Jeff Tomson is pastor at Living Faith Church of the Brethren. The "Sex in the City" franchise appeal has escaped me, possibly just because I am a man. I attempted to watch a few episodes, but it really did not catch my attention. The plot seems to be that four friends try to find fulfillment as they live their lives in New York City which gives them opportunity to experience many worldly enticements. Ultimately they are left with an emptiness in things, social stature, and other entertainments. What is left? Personal relationships that quickly succumb to "hookin' up," regardless if it goes beyond a one-night stand.

We all want to belong, to be accepted and loved in spite of our frailties and flaws. This reality that we have created craves instant gratification and I guess that makes "hookin' up" the most instant and effortless form of human relationship that we can think of. We have mistaken physical proximity with togetherness. The problem is that these activities are superficial and leave us just as alone as we were before, but also a little more broken and afraid that we will never really be loved. This is true because they lack the intent of the life long commitment that we read about in Genesis 2:24 and Matthew 19:5. You see becoming "one flesh" is an emotional, mental, and spiritual thing rather than a physical act.

The Divine design of human relationship is a forerunner of the relationship that we are meant to have with God Himself. Seeking to know God is not easy, but not without its rewards. Knowing Him and His word lets us know that Christ came to make the Father known to us (John 17:26). He is with us always (Matt. 28:20) and he accepts us even before we loved him (Romans 5:8). The outcome of this relationship is consummated in rebirth, where our flesh becomes an extension of His will and joy.

I believe that we live in a time when the world is longing to be one with God, but unwilling, unable, or simply not patient enough to work at learning to know Him. As a result we are left with momentary excitements of the world to ease that pain and mask our loneliness.

The good news is this - in spite of everything you are loved. The One that loves you most, already knows you and loves you anyway. He has sacrificed a lot already to give you what you need. Are you willing to sacrifice the stuff that you don't need for the gift and life that He is offering?

This week I invite you to seek Him out in scripture, call on one of the local congregations, and to dare to reach for The One that offers forever not just a temporary "hook up."