Today at school, Jonathan gave a presentation about something he would like to invent: a time machine. Michael Kelshaw’s sermon on “Singleness Reimagined” had me thinking about several conversations I’ve had that I would love to revisit with the Good News he shared.

Conversation 1: Chemistry student and teacher Mrs. Butzin (that’s me :)

Student: “To be a wife and a mother would truly be my highest calling. Someday I will find the man God has for me and my heart will find true love, true masculinity, true fulfillment.”

Mrs. Butzin: “But [student], you’re still so young. Why don’t you let God show you the direction He wants you to go, and take it one step at a time?”

Student: “But I won’t be who He wants me to be unless I’ve got that true love. I don’t know what I would do if he doesn’t give me that!”

Now lets take the time machine back there and give this sweet girl the good news of the gospel! Mrs. Butzin: “[Student], you’re highest calling is as a follower of Christ, to glorify and enjoy Him forever! You are complete in him. The deep love, fulfillment, companionship, and intimacy you desire is already yours in Him. Even married people need to get those things from Christ. You can joyfully serve God in whatever circumstances he puts you in because you are HIS!”

Conversation 2: Erin and a Neighbor

Me: “Has the counselor been helpful for you and your husband?”

Neighbor: “Well… you should know that we’re separating.”

Me: “Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that.”

Neighbor: “Yea, we’ve had some really hard stuff. I ran into a friend I haven’t seen for years. She told me that she remembered when I was single and happy. I do, too. I just don’t think I can take it anymore.”

Time machine, take 2: Me: “You know, even though it seems like your life would be better if you were single again, your circumstances don’t change the fact that Jesus bought you with a very high price, and he wants you to honor God with your body in the circumstances you are in right now (1 Corinthians 6;19-20 and 7:23). Singleness is not superior to marriage, and marriage is not better than being single; but, living with undivided devotion to Christ is superior to all other relationships we have on earth.”

Conversation 3: Friend surrounded by church ladies

Church ladies: “We hesitated to ask, but what do you think about [Funny Guy]? You’re both single, and we were wondering if you wanted us to see what he thinks of you. Maybe set up a double date or something?”

Friend: “I don’t know. I’m struggling with the fact that I’m almost 40 and still single, but people are always trying to set me up with someone. I just can’t keep waiting in limbo like this!”

Time machine to the rescue: Dear friend, God is sovereign. All things were created by him, through him, and for him (Colossians 1:16). He rules over every person and every circumstance with perfect authority. As Michael Kelshaw said, “The relationship you are in is the one you were made for!” Earth-side relationships will all come to an end, but your relationship with Christ is eternal. You are living out His foreknown and entirely good plan. Your singleness is a gift. I’m sorry that we have pushed you and made you feel inferior because of your singleness. You are in the right position to serve the Lord and the church in a way that married people cannot. We need you. You are invaluable. Thank you for taking your role as a devoted follower of Christ seriously.