October 5, 2003

In Paradise every creature was in right relationship with the Creator. Man and woman harmonized with each other perfectly. All things fit naturally into the plan for God. Today's Readings retrieve this vision of our origins and our destiny as a model for all our relationships here and now.

The creation story paints a picture of a blessed garden called Paradise where all creatures are at peace with one another and with God. Man and woman are equal partners. Then something happens. Sin and discord. Paradise is lost, but not forever. The story of our origins also describes our destiny. We believe that we are destined to find that paradise again when the reign of God is full realized on the last day. In the meantime, we are called to let that incredible vision transform every relationship we have here on earth.

The second Reading today points to the dignity of all human beings as brothers and sisters of Christ. In the Gospel message, Jesus overturns society norms by emphasizing the equal rights and responsibilities of men and women in marriage. Then he embraces children not as third class citizens as they were in society, but as precious models for all those who would find Paradise here and now. Radical equality and dignity, trust in God and harmony with one another bless the relationships of those who see Christ in all their brothers and sisters.

While Jesus' words challenges those who are married not to give up the pursuit of Paradise, that certainly does not mean people should spend their lives searching for the perfect mate! Nor, should anyone live in shame and blame for hurting in failed marriages. Recognizing that the perfection of Paradise will only be found in eternity, we all can still open our hearts to the possibility of seeing Christ in one another despite our differences. Such openness is a step forward finding blessing within our far from perfect human relationships.

SO THE QUESTION: WHAT INTERFERES WITH OUR ABILITY TO FIND PARADISE HERE ON EARTH?

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