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| Painting by Kathy Durdin Credit: kathydurdin.com |
I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs—how he can please the Lord. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife— and his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband. I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord. 1Corinthians 7: verse 32 to 35
It is interesting that there are monks and nuns in most societies around the globe. There is a choice. Both are fine. Paul thought that in his particular time, singleness was more straightforward. I have come across a number of young people who choose not to have children, because they are fearful for the current state of the world, and whether child will be suffering due to climate change and possible war.
I see Paul's thoughts as echoing the message from the creation story. The Creator intended to have a sole relationship with one person. That person could not cope with this, and pined for a partner. The Creator took pity, and much like a parent, knew that their child would break that promise that every child makes to their parents, that they will never leave.
There is something special about being fully content to be the person we are. Any change will open different doors, with different challenges and blessings.
PRAYER: I put you first in my life, and then those I love, and myself, but in close order.
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