February 15. Jeannette and David continued their discussion with others in their group.   ”Sexuality has been a complex, enjoyable but difficult matter throughout history.”  “We learned through Marriage Encounter that God’s plan is for joy, that their sexual relationships can be the deepest form of communication of oneself.  And yet even in good marriages there is the pain not only of childbirth but of personality clashes and arguments. On top of that the issue of sexual abuse and domestic violence in families, which is spoken about so much today, is a scourge in society.          

Reflect, share. Scripture To the woman the Lord said, “I will greatly multiply your pain in childbearing, in pain you shall bring forth children, yet your desire shall be for your husband and he shall rule over you. From Genesis 3:9-24  Pope Francis:  Sex can often become depersonalised and unhealthy; as a result it becomes the occasion and instrument for self-assertion and selfish satisfaction of personal desires and instincts.   Sexuality risks being poisoned by the mentality of use and discard. AL 153.  JUBILEE] We, however, by virtue of the hope in which we were saved, can view the passage of time with the certainty that the history of humanity and our own individual history are not doomed to a dead end or a dark abyss, but directed to an encounter with the Lord of glory.   SNC 19.  Prayer and action.    Thank God for the gift of sexuality and pray not to abuse this gift. Choose appropriate action.