Dear Brethren,

Within the past 50 years, seventeen states in the USA have fully adopted what is called a no-fault divorce. This term means that neither party within a marriage must show proof of a breach in the marriage contract from the other party to dissolve the marriage relationship. The justification of these so-called no-fault divorces in the United States originally was on the grounds of "irreconcilable differences." This is what West's Encyclopedia of American Law has to say to describe irreconcilable differences: "The existence of significant differences between a married couple that are so great and beyond resolution as to make the marriage unworkable, and for which the law permits a Divorce."

Think of the implications if God took this approach in His relationship with us. We are quickly approaching the festival of Passover, where we commemorate the suffering and death of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. The outcome of these actions serves to reconcile the carnal enmity of mankind to God the Father (Colossians 1:20-22). This word reconcile means the healing or restoration of a broken relationship. The breaks that are healed between man and God, are none other than the sins and faults of humanity. God did not deem these breaks as irreconcilable, although the cost to heal them is tremendous. As astounding as this is, add to this the fact that God was not at fault for the broken relationship, yet it was God who sought reconciliation with us. Even going so far as to pay the price required to bring us to Himself (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). We are very blessed that God did not claim irreconcilable differences with us and thus dissolve our relationship.

This time of the year, the restoration between us and God is on the forefront of our minds, but there is another aspect to this. As we accept the reconciliation that was offered by God through Christ, we are also called to internalize this characteristic and be reconciled to each other. Christ instructed us during His Sermon on the Mount - "Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift," (Matthew 5:23-24).

These verses prompt some questions. Within the body of Christ, how quick am I to claim irreconcilable differences with my brother or sister? In my relationships, as much as depends on me, do I dwell peaceably with all (Romans 12:18)? Do I commit my full effort into pursuing peace with everyone (Romans 14:19)?

These are all important things to consider as we reflect on the reconciliation pictured on the Festival of Passover.

Happy Sabbath to All!

Devin Schulz