Seasons: Spring — Monday
John 2:10
…“Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.” (NIV)
If you’ve ever seen the hit television show The Office, you may be familiar with the scene where Michael Scott, the office boss, attempts to explain to his audience who Jesus is. He exclaimed, “I’ll give you a hint. His last name is Christ. He has the power of flight. He can heal leopards.” You might not have heard of Jesus flying around or healing leopards, mainly because it never happened, but I’m guessing you’ve probably heard of Jesus’ first miracle where He turned water into wine. Therefore, I’m not wondering whether you’ve heard of this story before; instead, I’m wondering if you know why Jesus performed this miracle.
There are a few reasons, as well as many significant symbols to note in this particular miracle. Today, I want to focus on the fact that He performed this miracle at a wedding, and the significance behind that fact. The special kind of joy and love integral to a wedding are also perfectly representative of the ministry of Jesus. He came to us because of love, and the fruit of a relationship with Him is joy. My wedding day was one of the most joyful days of my life, as I chose to be in a covenant relationship with my wife because of the love we have for each other. I find it interesting that the Bible parallels our relationship with God to that of a wedding and a marriage. Jesus, the bridegroom, embraces His bride, the Church. When we come into relationship with God, because of His love for us, our lives are now marked by the joy we have in Him.
Today’s verse describes what is most important about this story. The wine that Jesus created was the best wine, and it was saved for last. There are many symbols that we can draw from this, but put simply, life with Jesus never ceases to bring about the best. This doesn’t mean that life on this earth is perfect, nor does it mean we will escape hard times. However, life with Jesus, regardless of external circumstances, is continually filled with joy, and the best is always yet to come.
Monday’s Reflection
Pray this today: God, thank you for never ceasing to bring about the best things in life. Life with you is filled with so much joy. If I don’t feel that joy right now, will you please help me rediscover what it means to find my satisfaction and joy in you alone? Thank you, Jesus. Amen.
