens us to surrender everything to Him, knowing that His love and will are always the best. This trust reminds us that God can heal every wounded heart.
Third, boundless love for God becomes the foundation of every healthy and whole relationship. Saint Thérèse teaches us to love in a simple but radical way, just as Jesus loves us unconditionally. This love is a love that forgives, a love that is patient, a love that never stops striving to repair and restore. When we cultivate this boundless love in our relationships, we live out Jesus' call to love our neighbor as ourselves.
By following Saint Thérèse's "little way"—humility, total trust in God, and boundless love—we can experience healing in our relationships, both with others and with God. In His love, wounded relationships can be restored, broken hearts can be healed, and we can live in true peace.
