Water into Wine
To reflect God’s heart to the world around us, we need to know God’s heart and, we believe, God’s heart is most clearly represented in Jesus. In the weeks leading up to Easter, we invite you to explore the life of Jesus by reading the Gospel of John with us. As we delve into the richness of scripture, we’ll utilize the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, which invites us to slow down and posture our hearts to hear from God. With that said, let’s begin with a prayer:
Open your time by reciting these words:
Lord, as I approach scripture, prepare my heart to encounter You in its pages. Quiet the distractions that pull me away and open my eyes to see Your truth. May I encounter these words humbly, with an open mind and a receptive spirit. May my time in Scripture be a sacred encounter that deepens my relationship with You and transforms me into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Lectio (Reading)
Take a moment to read John 2 slowly and attentively. As you read, pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you. Allow the text to wash over you, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart.
“What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.” John 2:11
Meditatio (Meditation)
In John 2, we find two remarkable events that reveal profound truths about Jesus, His ministry, and His heart for us. First, we're introduced to Jesus' first recorded miracle, where He turns water into wine at a wedding in Cana (verses 1-12). This event holds profound significance, not just in its miraculous nature, but in what it reveals about Jesus' character and purpose.
This isn't merely a display of Jesus' power over the elements. It's a glimpse into His heart of abundance and provision. Jesus doesn't simply meet our needs; He exceeds our expectations. He turns scarcity into plenty and brings joy in the midst of lack. This reflects the nature of God's grace - overflowing and extravagant. Just as He transformed water into wine, He can transform our ordinary circumstances into something extraordinary. He reminds us that no moment is too small for his attention, and no problem is too insignificant for his intervention.
Take a moment to reflect on the words you have read. Reflect on Jesus' presence at the celebration and His first recorded miracle, turning water into wine. Imagine the embarrassment of the hosts. Put yourself in Mary's shoes as she turns to Jesus for help, trusting in his ability to intervene. Consider the obedience of the servants who fill the jars with water, despite not fully understanding Jesus' instructions. Reflect on the reaction of the master of the banquet as he tastes the wine, unaware of its miraculous origin.
Contemplatio (Contemplation)
This miracle reveals Jesus' compassion for people in their everyday struggles. It shows His willingness to step into our moments of need and provide abundantly beyond what we could ask or imagine. Jesus isn't just concerned with meeting our basic needs; He delights in bringing joy and abundance to our lives. Moreover, this miracle points to Jesus' identity as the One who brings new life and joy. The wine Jesus provides isn't just any wine; it's the best wine, surpassing what had been served earlier. In Jesus, we find not just a temporary fix, but a transformational encounter that brings richness and fullness to our lives.
Take a moment to consider areas of scarcity where you need to experience God’s abundance. Thank God for being concerned over the circumstances in your life - regardless of their size and significance.
Actio (Action)
The second event in John 2 occurs when Jesus enters the temple courts and finds them filled with merchants and money changers (verses 13-25). He overturns their tables and drives them out, declaring, "Stop turning my Father's house into a market!" This act isn't fueled by anger alone; it's a demonstration of Jesus' passion for purity and reverence. In our lives, there may be areas where we've allowed distractions and worldly pursuits to clutter our hearts—the temple of the Holy Spirit. Jesus invites us to allow Him to cleanse and purify those spaces, driving out anything that hinders our connection with God. He desires intimacy with us, unobstructed by the noise of life's distractions.
Take a moment to consider areas in your life where distractions are cluttering your heart. Ask God to clear those away so your focus will remain on Him.
Oratio (Prayer)
Close your time by reciting this prayer or lifting up your own:
Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts open to your transformative power, just as Jesus turned water into wine and cleansed the temple. May you exceed our expectations and bring abundance into our lives where there is scarcity. Help us to recognize and remove any distractions that hinder our intimacy with you, so that we may experience the fullness of life you offer. Amen.