Insights on marriage from Tobit: Daily Mass Homily--Thursday, June 7th, 2013

            In our long first reading from Tobit there were some rich insights about the love of a man and a woman. 

            First, Tobias and Sarah’s meeting was no accident: “Your marriage to her has been decided in heaven!”  For you husbands and wives, never forget that God knew of you and your spouse’s path from all eternity.

            Second, in the midst of a society where marriage and family life is crumbling, we are reminded of the purpose of marriage.  Tobias wisely states, “Now, Lord, you know that I take this wife of mine not because of lust, but for a noble purpose.”  The sacrament of marriage is meant to lead a man and a woman to heaven, having a companion to walk with on the way.

            Finally, Tobias and Sarah found their marriage on prayer.  On their wedding night the first thing they do is to get on their knees and pray together.  If you spouses aren’t already, be sure to incorporate prayer into your marriage.  Take a lesson from these two and pray from your knees before bedtime.

            Marriage is a great gift from God that many of you are blessed to experience.  Take a lesson from these two and pray on your knees with each other every day.