Feast of the Four Crowned Martyrs

Marriage is truly a gift, a gift from God as a way of becoming holy and knowing joy in this life. From the beginning God our Creator recognized our need for companionship and gave us the sacrament of matrimony. It is most unfortunate that many in current days look upon marriage as something other than the lasting sacrament it was intended to be, for when the “bad times’ and the “sickness” present themselves as they will, many look elsewhere for “good times” and “health.” It is most unfortunate that even amongst church leadership that the sacrament of marriage is looked upon with such fear. Many view marriage with much uncertainty and pessimism. Some folks even enter into marriage with pre-nuptial agreements just in case the “good times” don’t last (which by the way is forbidden by the Church). Marriage is viewed with so much reluctance and uncertainty that one would think they were parlaying a bet at the track; church leaders often emphasize providing programs and supports for divorced instead of needed programs and supports for married couples. We are in the midst of a ‘culture war’ and the sacrament of marriage is one of the key targets for attack. I just read yesterday where in Mexico City there is consideration for having marriage licenses become renewable every two years. People today frequently look to people married for any measurable length of time and shake their heads in wonderment as if they have achieved something beyond normal human achievement. Not so says Our Lord in today’s Gospel. Jesus assures us that nothing is impossible with God. He notes we never accomplish anything good but for God’s grace. People forget that with marriage comes sacramental grace and God’s help is always with us for the asking. God never withholds His assistance. Yes, marriage can truly be a gift; we just need to remember where the gift comes from. Make a great day!

Today we recall the good lives, gifts, and works of the Four Crowned Martyrs. Heavenly Father, as we recall the constancy of these martyrs in the profession of the faith, may we experience their kindness in recommending us to your mercy, and may these four stone builders intercede for all married couples in receiving your grace that all might have the proper foundation and supports needed for a lasting marriage.