The permanent relationship we all have

There are many kinds of human relationships—from husband/wife, parent/child, to clerk/customer, employer/employee. These relationships appear to be shaped by both internal and external phenomena, and their harmony can supposedly be affected by age-old stereotypes, bigotry, heredity, and random circumstance. From this perspective, the achievement of stable and permanent relationships can seem tenuous at best, and frustrating and tragic at worst. One thing is certain: Connections with others can't be completely avoided—whether these are as brief as a contact with the checkout person at a supermarket or as enduring as a long-term marriage.

Is there a strong basis on which good and lasting relationships can be founded? Of course. The Bible points us in this direction when it tells us God is the only creator of man. He is our Father, as Christ Jesus showed us. Thus God is actually man's true and only relative! Man's relationship to his creator is sound and inseparable. Because man, as God's image and likeness, is and continues to be permanently related to God, good, he's permanently embraced in the harmony of the children of the one divine Parent. As the beloved offspring of God, Love, man reflects Him, and his purpose is to show forth Love's qualities. For this reason, everyone actually has inherent ability to express love and to be loved. An understanding of divine Love is the only sure basis for establishing greater harmony and stability in our human relationships.

But what about relationships that aren't loving or kind, that have become bitter mini-wars? What if we've endured mistreatment or have tried peacemaking efforts with no results? Can such challenging relationships be touched by God's love?

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A grievance healed
October 9, 1995
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