Mary as stage mother. Not exactly the scenario we’re expecting for Jesus’ first semi-public miracle. Semi-public, because the only ones who really know what’s going on are the servants. The steward is clueless, the bridegroom plays along, and the party guests–we presume–just go on partying. Hardly a magical first-cotillion moment for the Savior of all humankind.

And yet there is something reassuringly familiar about the scene–the pushy mother, the reluctant son, the usual celebration of a marriage. It’s as if the writer knew what we all know: Life is what happens between the weddings and the funerals.

Now, after a dazzling entry into epiphany–traveling stars and exotic kings, doves descending out of heaven–Jesus musters up a miracle of the nitty gritty and buys everyone another round.

I’m wondering what to make of a Savior who, in the first revelation of his power over the stuff of this world, (mis)appropriates the vessels of ritual purification to make sure the party goes on. Under his influence, the means of obedience to the Law become vessels for spirits.

And in every good and true story there’s the dark side: a foreshadowing. Another gathering round the table. Another cup. Another miracle to ensure the feast goes on. 

Taste the Living Water @ www.trinityspokane.org