Today’s reading is John 2. In this chapter Jesus performs his first public miracle. This is the miracle that set in motion the rest of his life and catapulted him into his ministry as Jesus our savior.
It was a wedding. In those times wedding celebrations were more than just a day. The betrothal or “engagement” was for a year or more. During that time the groom would prepare everything for his bride. His preparations were confirmation that he was able to adequately provide and care for her once they were officially married. The wedding itself would last about a week with celebration after celebration. Wine was a very important part of this celebration. It stood for joy and happiness. The groom would be humiliated, ashamed and embarrassed if the wine ran out because it would indicate he was unable to sufficiently provide for his wife. Mary, Jesus mother, noticed that the wine had gone dry at this wedding. She may have been nervous or worried for the groom. So she went to Jesus with the problem. Joseph had passed away by this time so it was natural for her to go to her oldest son for help. Mary says in John 2:3 “They have no more wine”. Jesus response in John 2:4 was “how does that concern you and me? My time has not yet come”. This response does not seem like the respectful words we would expect from Jesus to his mother, but keep in mind that he was 30 years old and on the brink of his ministry. His thoughts were not on the wine, but on what will happen after he changes the water to wine. People will notice and start to talk. There will be no turning back. Jesus was becoming focused on who He is and and what was next. Mary simply tells the people who are working the party to “Do whatever he tells you”. She knows who Jesus is. Remember the virgin birth? She has known all her life that he was special. So Jesus tells them to fill the jars with water and then dip some out and take it to the master of ceremonies. They followed his instructions and the water was turned to wine and the party kept going and there was much joy and happiness! They couldn’t believe that the groom saved the best wine for last.
Jesus turned the grooms humiliation into a miracle. He brought joy where there was embarrassment and shame. The wine symbolizes joy and Jesus was the source. The things in this world that bring us joy will eventually go stale. Only Jesus can provide real and lasting joy in our lives. He replaces the cheap wine we are used to for the best wine imaginable. Can you imagine what the wine Jesus made tasted like? He provides for everything.
Remember what Mary said to the workers, “Do whatever he asks you to do”. Obedience to Jesus will bring us into His joy. What is the cheap wine in your life? Are you doing what Jesus asks you to do? I usually know what I need to do, but am slow to do it. I am looking forward to the miracles that continue to happen in our world today. While 2020 has not been ideal, there is still great joy to be experienced while walking with Jesus.
Joy to you today!