God describes the union of a man and woman in an interesting way. The Hebrew and Greek words are often translated "they shall become one flesh" (see Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:5). The image is of two distinct---recognizably, unmistakably different---people coming together and forming "one life".

Beverly and I did that, though neither of us realized it at the time. She took my name. We lived together. We shared everything---my love for my old apartment, her dislike for my old apartment, our search for a new apartment. But we were different people. We still are in many ways.

But over time, this "one life" began to take shape. The journey was not about careers, where we lived, wealth or, more often, lack of it. Not about whether or when to start a family. Nor was this "one life" formed by difficulties we met along the way---trials, illnesses, tragedies, or death.

Our life together----our "one life"---was formed, shaped, and molded through a shared focus, not on each other, but on someone else. For whether in times of happiness or days of sorrow, we discovered that everything always comes down to two simple words...but Jesus.

But Jesus was calm in the storm...But Jesus said to follow Him...But Jesus showed compassion...But Jesus wept for the hurting...But Jesus remained when others ran...But Jesus stood against evil...But Jesus said to have courage...But Jesus had mercy...But Jesus forgave...But Jesus...But Jesus!

And while such is important to know in a marriage, "one life" is about more than two people.

When Jesus walked this earth, people were terribly divided. We still are. The world says, "Embrace your differences. Have pride in yourself. Stand apart from the rest...because YOU are better than THEM." But Jesus says...No, you're not. Focus on me!

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Mark 12:30) If you love me, do what I have told you to do. (John 14:15) I have different sheep, but they all listen to my voice. There is only one flock. Love one another. (John 9:14-16; 13:34-35)

We are a distinct---recognizably, unmistakably different---people, not only from the world, but even from one another. We are separated by nationality and location, politics and culture, church and denomination, and sometimes simply by choice.

Yet we are saved by one God. We are a part of one family. We are called to one life. And as we grow in this one life, we look not to our differences, but to our unity in Christ Jesus.

When Beverly and I got married, we thought life was what occurred around us. But Jesus showed us the truth. Life is what occurs within us. We no longer live for ourselves, but for Him. And our distinct---recognizably, unmistakably different---lives have come together to form "one life". May we all strive to live the "one life" Jesus has prepared for us.