Sometimes we fall into the trap of believing that Jesus doesn't care about the day-to-day events of our lives. We somehow believe we shouldn’t bother God with anything but major events or needs. Surely God is too busy to bother with financial needs, arguments in the family, sick pets, or vacation plans. Perhaps He would be offended if we talk to Him too much, or ask about too many “little” things. Maybe that attitude is why our prayers tend to become weekly events--events led by the pastor in worship service on Sunday.
In today’s passage, John tells us about the first “sign” of Jesus’ ministry. As with other signs, like raising a mother's son from the dead, healing the sick, feeding five thousand (that's just the number of men present), or calming stormy seas, this sign of Jesus' divinity began with His compassion for people in everyday situations. There were many signs inspired by His compassion that are not listed in Scripture. Several times the gospel writers wrote simply that He “healed all that were ill” (Matt. 8:16 is one example). Jesus loved people. He laughed; He cried; He shared people's lives; and He cared. He still has that same compassion for you and for me.
When we laugh, when we cry, when we hope or need, Jesus is there with us. He wants to hear our problems and celebrate our victories. All we do is believe in His presence, His love, and His power into our lives. Jesus once said of Jerusalem, “How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling” (Matt.23:37). Jesus was speaking of a rebellious nation and people, but perhaps we can glean from these words His great desire to participate fully in our families and in our lives. God wants us to speak to Him and to listen to Him everyday concerning everything.
John 2:1-11 1. What role did Mary, Jesus’ mother, play in the first miracle? How do we see Mary’s faith in her Son (vs. 5)?
2. How do we know that the additional wine was provided by Jesus and not brought out of some hidden supply?
3. What’s the significance of John’s use of the word “sign” (vs. 11)? What other “signs” does John tell about?
For Family Reflection 4. What do we learn about Jesus as we see Him at weddings and other events? Is Jesus present at our weddings and other special events? 5. What was the purpose of Jesus’ miracles (vs. 11)? What was the result of His miracles? Does learning about Jesus’ miracles increase our faith in Him?
