The Miracle at Cana: Jesus, the Wedding Crasher Who Brought the Best Wine
Welcome to a new series called "At This Table," an early summer journey inspired by the way Jesus connected deeply with others at tables. Whether at Mary and Martha's place, the home of a Pharisee, or the Last Supper, many significant moments in Jesus' ministry happened at tables. This series comes with a challenge for you to choose your level of engagement: Easy, Medium, or Hard. But first, let’s explore the beauty and importance of food and fellowship.
Challenge for the Summer – Easy, Medium, or Hard?
Easy: Perfect for those in crisis or feeling overwhelmed.
Medium: Ideal for those doing generally well.
Hard: For those hungry for more of Jesus and eager for transformation.
The Gift of Food & Community
Food is a universal gift. I love it in all forms – ethnic, cheesy, grilled, dessert. But it wasn't until I was a sophomore in college, during a "Retreat of Silence," that I truly appreciated food as a gift. We were sent with a simple sack lunch and instructed to eat slowly, savoring each bite and thanking God for it. This experience opened my eyes to the goodness of God in giving us the senses to enjoy food. Preparing food is hard work, often requiring communal effort. This necessity drives us to gather around meals, fostering community. God designed food to be a part of our community life, not just for nourishment but to bring us together.
Jesus and the Table
Jesus often chose meals to connect and transform lives. His first public miracle at the wedding in Cana (John 2:1-11), where he turned water into wine, illustrates his transformative power and generosity. This miracle wasn't just about making wine; it symbolized the new covenant of grace, surpassing the old covenant represented by the ceremonial jars.
Observations from Cana
First, this was Jesus' first public miracle, his "coming out party." Although he seemed reluctant, saying, “My hour has not yet come,” he performed the miracle out of respect and love for his mother and the hosts. This act not only solved an immediate problem but also symbolized the abundance and quality of the new covenant he was bringing. Jesus performed miracles out of love and compassion. At Cana, he saved the hosts from social embarrassment, showing his care for their well-being. He attended weddings, dined with tax collectors and Pharisees, and each time, he brought transformation and blessing.
The Summer of 1,000 Tables
Our dream is to share meals with people who don’t know Jesus, aiming for the "Summer of 1,000 Tables."
Easy: Share one meal this summer.
Medium: Share a meal once a month.
Hard: Share a meal once a week.
The context doesn't matter – it could be a barbecue with neighbors, lunch with coworkers, or a hotdog at a golf course. The goal is relational proximity to non-Christians.
Pray, Eat, and Be a Blessing
When Jesus shows up at a table, he brings blessings. As you share meals, be intentional in praying daily, eating together, and being a blessing. Look for opportunities to make lives around you better through simple acts of kindness and encouragement.
Practical Blessing Examples
Sincere Compliments: Encouraging words to neighbors, especially dads, can be powerful.
Engagement: Playing with neighborhood kids or inviting them to events.
Acts of Service: Bringing meals to families in need or helping with yard work.
By following these simple steps, you'll see dramatic transformations in your relationships and opportunities to share Jesus' love.
Got it? Pray daily, eat together, and be a blessing. Reflect on what God wants you to do this summer. More insights and challenges await next week.
Let's embrace this journey together and make this summer a season of deep, transformative connections around our tables.
Blog adapted from May 19, 2024, message by Minister Mark Ashton
