Water into wine

My mom used to say that the story of Jesus turning water into wine was one of her favourite stories.

My mom loved it because Mary knew that being out of wine would embarrass the host. Mary not only knew that but she also knew that her son could fix it. She spoke to her son and he responded, “Dear woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.” (John 2: 4) Most people would have taken this as a rebuff and gone away. Mary, acting in this moment as a mother, not a follower of Jesus, did not go away or get insulted. But instead, this is what the text records; “His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2: 5)

Mary asserted herself. She knew how to solve this problem. Jesus didn’t push it, he just complied. When you look at the story it really is a very tender interlude. The beauty of the relationship can get lost in the miracle. Don’t get me wrong the miracle is amazing and important. But there is this lovely little moment between a mother and her son.

Buried in the Bible are these wonderful gems. In these moments we can see the humanity. God understands us.