1-20-2019 Reflection

Today’s gospel of the Wedding Feast at Cana is the third Sunday in a row where Jesus reveals Himself. Two weeks ago, Jesus reveals Himself to all the nations of the world, as represented by the three magi. Last Sunday, at His Baptism in the Jordan River, Jesus reveals Himself as the Son of God. We heard the voice of God the Father and the Holy Spirit appeared in visible form. Jesus begins His public life. His mission would lead Him to the cross.

At Cana, in the midst of celebrating a marriage with Mary and His disciples, Jesus reveals Himself as the Messiah. Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs at Cana in Galilee and so revealed his glory, and his disciples began to believe in him.

Why six jars each holding twenty to thirty gallons? Mary placed her trust in Jesus and the abundance reflects how lavishly Jesus pours our His generosity. Jesus invites each one of us to place our trust in Him through all circumstances of life. The gifts of the Spirit described in St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians reflect the abundance of God’s generosity – for the purpose of building up the kingdom of God.

In our first reading, God takes the difficult past of the Israelites and transforms it into a glorious future. Nations shall behold your vindication, and all the kings your glory…You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the Lord… In a similar way, Jesus can transform us: our pride into humility, impatience into patience, selfishness into generosity, doubt into trust, unbelief into faith, grudges into forgiveness, anger into peacefulness, fears into trust etc. So it’s not about changing water into wine…let Mary asked Jesus for what you need.

Do whatever he tells you. Mary’s words are meant for us. What is Jesus telling us to do? We find the answer in His words recorded in the gospels…to love one another, as I have loved you… to take up your cross and follow me.

God bless us all always!
Deacon Mike