In a discussion about marriage, one person said, "The key to a good relationship is that 'two shall become one.'" Another countered, "Yes, but which one?" Is it possible to be "one" without sacrificing our individuality?

Consider the musical term counterpoint —"the combination of two or more independent melodies into a single harmonic texture in which each retains its linear character." In Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," a moving piano accompaniment (which sounds like a simple finger exercise) is set against a beautiful melody. Together they form a single piece without losing their distinctiveness.

After instructing wives to submit to their husbands (1 Peter 3:1) and husbands to show their wives understanding and honor (v.7), the apostle Peter said, "Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing" (vv.8-9).

How can two become one? Only through kindness and love; never by selfishness and retaliation. In the mystery of marriage, God allows each partner to be a unique melody. And in concert together, they become a beautiful harmony in His grand song.  —DCM  — David C. McCasland