by Evie Stone

On the eve of the candidates' joint appearance at Saddleback Church, a new ad has appeared from the pro-Obama Christian group The Matthew 25 Network. It's called "Families."

The ad features a range of pastors and theologians talking about Obama's commitment to family. The don't-miss quote:

Throughout his entire career, Senator Obama has stood by families...including his own.

Steve Waldman at Beliefnet wonders:

Might this be intended to poke John McCain for committing adultery in his first marriage? Seems that way to me.

Seems like it might. Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell, an Obama supporter (and Bush friend — he officiated Jenna's wedding in May), said this on a conference call with reporters this morning (via ABC news):

"His marital history has been duly recorded," said Caldwell, referring to McCain, "and as recently as yesterday I think it is, our pastor from Saddleback, Rick Warren indicated that he would not feel comfortable voting for an adulterer and I don't know exactly to whom he was referring but I think the data speaks for itself."

McCain's first marriage ended in 1980, and his relationship with now-wife Cindy McCain began before the divorce was final. McCain's first wife, Carol, has said she doesn't hold a grudge.

The veiled swipe would appear to be at odds with the group's stated philosphy. The name "Matthew 25" comes from the New Testament, Matthew 25:40, which reads:

'I tell you the truth, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did for me.'