The Sunday readings speak of the call of the prophets, the call of the first disciples, and the call to physical integrity.  In 1989, Bishop Troy encouraged preaching on the Sacrament of Matrimony on the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Those called together in the grace of marriage offer a much needed witness to each of today’s readings as we face the challenges of our modern world and its current circumstances.

The larger story in the Scriptures reminds us that it was not an easy path for the prophets. Many stumbled along the way.  Peter and his brother Andrew were far from perfect. Biblical figures did not achieve physical integrity instantaneously. Their spiritual descendents, the Churches of the East and West, have experienced a long estrangement of nearly 1000 years. 

In today’s world, married couples witness to God’s forgiveness through their willingness to forgive and sacrifice for each other. They call each other to holiness in a way that is prophetic for the world. They do so in a world that does not often respect their heroic commitment and humility before God.