Michael Shiavo

I follow the story of Michael Shiavo with some interest, though I haven’t spent much time musing over all the ethical and philosophical issues. One thing I noted, however, is that the state (state in the sense of powers that be) has indeed become a beast that is opposed to the law of God, at least in the area of marriage. Nowadays no-fault divorce is granted at will (which Christ said is an affront to God who joined the two together), yet, as in the case of Shiavo, who committed adultery which is sufficient ground for divorce, he still retained “guardianship” over her and even wanted to pull the plug and get whatever money was left from her.

I have always thought that if the state has the power to grant marital status, it ought also enforce negative sanctions against adultery, etc., in keeping with what the law of God says. When this power has been abused and the concomitant duty has been neglected, I wonder if Christians who are married in the church need or should bother register their marriage with the state. Be that as it may, there are laws concerning inheritance and potential tax beneifts (or disadvantages, depending on your situation) which may still be considered. But the meaning of marriage is all but lost.