It is not merely familial bonds that unite us, but the kinship found in virtue, as we are called to live not by the flesh but by the Spirit. Cherish your spiritual ties to Peter and Andrew, so that they may intercede for you and liberate you from your afflictions. Armed with the word of God, rise up instantly and serve Christ, for our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly await the Savior, the Lord Jesus (Philippians 3:20). One does not serve Christ while remaining prostrate. Serve the needy, and in doing so, serve Christ, for He said, “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Therefore, dear widows, if you choose those as your guardians, those who uphold your family and community, you will find support for your needs. Peter and Andrew sought intervention for the widow, and how marvelous it would be to have someone equally fervent to ask for our aid—just as they pleaded for Simon’s mother-in-law. If they could advocate for her out of familial duty, how much more can they pray for us now. You can see that she found herself in great need, unable to pray for her own salvation, and requiring others to bring her plea to the Physician. The sick are often unable to intercede for themselves unless someone calls on a healer on their behalf. Their physical weakness, mental distress, and bondage to sin hinder their ability to reach out to this Healer. We must seek intercession from the angels assigned to protect us and earnestly appeal to the martyrs who, through their own sacrifices, can pleaded for us. They have cleansed their sins through their blood and thus can advocate for us, being the martyrs of God who guard our prayers, lives, and actions. We should not hesitate to turn to these mediators of our frailty, as they are well acquainted with human weakness, having triumphed over it.
Thus, Peter's mother-in-law found advocates on her behalf. You, widow, can discover those who will pray for you as well if you remain steadfast in your faith, seeking God earnestly, praying without ceasing, and striving daily to keep your spirit alive through self-denial. Avoid worldly cheerfulness so that you may find wellness in your trials; for “the woman who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives” (1 Timothy 5:6). Your reasons for seeking marriage may have diminished, but know that you have intercessors standing by for you. Do not lament, “I am abandoned,” for that sentiment befits one longing for marriage. Do not proclaim, “I am alone,” for the virtuous seek the solitude that brings them closer to God, while the unchaste seek companionship in numbers. You may have obligations, but you also have an intercessor. Though you may fear your adversary, remember that the Lord stands as your advocate before the judge, saying, “Defend the oppressed and take up the cause of the widow” (Isaiah 1:17). Consider your father’s inheritance, as it is a legacy more suited to a woman of dignity, and a widow serves her estate better than one who is wed. If a servant has wronged you, show forgiveness, for it is nobler to bear the faults of others than to burden oneself with one’s own. Acknowledge your desire for companionship, but merely wishing for it does not warrant condemnation. If it feels honorable in your sight, express it; if it seems inappropriate, then be silent. Do not cast blame on God or on your kin for a perceived lack of support. How I wish you did not harbor such desires! And do not claim to pity children taken from their mother in the event of your remarriage.
It can happen that, by circumstance and time, marriage occurs, yet why should mothers wed during the celebrations of their daughters? It is unseemly for a mature daughter to feel shame at her mother’s partner while preparing for her own union. While advice may have been given to change attire, it was never to don the veil of marriage; the guidance was to return from mourning, not to create a new matrimonial bed. What do you, newly wed, seek for yourself in choosing sons-in-law? It is decidedly inappropriate to have children who are younger than one's grandchildren.
THEOSIS