Lest Vikings punter Chris Kluwe’s very public stance in support of marriage equality give anyone the impression the entire National Football League is particularly enlightened about these things, Baltimore center Matt Birk — afforded equal time by the editorial page at the Minneapolis Star Tribute — has his own take on the issue. “Not all NFL players think redefining marriage is a good thing,” argues Birk, adding that he sees no dichotomy “between providing basic human rights to everyone and preserving marriage as the sacred union of one man and one woman.”
Marriage is in trouble right now — admittedly, for many reasons that have little to do with same-sex unions. In the last few years, political forces and a culture of relativism have replaced “I am my brother’s keeper” and “love your neighbor as yourself” with “live and let live” and “if it feels good, go ahead and do it.”
The effects of no-fault divorce, adultery, and the nonchalant attitude toward marriage by some have done great harm to this sacred institution. How much longer do we put the desires of adults before the needs of kids? Why are we not doing more to lift up and strengthen the institution of marriage?
Same-sex unions may not affect my marriage specifically, but it will affect my children — the next generation. Ideas have consequences, and laws shape culture. Marriage redefinition will affect the broader well-being of children and the welfare of society. As a Christian and a citizen, I am compelled to care about both.