Daily Devotional for December 29

 

December 29                                                       John 2:1-11

Jesus' first miracle, at the wedding in Cana, sets the tone for
his entire ministry and sums up what is to come in the Gospels.

Jesus understands and empathizes with our troubles, just as
he understood the embarrassment of his host when the wine
started to run out. Without great fanfare, he simply supplies
what we need, enriching us in the process (the steward thought
the host had saved the best for last, when in fact it was Jesus
who provided the best). Imagine the relief the host felt after
Jesus provided the wine; that is the kind of relief that Jesus
always gives us.

Jesus was the kind of person who was able to enjoy himself
and others at community celebrations. He had been invited
to this party, he fit in, he wasn't out of his element, and he
didn't make others feel uncomfortable. In other words, Jesus
and his followers were not dour religious figures, frowning
censoriously, but were able to enjoy life and share in the
happiness of others.

Jesus allowed the servants to be co-workers with him. To this
day Christ does not keep the healing, helping, and saving of
the world in Christ's own hands, but offers a share in ministry
to all who will join in.

Like Mary, we can be confident that Jesus will be thoughtful,
dependable, and helpful. She knows, as we do, that whatever
the need, Jesus can do something to help.

     Sovereign Jesus, Gracious Guest, be ever present
       at our celebrations, join our parties, be with us in
            our joy, for you provide all we need. Amen.

​

From The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle

Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.C.