Reflection on September 22, 1982

https://www.ewtn.com/library/PAPALDOC/jp2tb94.htm

Through paragraph 1-3, I get the sense that the “betrothal” understanding of the Old Testament leading to the “marriage” of the New Testament may be correct. SJPII focuses on language like “in the name of God…the prophet turns to Israel as a bridegroom to his chosen bride.” He also discusses that “being chosen by a man” takes away the disgrace associated with adultery, widowhood, or even original virginity. God turns back to Israel again and again throughout the Old Testament after they have disgraced themselves, to once again “choose them” as His betrothed. But the marriage is not completed until the appointed time.

I also thought this idea fit with the idea that Mary, when Christ is conceived, is betrothed to Joseph, not married. The idea that she becomes pregnant, disgraced in the eyes of others, is taken away when Joseph accepts her as his betrothed again after the angel visits him in a dream. I had never heard about this taking away of disgrace when the bridegroom chooses his bride and that this can take disgrace away.

I think it also helps to understand the language where God abandons Israel at certain times. The quotes from Isaiah say “For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with immense love I will take you again.” During the course of a betrothal, this can happen. But after the marriage is completed, that is not the case. They are to be in union until death. Thus, we have a different attitude from Christ stating “I am with you always, even to the end of the age." 2 very different attitudes based on the circumstances of the relationship.

Also, in the Sacrament of marriage, the two are changed. Although they retain their individuality, they are transformed because of the union that is created. God does not change, but does come in a new form, Christ, fully God and fully man. And the bride is transformed. The Jewish people, the chosen people, through the sacrifice and union with Christ, are transformed into the Church. The marriage unites the two, the two become one, and through their union provide a new fruit, us, Christians.