AS I SEE IT
By Rev. Jim Innes
AT A LIVELY WEDDING in Cana, laughter and music filled the air.
I watched my son mingle with friends, feeling a swell of pride. But then, the unexpected happened: the wine ran out. It would be so very embarrassing for the hosts, who I’ve known for so very long. I felt a sense of urgency. Was this a moment where my son Jesus could shine?
As I approached him, I felt a mix of hope and hesitation. When I explained the situation, he replied, “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.” His words stung, yet I understood him in ways that others couldn’t. I knew that timing was everything, but my heart raced with the knowledge that he had the power to help.
I knew he would come around. So, I turned to the servants and urged them, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’’ I believed that if I set something in motion, he would respond like the good so I knew him to be.
When Jesus asked the servants to fill the jars with water, my heart leapt!’ Could this really be the moment? Would he reveal himself now? I could hardly contain my excitement, knowing something extraordinary was about to unfold, changing everything!
I watched as he instructed the servants to draw some water from the barrels and take it to the chief steward. I could see the astonishment in the steward’s eyes and demeanor. The water had turned to wine! And from the joy on his face, it was clear that it was not just party wine but really, really good wine.
In that instant, I felt not just a mother’s pride but also a deeper connection to his purpose. This wasn’t just about saving a part; it was about a much larger story coming to be.
Miracles reveal the extraordinary within the ordinary: they are hope made real. Yet, in the context of the Cana wedding party, the display of a mother’s faith in her son is more poignant than the water changing into wine. That was the real power at that moment.
Miracles extend beyond their extraordinary results; they embody the faith, love, and relationships that nurture their occurrence. We can do unbelievable feats when someone believes in us and takes the time to connect.
There is another miracle-producing power at work in the story of the wedding. Mary, with her profound concern for the hosts, demonstrated a heartfelt compassion that transcended mere guest behaviour. Mary was concerned about the host feeling like a failure. She wished for them to feel valued, and her loving compassion ignited the remarkable events that followed.
Many people view miracles as signs of supernatural powers, but I believe they stem from our love for one another. This love inspires us to act selflessly for those in need. Empathy, compassion, forgiveness, and generosity are the true catalysts for new life. These qualities ignite remarkable changes in our world!
As I see it, incredible events or miracles are not merely coincidental or supernatural but are fundamentally connected to deep-seated beliefs and trust. It is these very real human actions that give miraculous outcomes everyday significance.
Rev. Jim Innes is the rector of St. John's, Grand Bend with St. Anne's, Port Franks.