As this is a discussion forum I am not trying to convince you--or anyone--of anything. A little about myself: As a in a large family, and then later as I entered school, I was fascinated by all the different perspectives around me. Just as some collect stamps and coins, I have always collected perspectives. My mom was always black-and-white on perspectives: Hers was right, and everyone else was wrong. I am not in that realm, I exist in the grey, and I very much enjoy exploring the various shades in grey.
One of the reasons I fall so hard for God, is throughout time, God has been in our midst, has met us where we are, and led and guided us to something--not only better--but greater. He did this in Egypt, from slavery to freedom--and along the way it seems the Jewish people were among the first to turn away from owning slaves themselves. Joseph was in a well...then in prison...and was led/guided to be an advisor to a king. Jonah ran...even so, was led/guided to save a city. Examples continue in the Christian New Testament and many are rooted in Jewish teachings where there is even a higher, finer level: Don't commit adultery, don't even lust. Don't go the required distance, go twice the required distance. Don't kill, and don't remain angry.
Something greater....What is greater than divorce? Working out marriage vows through love. Greater than abortion? Welcoming new life.
A non-religious way of thinking is, Do we settle for what is easiest (become settlers) or do we travel on over the difficulties of mountains and valleys (become pioneers).
