Jesus’ First Miracle — Water to Wine
The symbolism and wisdom found in the events of Jesus’ life apply to us today. We also learn about the character of the One we are to imitate.
Last month, we looked briefly at Jesus’ first miracle in Saving the Best for Last. We can draw other truths and lessons from this event, and we are considering two more today.
Lesson One: Trust and Submit
Jesus and some of His disciples were guests at a wedding in Galilee. “When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, ‘They have no wine’” (Jn 2:3).
Jesus replied, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come” (Jn 2:4).
Mary turned to the servants and said, “Do whatever he tells you” (Jn 2:5).
Notice what Mary did not do. She didn’t argue. She didn’t wring her hands in distress. Mary didn’t doubt Jesus would handle the problem.
Mary had full faith that Jesus would act, although she had seen no miracles performed yet, either. Remember, this miracle was the first public display of Jesus’ divine nature and supernatural power.
What a sweet and trusting example her words are for us: “They have no wine.” She tells Jesus the problem, then she leaves Him to deal with it.
Mary submitted.
Do we totally submit to Jesus—unconcerned with the time and manner He answers our prayers?
Often, I do not.
Jesus calls us to leave our burdens with Him, big and small. And He wants us to trust Him to help.
We know Jesus acted after His mother’s words. He turned six large stone jars of water into wine. Wedding celebrations often lasted for days during this time and having no wine to serve would be a bad look for the family.
In His first miracle, Jesus shows He delights in elevating our joy. How fitting that it occurs at a wedding—a personal and joyous occasion.
Lesson Two: Deepening Our Faith
We don’t learn a lot about the effect the first miracle had on the guests at the wedding, if any. Perhaps they were unaware of it.
But John tells us how it affected Jesus’ disciples.
“This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him.”
(Jn 2:11)
The disciples were already believers, or they wouldn’t be followers of Jesus. But when they witnessed the miracle, they grew excited about what they had seen. As one biblical scholar points out, “their faith was deepened as well as called forth afresh.”[1]
Are we vigilant in keeping our faith refreshed? Do we remain alert to Jesus’ work in our lives on ordinary days? Do we share it with others?
Sometimes I do, but not always.
Awareness of Jesus’ everyday presence deepens the roots of our faith. Let’s pay attention to Jesus’ actions, and tell others about them. Let’s praise Him and give thanks.
Our response to His presence boosts our joy, and “the water of our ordinary lives is changed into wine.”[2]
How has Jesus made His presence known to you recently?
Thanks for reading! Are you interested in learning more about Jesus’ other miracles? Respond through email or by dropping a comment below.
Read The First Miracle here: John 2:1-11 ESV
*Scripture used is from the English Standard Version. (Photo: NickyPe Pixabay)
Immersed in His Love,
Candyce
[1] MacLaren Expositions of Holy Scripture
[2] Ibid.
Are we vigilant in keeping our faith refreshed? Do we remain alert to Jesus’ work in our lives on ordinary days? Do we share it with others? #Jesus' First Miracle #WatertoWine #ChristianLiving Share on X
Mary’s faith in this story is so amazing. I love it and pray to believe like her. Beautiful story. Thanks Candyce.
Thank you, Yvonne. I aspire to possess Mary’s faith as well. It’s certainly worth praying for. Have a good week.
I’ve always loved this story. Your message offers new insight. When you remind us, “Mary did not argue,” I asked myself, “How many times do I argue when I think my prayers aren’t being answered as I believe they should?” Thank you for this inspiring and though provking message, Candyce.
I know, Katherine. I argue, I rationalize, and I bargain. Mary sets a faithful example for us to emulate.
Mary was so wise. She submitted to God when He told her she would bear His Son. Now she submits to the Son for whatever He wants to do. Her faith knew He would do something. I love this story!
Mary’s faith is certainly inspiring and worth modeling. I’m thankful for the Bible and the characters that fill its pages.
“Are we vigilant in keeping our faith refreshed?” This is worth consideration. A fresh faith. One that hasn’t grown stale. I want that. Continually learning about Jesus, gaining new revelation through the study of His word, hearing testimonies about what God is doing in the lives of others. These are things that keep my faith refreshed. My part is to seek, pursue, place myself in a position to know Him more. Great post, Candyce.
I like how you worded this, “place myself in a position to know Him more.” God reveals Himself to us constantly, but I’m not always positioned to see Him. May we open our eyes, hearts, and minds to fully see and know Him.
Thanks, Terri.
Love this post, Candyce! Your question, “Do we remain alert to Jesus’ work in our lives on ordinary days?” caused me to ponder a couple of things that happened this week. Someone encouraged me with words the Lord knew I needed to hear. He also prompted me to step out in faith regarding a situation that I usually withdraw from. I’m grateful for these reminders of God’s work in my daily life.
I love your response. Isn’t it amazing how the Lord reveals himself to us in our daily activities? Paying attention to these small things trains us to depend on His guidance in all situations. I have to remind myself to stay attentive to His presence each new day.
Submission and deeper faith challenge me to examine these areas of my Christian walk.
Thanks, Lisa. These are areas that convict me, too.