Of all the miracles Jesus performed during his lifetime, turning water into wine may seem the most frivolous. After all, running out of wine may have led to some shame for the newly married couple's hosts and families, but there is no evidence that this condition would have threatened life or even livelihood. Later in John's gospel, Jesus would cast out demons and unclean spirits. He would alleviate the hemorrhaging of a woman who had been suffering for twelve years. Jesus would even raise Lazarus from his deathbed and a twelve year-old girl from her sick bed. Does running out of wine meet those standards?
Mary advises those working at the wedding to do what Jesus tells them to do. Jesus then follows that invitation with three directives: fill the containers, draw the water, and taste it. The entire passage is filled with symbolic images and actions, and these directives transcend the particulars of the miracle of Cana. Like the wedding guests, we are invited to experience God's goodness fully. Let us resist being satisfied or resigned to the emptiness that life offers and fill our lives' vessels with Living Water. By doing so, we will create reserves that we may draw from during times of trial, famine, grief, uncertainty, and despair. Jesus invites us to taste it — to test and verify what is good and true and available to us. When we fill, draw, and taste, we will find miracles. We may even become miracles.
On January 20, we will celebrate the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Like the miracle at the wedding at Cana, Dr. King's message to the world speaks of transformation, hope, and the realization of a new and better reality. Like Jesus in this passage, King sought to fill a void, draw out hidden potential, and offer a taste of a more abundant and just life for all. He brought the message of hope and transformation that is central to the Gospel.
Based on John 2:1-11
Music this week:
Hallelujah (your love is amazing)
Abide
Holy Spirit Rain Down
In the Light
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
All Who Hunger, Gather Gladly