"Purity of Relationship"
God uses the marvel of creation to instruct us and to show forth His power, especially when He created man and woman (Gen. 2:13-23). This should lead us to worship God, as in Psalm 8: 1: "O Lord, our lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth who have displayed Your splendor above the heavens."
In the Gospel today (Mark 10:2-5), the Pharisees were testing Jesus by questioning Him regarding divorce. They were hoping that he would excuse their infidelity. Marriage is one of the deepest and most profound changes that anyone can experience, so difficulties can occur when two people establish such a close relationship. For those who are planning to get married, know that people who fall in love and are contemplating marriage need advice and counsel, especially from the church. Within the marriage relationship, understanding and self-control are needed. Your attitude toward another becomes your attitude toward yourself. Circumstances may change and so may your spouses. In short, your relationship will be tested. A marriage vow is more than a contract that we can break by paying damages. It is a binding obligation to love, honor and cherish one another for as long as you shall live, because Jesus has asked you to do so. It's not that easy. Some say it's a vow that keeps you faithful even when you don't feel like keeping your vows. But by the help and grace of God, we keep these vows for life because we have learned that love is more than a feeling, it is a commitment. In any relationship, the power of promise involves responsibility.
Gen. 2:24 and Mark 10:7-8 says "For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother ... and the two shall become one flesh." This means becoming one, and staying together in any situation. Marriage is just one of the principles in the Bible that we must understand deeply. Obviously, divorce is not being encouraged here. It is not the way to escape from responsibilities. Consider the hurt and sorrow it brings to those we care for! The enemy will try to destroy good relationships and sadly, some marriages have already failed. But in marriage we honor Christ by following His lead of sacrificial love and care. Love is a foundation to keep any relationship stronger, as in our service and commitment to the church: it must be done in love, for God is love. We must be united to face the challenges and trust God always to be with us to guide us. Let us hold on and give glory to our God, creator of heaven and earth.
