[The Mayor]

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February 26, 2009

A Sad Split

ODB RADIO: Listen Now |  Download
READ: Malachi 2:10-16

Let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth. —Malachi 2:15

The drama played out in a nest of bald eagles monitored by a webcam. A beloved eagle family, viewed by many via the Internet, was breaking up. After raising several offspring in previous seasons, the mother again laid new eggs in the spring. But then a young female invaded their happy home. When Dad started cavorting with her, Mom disappeared and the life in the abandoned eggs died.

In an Internet chat room, questions and accusations flew wildly. Everyone who loved the pair was distraught. Biologists warned the amateur eagle enthusiasts not to attribute human values to birds. But everyone did. We all wanted the original couple to reunite. Everyone seemed to “know” that the family unit is sacred.

As chat room members expressed their sadness, I wondered if they knew that God feels much the same way about human family breakups. I also wondered about myself: Why did I feel more sadness over the eagles than over the fractured human families in my community? Clearly, I need to revise my priorities.

In Malachi 2, we see God’s view of marriage. It symbolizes His covenant with His people (v.11). He takes it very seriously—and so should we.

Thinking It Over
In Malachi 2:11, what is “profaned” and how?
How does Malachi 2:15 echo Genesis 2:24?
Why is this important? (Mal. 2:15-16).

Put Christ first if you want your marriage to last.

Bible in One Year: Numbers 15-16; Mark 6:1-29

[pollywog]

Oh my goodness Mayor. I can so relate to today’s ODB in so many ways! I adore bald eagles, and in fact are one of those “ internet viewers”! I also am watching the breakup of one of my dear children’s family, so this was a custom made ODB for me!

Thank you for your faithfulness in sending it every day.

Polly

[jaycee]

Thank you for the lovely message in the Daily Bread this morning, Mr. Mayor! Oh, if people would only listen!

[JustAmy]

Good morning, Rus.

I enjoyed reading about the eagle family this morning.

As we see these things happening in our own families, we need to remember this message.

Thank you for ODB.