Section 4 | Rule 8: Regarding the Custos Incapacity to Fulfill the Law of Love Without Christ

Let the husband beware that of his own power and will, he is incapable of loving his wife as Christ loves the Church. For as our Lord said, “Without me you can do nothing” (Jn 15:5). Therefore, it is imperative that in his weakness, the Custos depend upon Christ entirely. For as the holy apostle says, “I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13); and “No word shall be impossible with God” (Lk 1:37). As the holy doctor states, “One cannot give what one does not possess” (St. Augustine). Therefore, let the Custos make every effort to first abide in Christ, that Christ may abide in him, and abiding in him, Christ’s love may be given to his wife through him.

Therefore, as the Custos’ love for God increases, so also will his ability to love his wife increase. If his love for God becomes indifferent, or hostile, so eventually will his love for his wife become indifferent or hostile. Therefore, let the Custos examine how he loves his wife, and this will be a good indication as to how he loves God.

Devin Schadt | Executive Director of the Fathers of St. Joseph

Ite ad Joseph