Water into Wine

Wednesday, January 7, 2009 -- Year One

Today's Readings for the Daily Office (Book of Common Prayer, p. 942)
Psalms 103 (morning) 114, 115 (evening)
Isaiah 52:3-6
Revelation 2:1-7
John 2:1-11

There are three stories that are traditionally identified with the feast of the Epiphany -- the baptism of Jesus, the visit of the magi, and the wedding miracle of turning water into wine. The word "Epiphany" means "manifestation" or "appearing". The presence and power of God appears through the incarnation of Jesus. He is manifested as God's beloved at his baptism in the Jordan River. When the magi visit, Jesus is manifested to the Gentiles. His first miracle, turning water into wine, is a sign revealing his identity as God's anointed. These three stories celebrate the appearance of God in Jesus. In some parts of the Christian world, the Incarnation of Jesus is celebrated on January 6, the Epiphany. In many parts of the church it is the day of gift giving.

So it is particularly appropriate on the day after the Epiphany that we read the story of Jesus' first miracle and sign, the turning of water into wine at the wedding feast in Cana of Galilee.

There is a big difference between water and wine. In this story, it is the difference between social disgrace and community acclaim. The host at a wedding is expected to serve and entertain his guests. For him to run out of wine would be a scandal that would bring shame. In a shame-based society, where social standing is strictly ordered by custom, such a failure of hospitality would shadow an entire family. It would be a serious breach of responsibility and trust.

Jesus rescues this family from shame. Jesus turns shame into honor. The feast and the celebration of the wedding party is renewed and strengthened rather than interrupted. The wine comes in abundance, extravagant gallons that will gladden hearts and oil the conversation of the joyful community.

Later, at the end of his life, Jesus will take wine again and use it to reinterpret his pending shameful death. He will transform his execution as a criminal into the path of life and resurrection. His companions will know the presence and power of renewed life through the breaking of bread and drinking of the wine of Eucharist, and their sorrow from the cross will turn to joy. The wine of Jesus' death comes in abundance. For thousands of years this gift has gladdened hearts and healed the hurts of the joyful community.

Life with Jesus is like the difference between water and wine. His presence bring color, depth, and flavor to our lives. His loving spirit relaxes our anxieties, opens us to joy, and brings us together into a community of celebration. He brings us good cheer. Let our hearts be renewed and gladdened this morning. The sun/son is arising and it is time to party.

Lowell

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About Morning Reflections
Morning Reflections is a brief thought about the scripture readings from the Daily Office of Morning and Evening Prayer according to the practice found in the Book of Common Prayer of the Episcopal Church.

Morning Prayer begins on p. 80 of the Book of Common Prayer.
Evening Prayer begins on p. 117

An online resource for praying the Daily Office is found at www.missionstclare.com
Another form of the office from Phyllis Tickle's "Divine Hours" is available on our partner web site www.ExploreFaith.org at this location -- http://explorefaith.org/prayer/fixed/index.html


The Mission of St. Paul's Episcopal Church
is to explore and celebrate
God's infinite grace, acceptance, and love.

Visit our web site at www.stpaulsfay.org

Our Rule of Life

We aspire to...
worship weekly
pray daily
learn constantly
serve joyfully
live generously.

Lowell Grisham, Rector

St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Fayetteville, Arkansas