When Theology and Reality Don't Meet

The phone rang. My dad tearfully explained that he and mom had separated and would be getting divorced. I was devastated, shocked and overwhelmed. My parents’ 34-year marriage was ending.

As a seminary student I’ve been in several classes that explored divorce. Up till now it’s been a topic I’ve been able to discuss from a purely ethical, theological or pastoral standpoint.

As my personal theology of divorce developed through these classes, I agreed with my professors as they stressed the importance of grace, forgiveness and the presence of Christ in divorce. But I also saw it as clearly not part of God’s plan; a sad mistake that too many couples make, and something that is avoidable with hard work and dedication.