Stir into flame the gift of God that you have

“I remind you, to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God.” (1 TM 1: 6-8)

The sacrament of marriage is powerful, not because of our strength or our dedication, but because it is His sacrament, Our Lord’s gift to us. He gave to spouses “not a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.” When we use all these gifts that we have received – “the strength that comes from God”— and when we cooperate with His grace, we can make miracles. Our rituals bring self-control, self-control supports love, love is powerful and “stirs into flame the gift of God.” 

“The word of the Lord remains forever. This is the word that has been proclaimed to you.” (Gospel Acclamation)