March 27, 2023 – “Relationships”

“Some Pharisees came, and to test him they asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” He answered them, “What did Moses command you?” They said, “Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of dismissal and to divorce her.” But Jesus said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart he wrote this commandment for you. But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh.Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” Mark 10:2-9

Relationships are so important—especially to Jesus. We are to consider our relationship to G-d, and to each other, and how we can better these relationships. In other words, relationships are a work in progress—especially our relationships with a partner or spouse. In a perfect world, there would be no need for laws about divorce. In a perfect world, we would not need to consider laws for ending a relationship – because in a perfect world there would only be perfect relationships. But, we do not live in a perfect world, and our relationships are often interrupted by sin. The imperfect nature of this world is the reason that our relationships go sour. G-d’s intent for all relationships would be roses and sunshine. But we do not live in paradise – and so it is necessary to have laws that protect us from neglect, brokenness, and abuse.

But divorce should not be misused neither. Love for each other and the love of G-d should be at the heart of all of our relationships. But, when our relationships do suffer, we need to know that G-d is there to sustain us in the difficult times and to bring healing in all aspects of our lives. While human love is imperfect, G-d’s love is unconditional, perfect and limitless.

Let us pray: Dear G-d, may the words of my mouth, the thoughts of my mind, the motivation of my heart, and the actions of my life be pleasing to you. Amen.

Pastor Dave