Kesetiaan Cinta Suami Isteri - Fresh Juice 13 Juni 2025 - RP. Antonius Rajabana, OMI - Jakarta

Summary

In this reflection on faithfulness in marriage, Father Antonius Rajabana emphasizes the importance of unconditional love, loyalty, and unity between husband and wife. Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, he highlights that adultery, even in thought, harms the relationship, and stresses that true love should grow stronger and purer over time. Marriage, he explains, is a sacred vow and a path to holiness, with couples called to live in harmony, forgiveness, and selflessness. Through their commitment, couples embody Christ’s love, becoming true disciples. The sermon encourages couples to cherish and appreciate each other as gifts from God.

Takeaways

• 😀 Faithfulness in marriage is central to the Gospel message, with an emphasis on purity and commitment between husband and wife.
• 😀 Jesus teaches that even lustful thoughts are considered a form of adultery, urging us to guard our hearts and minds.
• 😀 Marriage vows are a promise to love in both joy and sorrow, and this love should grow stronger, purer, and more complete over time.
• 😀 True love in marriage is unconditional and should be free from self-interest or ego; it is about giving oneself completely to the partner.
• 😀 The goal of marriage is to purify love, not to justify infidelity, which weakens the marital bond.
• 😀 Couples should aim to deepen their unity, both physically and spiritually, to strengthen their marriage.
• 😀 A marriage grounded in love and faith in God helps couples face challenges and maintain unity, even in difficult times.
• 😀 Infidelity is never justified in the context of marriage; reconciliation, although challenging, is always possible with effort.
• 😀 Marriage is a spiritual journey where husband and wife are called to love each other as Christ loves us, becoming true disciples of Christ.
• 😀 A healthy marriage involves total acceptance of each other, including both strengths and weaknesses, and is a reflection of God’s love.
• 😀 Couples should view their relationship as a path to holiness, where their mutual love leads them to sanctification and happiness.

Q & A

What is the main theme of Father Antonius Rajabana's reflection?

The main theme is the importance of loyalty and fidelity in marriage, particularly based on the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, as well as the unconditional love that should exist between husband and wife.

What does the Gospel reading from Matthew (5:27-32) teach about adultery?

The reading highlights that adultery is not only an act but also begins in the heart with sinful desires. Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of avoiding sin, even suggesting drastic measures like removing an eye or hand if they cause one to sin.

How does Father Antonius describe true love in the context of marriage?

True love in marriage is unconditional and unchanging. It should grow stronger and purer over time, not dependent on circumstances, and is centered around complete self-giving and mutual respect.

Why is infidelity or adultery in marriage considered unjustifiable?

Infidelity is seen as a betrayal that weakens the bond between husband and wife. It undermines the unity that marriage aims to build, and instead of bringing the couple closer, it creates distance.

What role does marriage play in the spiritual life of a Christian couple?

Marriage is viewed as a spiritual journey that reflects God's love. By remaining faithful and loving each other, couples live out Christ's command to love one another, thereby growing closer to God and to each other.

What is the significance of the marriage vows according to Father Antonius?

The marriage vows are a commitment to unconditional love, both in times of joy and sorrow, health and sickness. The vows represent a lifelong promise to love and respect one's partner fully and without reservation.

How does Father Antonius view reconciliation in marriage after infidelity?

Reconciliation is seen as challenging but not impossible. Father Antonius encourages couples to make efforts to restore unity and deepen their relationship, both physically and spiritually.

What does Father Antonius say about total acceptance in marriage?

Total acceptance means embracing everything about one's partner, both the good and the bad. This is key to building a strong, loving, and unified relationship where both partners give themselves fully to each other.

How can communication and mutual understanding strengthen a marriage?

Effective communication and mutual understanding help couples navigate challenges and foster a deeper connection. These elements allow couples to work together in love, guided by faith, to build a stronger relationship.

What does Father Antonius mean by the 'power of love' in marriage?

The 'power of love' refers to the strength that comes from living in God's love. Couples who love each other unconditionally are not only strengthened in their marriage but also grow spiritually, achieving holiness and happiness in their relationship.