Reflecting on John 2:1-12“’Woman, why do you involve me?’ Jesus replied. ‘My hour has not yet come.’” (John 2:4)
We will sit with John 2:1-12 for 3 days, allowing this story to sink into our heart.
Though it seems odd that Jesus called His mom ‘woman’, it was likely common expression.
This story shows His loving respect and submission to her, doig what she asks.
This was not the moment that Jesus expected to begin His public ministry.
And yet He adjusts His expectations to accommodate His mom.
As a parent, I can relate to adapting our plans for those we love.
We are not passive recipients in the Lord’s work around us; we are partners.
God created us to be partners, and Jesus restores us as God’s partners.
We can ask Jesus in His Name, and He will do it (see John 14:13-14).
The key is asking in His Name: to ask for things that honour His Name (John 2:11, 14:13).
Jesus does not always give us what we ask of Him, but sometimes He does.
What I sense from this story is that this is an active partnership.
Like a child learning woodworking with their parent, I am involved.
This changes the outcome; the result is not the same if Jesus did it by Himself.
As I go through my day, I can respond to opportunties and challenges.
What I do matters, and Jesus will include me in working out God’s plans.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, my being involved affects the outcome. I do not always do things the best way, or in the right timing. And yet You accommodate my weakness, and work with me to bring out the best. Thank You for loving us enough to use us as partners in Your kingdom mission.
I can envision the situation: a wedding feast, a rather big problem has come to light. Does Mary panic, get stressed, fret? It doesn’t say any of that. What it does say is that she goes to Jesus. She brought Jesus into the situation. She then simply walks away and trusts that He will respond – “But His Mother told the servants, ‘Do whatever He tells you.” When I see a need or a concern I too should turn to Jesus and bring Him into the situation and blindly trust that He will respond. Why? Because He cares. He loves us that much. If He allows me to see a need or a concern, a ministry opportunity, then He certainly expects me to step into it with Him. He calls each of us to be His hands, His feet, His voice, His love — His active partners! LORD, may I always be willing and able…..
Daily, I walk with the Lord in my living for Jesus. I do not know what the day will bring but I do know that I am known by my words and deeds. May others see Christ in me as I live this day serving Him wherever I am, at home or when I volunteers at the thrift store supporting the local Christian school. Humle service. Being a peacemaker. Working each day in His Kingdom.