Marriage & Family RelationshipsBy Reverend George FaragiIn my 29 years of ministry I have witnessedthe tragic decline and breakdown of the familyin this country, and I’ve seen how it hasaffected every area of our lives. Crime rateshave risen astronomically. Distrust of all formsof authority, and especially the neglect andabuse of the defenseless ones—the children—are only a few of the symptoms in ourailing society.We have become a society that is greatlyengrossed with “Me, Myself and I.” We are always concernedabout, “What’s in it for me?” We struggle daily with what I call theFrank Sinatra Syndrome to “Do It My Way!” This worldly mentalityhas even infiltrated our houses of worship.Our age is characterized by many conflicting philosophies andvalue systems. Some people advocate a variety of marriage formssuch as contractual, communal (living together), easy or quickiedivorces and experimental sexual relationships.<strong>The</strong> evidence is in, and the facts are on the table that suchlifestyles produce tragic results, growing numbers of disillusionedpeople and many deprived and often disturbed children. What is tobe the clergy’s response?Only the leading of God’s word and spirit can provide the neededperspective. Too many people are concerned about obtaining“things” in this life but our Lord said in Matthew 6:33, “Seek firstthe kingdom of God and His righteousnessand all things will be added to you.”You see, each biblical concept offers positiveguidance and combats numerousmisconceptions. When taught with sensitivityby God’s pastors, rabbis, teachers,and parents, God’s design for married lifeand family relationships can prevent manypained lives and offer healing therapyto many others.<strong>The</strong> biblical understanding of marriage and family relationshipsis related to the nature and purpose of God. Biblical views of man,marriage, sex and family refuse to explain life in terms of man’s selfchosenaims. God’s word insists that attempting to understand lifeapart from the divine purpose is the ultimate folly.God help us to make a renewed commitment in allowing God tocome back into our hearts and into our homes. We must be carefulthat we don’t speak empty words religiously and outwardly, butspeak renewed words of faith from the heart.May the Lord richly bless you and yours and maythe Shalom of God, the peace of God, with nothing missingand nothing broken, keep your hearts and minds through ChristJesus our Lord.Reverend George Faragi is Senior Pastor at Cornerstone Christian Center inBoca Raton, www.cornerstoneboca.com.• Ages 2-21• Most Insurances Accepted• No Insurance Referral Needed• Fun & Friendly“Outer Space” Atmosphere20401 State RD7 Suite G-14 • Mission Bay Plaza<strong>The</strong> new gentle waterlaseDENTAL LASER is used forremoving cavities and for softtissue procedures such astongue-tie releases & frenectomies.Voted "Best Dentist of Boca <strong>2006</strong>"(561) 470-1109Michelle S. Handel, D.M.D.General Dentist Limited to Pediatric DentistryAffiliationsDr. Handel is a member of the following organizations:• American Dental Association• Florida Dental Association• Atlantic Coast District Dental Association• American Academy of Dentistry for Children• Academy of Laser Dentistry• Advisory Board Committee Member of Career InstituteIsn’t it time to make your child’s dentalexperience enjoyable and fearless?Why bring your child to a dentist whouses needles and drills? We usestate-of-the-art equipment, <strong>The</strong> DentalLaser. No needles (in most cases) ordrills. Visit Boca Raton’s children’sDentist who has over 12 yearsexperience treating children of all ages.Coupon must be presented at time of service. Expires 6/30/06THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENTTHAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.100the PARKLANDER
the PARKLANDER 101