Check out this conversation on a recent Colbert Report.As a pastor I perform many ceremonies and sacraments in the eyes of God. Yet when a wedding takes place it is the only time which I operate as both a servant of God and a servant of the State ("by the power vested in me and by the state of Michigan...").
Perhaps this is worth noting in the current debate over gay marriage. Marriage is the creation of one flesh between two people through the love and communion of God (the Scriptures mention nothing about the State's role in performing a marriage). If marriage is instituted by God, then the State's only concern should be one of rights and privilege (shared assets, hospital visits, etc, shared property, etc.) not one based in religion.
Marriage (as understood by the Church) has nothing to do with legality of assets insofar as the State is concerned. For couples who want to join lives of commitment by way of assets, etc they should go to the state (civil ceremony). If couples would like a deeper spiritual commitment, marriage, they should not look to the State/government but rather their particular church/faith community.
So when asked the question: "Should the United States legalize gay marriage?" I would answer: "No, But, the State shouldn't have heterosexual marriage either."
What are your thoughts on the State's involvement in marriage?
