The institution of the sacrament of marriage is not conceived by man; it is a divine conception. The reply of Christ to this controversial issue on divorce shows us why it is divine. He mentions the words “from the beginning” which means that it was included in God’s creation. Man was created in the image of God. That is why he is different from the animals. Human beings share in the divine nature by virtue of grace. We are given intellect, will and authority. Man, being superior cannot find a helper among all animals. It has to be one who is “flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone.” God created one for him. Gen.2:24 says, “This is why man leaves his father and mother and becomes attached to his wife and they become one flesh.” Yet this spousal relationship is not just a physical one because it is still a reflection of another reality, that is, the relationship of God with man.
The prophets, especially in the Song of Songs, show us how God loves Israel as a bridegroom loves his bride, but this bride is an unfaithful one because of her idolatry. Yet God remains faithful. Untiringly, he continues to call her to Him.
Christian marriage is not merely a human contract that can be nullified. While affection between spouses can fade, God’s love creates a new relationship. God introduces a mature love that goes beyond the frailties of the couple. God’s love is so faithful that even when we sin, He continues to love us. Nothing can separate us from the love of God.
