Feast of Saint Godric of Finchale

Good morning. "I’ll do for you, if you do for me," or "Why should I do anything for him? What has he done for me lately?" Sound familiar? Keeping score is often a routine couples can easily find themselves getting into. Focusing upon the happiness of our spouse versus that of our own happiness can sometimes be a challenge. It can be difficult to keep a pattern of giving going in our marriage; human nature is not inclined to naturally tend towards being sacrificial or self-giving. Even in our giving sometimes we are inclined to do so with the expectation of our own gain or benefit. This only tends to set us up for disappointment. If however we do for our spouse simply out of a desire for bringing joy to our significant other then we’re not likely to be disappointed. If we focus daily on doing those things which are likely to please our spouse, our marriage is guaranteed to be a joyful experience. 

 One of the most important lessons towards experiencing a joyful marriage is that found in today’s Gospel, that if we truly have confidence in His loving care for us, we will not allow ourselves to be discouraged by the troubles that occur in our lives. Jesus assures us that "In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world."  This is especially true if we maintain our focus upon each other and make an effort at truly appreciating each other and earnestly making an effort each day to attend to each other’s happiness. We may face adversities, but if we focus on the things which are truly important then we’ll likely feel more fulfilled than we could ever imagine it to be possible. Like Saint Godric whose life we celebrate today true happiness is there for the taking if we direct our lives toward those things which matter. The lives of the saints along with the words of today’s Gospel remind us to examine our priorities and values, and to set our sights on higher things. Marriage can thrive despite adversity if our efforts are on set on those things which truly matter. Set our sights on those things which matter. Make a great day! 

 Today we recall the good life, gifts, and work of Saint Godric of Finchale.