No Basis for a Marriage...

OK, I admit it; I'm a theology geek. Even before deciding to pursue a degree, I had assembled a fairly large library of theological reading materials. In fact, that was one reason I decided to work on the degree, since I hardly needed to buy any books for the courses.  I realize that most of the folks in the pews aren't as interested in the subject: so be it. It does make it a challenge for those who want more, though.


When I was little, probably about 4, there was a family that lived next door to us, who had a son just a couple of years older than me. According to my mom, one afternoon I came in from playing with him (through the fence) and announced that I had decided to marry Billy because he quit throwing rocks at me. Mom: “Just because Billy doesn’t throw rocks at you any more, that is no basis for a marriage!” Mom was right, of course. :P (fortunately, the family moved away a few years later, so her fears were assuaged.)


Should we be satisfied with the very least in our relationship with God and with His Church? I am certainly glad to be living in the 21st century with its modern conveniences, but are we really that much more enlightened than the great saints who lived in the Middle Ages? No, the Church does not dwell on Hell, but she also doesn’t deny its existence. We are coming upon the time in the liturgical calendar when we should meditate on the Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell. I am eternally grateful for Divine Mercy; at the same time, Jesus told Sr. Faustina that those who do not enter through the gate of His Mercy will have to go through the gate of His justice. (I vote for mercy ;) )

I pray for the day when the average Sunday homily will be something to really hash over theologically (yes, I’m weird), or at least not diss one of the greatest periods in the history of the Church.  In the meantime, I’ve been advised, “well, at least it's not Fr. ‘X’.” ('squishy' associate formerly stationed at our parish)  While that is true, and I am grateful, I hope that is not setting the standard for the future. It would be like marrying Billy…..