January 16. Marriage.  Joyce said, “I’ve always liked the saying, A WEDDING IS A DAY, A MARRIAGE IS A LIFETIME.  It reminds us that marriage is the ideal start of a family.”  Paul added, “And for us the saying, “Jesus is the third partner in a happy marriage” has been very special and important too. There were times that I was inclined to forget that and rely on my own abilities and feelings.  We were lucky that we had some good role models for marriage and family life and also a very supportive priest. They really encouraged us in the more difficult times. 

 Scripture.  Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?   The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from and then they will fast.  Mark 2:18-22.  

Pope Francis.  AL236-8.  There are personal crises that affect the life of couples, involving finances, problems in the workplace, emotional, social and spiritual difficulties.  Some have the maturity needed to reaffirm their choice of the other as their partner on life-s journey, despite limitations of the relationship. They work patiently at strengthening the marriage bond.  They realise that every crisis can be a new “yes,” enabling love to be renewed and deepened.  AL236-238.  Reflect, share, act, pray.