In today’s first reading, we hear Isaiah describing to the Jewish people returning from exile the kind of relationship that God wants to have with them (and ultimately with all believers); that of a marriage covenant. God says He will marry them, and rejoice in them, and that all will be able to see His delight. It seems fitting, then, that Jesus’ first public miracle, the first demonstration of His compassion and His power, takes place at a wedding.  

We’ve read this Gospel passage many times…the bride and groom ran out of wine, a huge embarrassment for them.  Mary, out of her compassion for the plight of the couple, pointed this out to Jesus just as she continues to intercede for us and our needs daily. Although at first Jesus seemed reluctant to get involved, Mary showed her complete trust in Him by telling the servants to do whatever He told them. They did as Jesus instructed them, although I can imagine they were skeptical at best. But Jesus came through, and turned ordinary water placed into dirty vessels into a very large amount of fantastic wine.  

Circling back to the theme of God’s marriage covenant with us, one attribute of a good marriage is trust in one’s spouse. God loves us so much that He sent His only Son to be our savior, and He wants good things for us. We need only to ask, and then listen for God’s answer. Sometimes what God tells us to do may seem contrary to what is commonly accepted…like putting water into dirty vessels and expecting good wine…but God has our backs, and He knows what is best for us. May we all have the grace to confidently ask for what we and others need, and ability to listen to and trust God’s answer.  

Reflection by Parishioner John Ceglarek