I have only been back in the States for less than a week, and already my mind is overcome by the looming presence of the media. Free from television for 6 weeks, my mind was allowed to wander to different schools of thought, allowing me to really focus on the glory of God and what life is.
The biggest issue that is challenging my thought process this week is the idea of the M-word. Yes, blasphemous sometimes, a blessing at most, it is the idea of marriage. Now, I want to write about this, not because I have marriage on the brain. I must add a disclaimer to this idea by saying I am in no rush to head to the altar. But through the presence of the media, it has been brought to my attention the failings of our modern ideas of commitment to one another.
On Wednesday night, I happened to catch an episode of Larry King Live while I was at the gym, which gave way to the perception of the disintegrated institution in our society. Essentially, there was a panel of 4 individuals debating whether faithfulness in marriage is necessary for a successful marriage. The majority of panelists said that one should expect for their spouse to seek sexual relations outside of marriage. I am confused as to why one would get married if they plan to sleep with other people anyways. Tax purposes? The nice tag of Mrs. in front of a better sounding last name than the maiden name? Ridiculous.
Being in Hungary, the divorce rate is outlandish. Relationships there are no better, but they are not advertised via broadcast. Its a worldwide epidemic though, this lack of commitment.
Another important turn this week on the marriage front is the overturn of Proposition 8, allowing gays to marry. I am still unsure how I feel about this. Proposition 8 rubs me the wrong way anyway, only because I do not believe that some should have a right given to them in order to have it taken away. There must be better legislation if there will be certain acts implemented so that they will remain instead of taken away.
So how am I supposed to feel about marriage? According to society, what's the point? Two committed people should just live together, and marriage is not really necessary.
But deep in my heart I know that's not true. And I do believe in marriage still. I believe in the partnership, in being with your best friend despite hardship and trials. But now, after all this, I see marriage to be one of the greatest witnesses that a Christian can model. Not a fake happy union, but one that is real, and honest, and open to others. If society sees the effects of a working committed Christian relationship, how many people will turn to Christ knowing that He loves us as a bridegroom, who is completely committed to us despite all of our faults and failures.
Alright, and just because I love this song this week. A cover of Nina Simone's "Be My Husband" by My Brightest Diamond.
No comments:
Post a Comment