The convenient excuse for break-ups in a covenantal relationship treats everyone as a utility. It fails to tie responsibility and relationship as a call. Every call in our lives is to live fully in communion with God. This is the greatest gift we have received from God. Either in marriage or single blessedness; in religious life or priesthood, this gift of life is bountiful. Indeed, every call has its own hurdles and struggles. God did not promise a walk in the garden for us, but God promised that He would always be with us.

Concurring with the Pharisees’ instant legal convenience as an excuse to divorce allows stubbornness to enter our hearts. Without trial, it ruins the sanctity of our relationship. We would start asking God, “Why, how, and when did all this start?” Because of that, we conveniently itemise a litany of our demands as our prayer. We talk a lot in prayer, instead of shutting up and listening patiently to God. Isn’t it true that we refuse to listen to God because things are not according to what we want?

Perhaps, all we ever need is to pause and ask God for the grace of openness, appreciation and acceptance? The end purpose is nothing else but for the kingdom of God” (Mt 19:11-12). So, seize the immanence of God’s kingdom to commit to a life of holiness, one that remains faithful to the core.