As I sit to write this reflection I have been laid low with a tummy bug so I am drawing on the writings of 2 resources at my disposal, to openup discussion on two themes which are raised in the readings for today.

The first is the theme of “Gifts” –

Jesus is asked, by his mother, to act in accordance with his gifts. After initially refusing on the grounds that his “time has not ye come” he helps out at the Wedding by turning gallons of water into wine.

It may be assumed that, given the Word, which the church has received in Christ, the Church would be one place where everyone’s gifts are received and celebrated. Sometimes, that is so, but often the church can look like any other group of people, when some take power from others and many have gifts, which are never recognised.

Sometimes it is about some people serving others and creating dependencies – failing to see that this takes life from people. Of course, we do need to help each other, but to do this too often does not invite in the other a sense that they have something to give, too. It may be just a small thing but it matters. A church where people honestly look to find what gifts each person has is far more fully alive. An important thought as we approach our AGM.

The second theme is Belief.

Belief is a crucial theme in this passage and in the entire gospel of John. The Greek word translated “believe” occurs three times more often in John than in all the other gospels combined. This story of the wedding at Cana is preceded by Jesus’ calling of the disciples. The Cana story ends with the disciples believing. Jesus’ sign has borne fruit. It could also be said that Mary’s trust precedes the belief of the disciples. As Mary Magdalene is the first witness to the Resurrection at the end of John’s gospel, so now Mary the mother of Jesus is the first to trust in the works of Jesus.

With Jesus’ mother, these passages invite us to trust in the God revealed by Jesus, who provides abundantly for life’s needs. When and where have you experienced the extravagance of God’s love for you and all creation? How might the worship and serving of your church delight in the abundance of God’s love that never runs out?

Blessings

Reverend Shan