Until death do us part! - Matthew 19:1-15

“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what

God has joined together, let no one separate (Matthew 19:6)

"God created man and woman," (Genesis 1:27) and He instituted marriage. The scripture quote above was the original plan. These verses are very powerful, especially the words, "let no one separate."

My husband and I are approaching our 41st wedding anniversary. We have often talked about why so many marriages fail and we came to the conclusion, people give up too easily. Society has made it simple to escape this union. Laws have been modified so there is 'no fault'. So why not bail when the going gets rough?  Because a marriage relationship is

• challenging
• worth the effort
• a gift from God

Our first few years together were very difficult, but we didn't quit. By our 12th anniversary we both started to have a personal relationship with Jesus and life became do-able. "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." (Eccl 4:12) Note, I said do-able, not easy. It still is not easy; it is never easy. There are seasons more comfortable than others; but all seasons take work, commitment and dedication—all wrapped up in love.

Relationships are hard work - any relationship.  What do you think about this?

To read the text for today go here.

Day of Judgment - Matthew 25:31-46

As I was reading the text for today I was surprised to read in a commentary, "If Christians who have resources, would help needy fellow Christians, non-Christians would be totally persuaded of the reality of Christian love."  I guess my surprise stemmed from the fact I was looking at giving and serving in a totally different light.  For some reason I equated helping the needy with helping the non-believer, but this makes so much more sense.

There is a song I remember singing with the line, "They will know we are Christians by our love."  The basis of our judgment will be how we cared for and loved God's people.  Jesus wants to invite us to join Him in Heaven, but if we don't know Him, we can't expect to receive an invitation.  It seems a key phase is God's people, for aren't we all His people?  Doesn't He want a relationship with each of us?

Giving of our time and our gifts to others, serves God.  Sharing our 'things' with others, serves God.  Touching the lives of others, serves God.  These all build our relationship with one another and with God.  Our generosity with God's people will result in God's generosity with us.  He will know we are Christian, followers of His Son, by our love.  We will hear the words, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world." (Matthew 25:34)

To read the complete text for today click here .  To return to this posting hit the back arrow.