An equitable, if unfortunate, solution to the same-sex marriage debate.

Luke 17:28-29King James Version (KJV)

28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;

29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.

Not since the civil war has America been so divided on a subject. Even though sexual orientation is 100% the choice of the individual (and not like a race that you are genetically born with), the liberals in this country have managed to frame the debate as a "civil rights" issue. Recent polling shows that Americans are almost 50-50 when it comes to gay marriage. And the Supreme Court will bring forth a ruling next month that will likely decide the issue for generations to come. We need to pray that they choose rightly and godly. 

But, even if they choose to say that same sex marriage is not a right, this will surely not end the debate. If they choose to say it is, the debate will still rage. Like it or not (and we, as Christians can neither like nor support it), according to the words of Jesus in Luke 17, the day will come where widespread immorality (including gay marriage and God knows what else) will be the law of the land. 

So, is there a solution that would work for all? Is there something that could be done that would level the playing field and work for all involved? 

Yes. 

Step 1) Remove marriage from the purview of all governments- federal, state, and local. Rather than issuing marriage licenses (and charging taxes- err, fees- to those who wish to be married), why not have the states just issue legal civil unions to all couples? The governments can then have varying (if ungodly, in some cases) classes, or types of civil unions. Then, whoever wishes to join in a union is free to do so. 

Step 2) Return marriage to religious organizations. In this way, whatever religion you follow, it can join you in marriage. You don't back down on your beliefs. You don't have to compromise your convictions. Nobody has to. You get married. Then, you fill out the necessary paperwork for the civil union. Then, the government recognizes your union. 

Step 3) Strengthen and maintain (or create, where you have to) religious protection laws. In this way, no person, or business, is forced to take part in ceremonies (or give benefits to) of any couple that goes against your religious rules. This protects everyone involved. 

Will this make everyone happy? NO. The left is hell-bent on forcing everyone to accept gay marriage. Many of us on the "religious right" are doubling down for a fight to defend marriage. But, what about "blessed are the peace makers?" 

To me, this seems to be the best (albeit unfortunate) way to bring peace to a bad situation. Is it perfect? NO. But, I think it's the best we will be able to do until the Lord returns. What say you?