"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no human being must separate." - Matthew 19:6
Marriage is a sacred union that brings two individuals together as one flesh, bound in love and commitment. The Catholic Church has always held love as a cornerstone of marriage, recognizing it as an essential element for the success and longevity of the union.
In the Catholic Church, love is not merely a feeling but a choice and a commitment. It is an act of the will to pursue the good of the other and to desire what is best for them. Love is the foundation of the marital bond, and it is a love that is sacrificial, self-giving, and unconditional.
In the Sacrament of Matrimony, couples are called to love each other in the same way that Christ loved the Church, that is, with sacrificial and selfless love. This love is not based on feelings or emotions but instead on a choice to be suitable for the other. This love is also unconditional, meaning that it is not dependent on the actions or behavior of the other person but rather on the commitment made in the marriage vows.
The value of love in marriage is that it provides the necessary foundation for a healthy and fulfilling relationship. Love allows couples to grow together, learn from each other, and support one another through the challenges and trials of life. Love is also what allows couples to forgive each other when they fall short, to be patient with each other, and to bear each other's burdens.
One of the most beautiful expressions of love in marriage is the marital act. In this act, the couple gives themselves completely to each other, both physically and emotionally. The Church recognizes this act as a sacred expression of love, one that is open to the possibility of new life.
The Catholic Church recognizes that love is not always easy and that there will be times when couples may struggle to love each other as they should. However, the Church also provides resources to help couples navigate these challenges. The sacraments, such as Confession and the Eucharist, can provide the grace and strength that couples need to continue to love each other in the way that Christ loves the Church.
In summary, the value of love in marriage, as described by the Catholic Church, is immeasurable. Love is the foundation of the marital bond, and it is a love that is sacrificial, self-giving, and unconditional. It is a love that allows couples to grow together, support one another, and forgive each other when they fall short. The Catholic Church recognizes that love is not always easy but provides resources to help couples navigate the challenges they may face. Ultimately, through love, couples can experience the beauty and joy of a lifelong commitment to each other.