Something More
We recently started a Sunday Bible Study on the Gospel as it was written by John. One of the very last books of the Bible written, partnered with Revelation, John attempts to show the reader not only who Jesus is, but to look closely at what He does. It takes more than seeing to believe…you also have to listen to His Words. The last time we gathered we looked at Jesus first miracle, the wedding in Cana; the famous account of turning water into wine. And I want to focus on the first words Jesus spoke in this story.
Verse 4 states:
And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.”
Why is Bible Study important? Because we can break down the culture and the response together. If you read that in English it truly looks like Jesus is being …well, my daughter would say he has his sassy pants on… I have heard people say it is a 4th commandment violation. That stems from not knowing the culture.
We have it in English as well.
Hey Lady, Let’s Go! – bet you read that angry didn’t you?
My Lady, Let’s Go…what does that bring to mind? Caring urgency?
The Greek word for woman here has that same ability. Don’t put anger to Jesus words.
My Lady, what does this have to do with me? My Hour has not yet come.
What does this have to do with me? My time has not yet come?
Is that sass, or is that a savior who realizes that it is not His place to upstage the wedding party. Jesus knew that a miracle would shift the attention from the couple on what should be one of the greatest celebrations of their life to Him, and as He said, that day was not all about Him. When He says My time has not come yet, He is saying “please don’t make me the center of this.”
But what does He do?
Become a killjoy and let the party stop? Allow the couple to be embarrassed when the wine runs out?
No, He provides.
He provides 180 gallons of wine, the finest wine.
He provides it to the host discretely, allowing the family to take all the credit, in fact He allows the family to look lavish, saving the best for the end.
So what should we take away from this study?
Jesus gives to you as well, and He does so in abundance, freely, generously, and without having to be asked by you. He offers His Grace, His peace and His mercy.
And He celebrates the union of Him and the Church.
So why attend Bible Study, because just like at the wedding when you read the scripture I guarantee you that you will always find something more.
Blessings my friends,
-Pastor Dan