Remember that Amoris Laetitia is online in pdf format here. We continue on the theme of suffering. The Holy Father’s biblical examples reference grave sin and a bit of the hand of the demonic:
20. This thread of suffering and bloodshed runs through numerous pages of the Bible, beginning with Cain’s murder of his brother Abel. We read of the disputes between the sons and the wives of the Patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the tragedies and violence marking the family of David, the family problems reflected in the story of Tobit and the bitter complaint of Job: “He has put my brethren far from me… my kinsfolk and my close friends have failed me… I am repulsive to my wife, loathsome to the sons of my own mother” (Job 19:13-14, 17).
Some have commented on the frequency of references to the devil in Pope Francis’s talks and writings. Tobit and Job were just, as presented initially, yet they were also beset by serious problems–caused by non-human forces intent on wreaking serious mischief. Or just an ornithological accident. Even unnatural consequences have an effect on otherwise just persons–irritability is one of the least of the subsequent sins.
Should such tales replace romantic stories of love, and serve as a caution for young couples? What do you think?
Catholic Sensibility 