In today’s Gospel reading we see the first
public miracle or sign which Jesus did. The Lord Jesus blessed a young couple
and brought joy to their wedding party. First by his presence, and second by
saving them from embarrassment when the wine ran out. Changing water into wine
was a remarkable act of kindness; but giving the best to last was unnecessary
and unheard of. In the Old Testament wine is seen as both a gift and blessing
of God (Deuteronomy 7:13; Proverbs 3:10, Psalm 105:). That Jesus would
miraculously produce 120 gallons of the best wine (many times more than needed)
shows the superabundance of the blessings which he came to offer.
This miracle signifies the "new rich
wine" of the Gospel and it points to the “wine of the new covenant” and
the “bread of life” which Jesus provides for his disciples in the Lord’s Supper
or Eucharist. It also points to the Messianic banquet which Jesus will provide
at the end of the age when he comes again in his glory. The miracles of Jesus
demonstrate the power of God's love and mercy for his people. God's kindness
knows no limits. And the ultimate expression of his love is revealed in the
person of his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. He became flesh for our sake, and he
died for our redemption, and he rose that we, too, might be raised up and
glorified with him.
Many thanks to all those who came to help
dismantle the Christmas decorations. Many hands made light work to put
everything back in order.
Please remember our Annual Pasta Dinner on
February 9th. Tickets are available in the vestibule after all
Masses and from the parish office during the week. I look forward to seeing you
there.
I hope you will all have a good week!
Fr. Phil
