Invitations–Not Miracles–Came First

Text: John 2:1-12
Theme: Jesus revealed his glory first where he was invited.
Key verses: “The next day there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples were invited to the celebration. The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, ‘They have no more wine. ‘Dear woman, that’s not our problem,’ Jesus replied. ‘My time has not yet come.’ But his mother told the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.'” (v. 1-5). “When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over” (v. 9). “This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him. After the wedding he went to Capernaum for a few days with his mother, his brothers, and his disciples” (v. 11-12).
What God said to me: Dwayne, good morning. You’re welcome for the gift of snow and being shut-in these past few days. You’re welcome for me meeting with you and for giving you warmth and peace and focus to hear from me. I love you, son. Don’t ever forget that. As importantly, I love the world you live in, many of which do not love me in return. You’re not special or better because you’re warm and well-provided for, with peace and hope in your heart. You’re just loved incredibly by your Father, and you’re forgiven and set free. With that mindset in place, turn your attention back to this passage. It’s not insignificant or accidental that Jesus wasn’t ready to reveal his glory yet. He didn’t have to be coaxed, but he did need to be invited. He was invited by him mom, if not urged by her. She knew in her heart what he was capable of, and although he hadn’t performed any miracles to date, she knew he could easily provide a little wine for their friend’s wedding. His mom wasn’t the only one extending him an invitation; he wouldn’t have been at the wedding had he and his disciples not been invited. Jesus first revealed his glory among acquaintances with whom he’d already started establishing a relationship. Sure, he would go on to do miracles before many who had never met him; yet, he started with those who did. The greatest miracles still happen among those who know him and invite him.
What I said to God: Holy Lord, You are awesome and perfect in all of Your ways. Thank You for Your Word and for the many nuggets of truth there are to mine. I’m not sure I grasp the significance of what I’ve read and written today, but I am trying. Apparently, You’d rather be invited by and know those for whom You do miracles. Not sure how far that application should be made, but the indication is certainly here in John 2 that there’s some truth to the idea. I commit this day to You, inviting You to lead and empower me to do far greater things for others than I could possible do on my own. Perform miracles through me for those who need them most. Guide and protect my family today. And thank You for leading Brian Stone and his family to Valley View. Bless and direct his steps in the coming weeks and months, and help us follow him as he follows You.