The easiest way for Satan to bring sin into the lives of God's people is through relationships with the opposite sex. Humans face daily the strong temptation of pleasures of the senses. So easily do people, young people especially, give in and seek to satisfy selfish desires. Often times, men and women unknowingly and sometimes knowingly lead others to impurity by including them in uncharitable flirtations and body language. These empty, uncaring relations halt the soul's journey to Christian perfection.
A holy relationship between a man and a woman begins with his and her love for Christ. Saint Francis de Sales wrote: "But if your bond of intercourse be charity, devotion, and Christian perfection, then indeed will your friendship be precious; precious because it has its origin in God, because it is maintained in God, and because it will endure forever in Him." The fruits of such a friendship are not evil carnal indulgences and unsettled souls, but rather a love that reflects heavenly love. Before two people can join in the communion of Holy Matrimony, they must first seek communion with their first love, our Lord Jesus. From this devotion to Jesus comes the graces to lead a selfless life. Without the humility that comes from the aspiration for sainthood and discipleship, how can a person sacrifice oneself for his or her spouse?
Discipleship is most clearly manifested in a person's relationships with others. Disciples, followers and friends of Christ, are the light of the world for those who have never known Him. The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, explains that a disciple is someone who gives himself over completely to following the Lord. The key to giving of oneself to the Lord is through charity. Charity is the greatest treasure to those who put God first in their lives. Therefore, individuals who are poor in spirit become holy examples by their self-giving in relationships.
Saint Josemaria Escriva gave these words of advice: "When you decide firmly to lead a clean life, chastity will not be a burden on you: it will be a crown of triumph." The decision to lead a clean life is the beginning of the struggle to be a disciple of Jesus. Chastity and virtuous relationships with the opposite sex are, as St. Josemaria Escriva describes, "the crown of triumph" in the spiritual life. The humble and charitable disciple replaces his or her inclinations for carnal pleasures with a desire for communion with God. Only with spiritual communion with our Creator can we fully love our spouses.
