READ: John 2:1-12: … and manifested His glory …
A few days after calling the disciples, Jesus takes them to a wedding celebration in Cana in Galilee, where His mother is also present. He and His disciples are among the invited guests. There is a threat of running out of wine, which would not only be a major disappointment for the couple but a complete disgrace.
In that situation, Mary turns to her Son with a request to help. She may have thought of a miracle, because she knows that Jesus is the promised Messiah. In any case, He can help in one way or another.
However, Jesus makes it clear that His actions are not aimed at fulfilling human wishes, not even those of His mother, but at doing the will of His Father in heaven.
He no longer sees the relationship with Mary as one of child to mother, but first and foremost as Son to Father, who also has authority over His mother. Therefore, He corrects her (v. 4). His time to act has not yet been appointed by the Father; He waits for that.
Mary accepts this but also understands that the hour may yet come. That’s why she advises the servants to obey Jesus immediately if He tells them anything.
Then Jesus gets to work. There are several water jars standing there, used for hand and foot washing according to Jewish customs. They are no longer full. The first command is to fill them up.
Then comes the great miracle: the enormous quantity of water (6 x 40 liters) is turned into the best kind of wine—more than enough for a very large wedding. The master of ceremonies, who tastes the wine, is astonished. The celebration can continue.
But what is the purpose of this miracle? That the bride and groom are saved? That Mary is satisfied? No—verse 11 says: Jesus, through this first sign, revealed His glory, especially for the sake of His disciples’ faith in Him.
His glory is that He is the Light who gives restored life to people (see 1:4,9,14). That is what He shows at this wedding.
What is “the glory” of Jesus for us?
Sing: Ps. 72:7