Re: Verse reading–Ephesians 5:21-33 (day two)
“After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does for the church–for we are members of his body.” vs. 29-30
American culture has an obesity problem, this is a fact. The institution of marriage is in danger of becoming a mockery in our society. Sadly, this too, is a fact. Are the two in any way related? It can’t be as easy as loose weight-save your marriage, can it? Probably not, but this scripture cannot be ignored in light of our growing issues with health and marriage. When you think about it why would you concern yourself with another if you won’t take the fundamental steps to care for yourself? A body and mind that function at their peak have the energy and strength to care for others, specifically a spouse. Paul’s assertion is that it would be ridiculous that someone wouldn’t care for their own body, but here we are. It seems odd to find some biblical mandate to be fit, but to use the body as a starting place for relationships is indeed good wisdom. God’s gift of life to us is precious. Take care of yourselves, and by extension each other.