Moment of Meditation: Like the Angels (Matthew 22:30)

''[Jesus says:] "In the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven" (Matthew 22:30).''

This is probably the most misunderstood passage in the entire Bible. Many people take this verse to mean that we become angels when we die. That is '''NOT''' what Jesus is saying. Angels and humans are completely different creatures. Angels serve their purpose unseen in the heavenly and earthly realms. Humans serve their purpose in the eyes of others.

Jesus says here that we will become '''LIKE''' the angels. Like them only in that we will not be married in Heaven. Marriage is an earthly arrangement. It was instituted because the one thing God saw as "not good" in His creation was Adam being alone (Genesis 2:18). In Heaven, we won't be alone. We'll be in the presence of God--Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We'll be surrounded by His glory that fills Heaven and earth.

This also doesn't mean that we should demean marriage. Or make marriage meaningless. Marriage is necessary for this life. For the procreation of children. For the mutual care and satisfaction of husband and wife. St. Paul says, "It is better to marry than to burn with passion" (1 Corinthians 7:9).

In Heaven, there will be no burning with passion. There will be no need for marriage. But on earth, we need marriage. We need husbands and wives to love and honor each other. We need to teach our children to hold marriage in honor and keep the marriage bed undefiled both before and during their marriage (Hebrews 13:4).

When we do these things properly, then we are like the angels while living in this world. Going about ministering in God's perfect will to those around us. Amen.