Note: To help make your prayer even more centered on the Scripture itself, the contemplations will now begin with the Scripture first. If your reading of the Scripture suffices to draw you into prayerful contemplation, do not use the context and/or reflection points that follow. However, the context and reflection points will continue to be provided for those who benefit from the added guidance.
Scripture Reading: John 2:1–12
Context: After reading the Scripture above at least once, the following bullet points offer a short but detailed teaching on the Wedding of Cana:
- “…Jesus also was invited…” implies that He was invited because His mother was there.
- The mentioning of the “mother of Jesus” only occurs twice in the Gospel of John: in this passage and at the foot of the Cross (John 19:25-27). Thus, John connects the two scenes. In both of these scenes, Mary uniquely fulfills the role of mother.
- Mary simply informed Jesus of the dilemma, “They have no wine.” This was her intercession. She entrusted this small embarrassment to Him.
- Though Jesus had not intended to perform a miracle, He responds generously to His mother’s intercession.
- Jesus calls His mother “woman,” which is a sign of respect. This word is also used by Jesus from the Cross (John 19:26).
- Jesus speaks of His “hour,” which is a reference to His passion and death. Thus, even this first miracle points to that “hour.”
- “Do whatever he tells you.” These words spoken by Jesus’ mother are the best advice one could give and should apply to all matters in life.
- The miracle produced as much as 180 gallons of the finest wine. This is superabundance!
- “…you have kept the good wine until now.” This reflects the reality of life itself. While here on earth, we only gain a “taste” of “poor wine.” But God has prepared the best “wine” to be served in Heaven. Thus, this miracle is a prophesy of what is to come.
Reflection: Read the Scriptural story once again and then begin your contemplation by pondering the following:
- Imagine Jesus receiving word that He was invited to the wedding.
- Imagine Him walking with His new disciples to the party (a several mile walk). Imagine their conversation.
- Jesus had not yet performed any miracles, so He was not yet well known. Nonetheless, people were curious about Him.
- Imagine the joy of His mother when she saw Him. Imagine their love.
- Now slowly read John 2:1–12 once again and pause often to experience the scene in detail. Try to let the Holy Spirit lead your meditation.
Featured Image: Frans Francken the Younger, The Wedding at Cana
Introduction to Meditations for Ordinary Time
- Baptism of the Lord
- Two Standards
- Three Classes of Men
- Temptation
- Calling of Apostles
- Wedding at Cana
- Cleansing the Temple
- Sermon on the Mount
- Calming the Storm
- Walking on Water
- The Apostles were Sent to Preach
- Conversion of Mary Magdalene
- How Christ Fed the Five Thousand
- Transfiguration of Christ
- Resurrection of Lazarus
- Supper in Bethany
- Three Ways of Humility