May 29

This beginning of miracles, did Jesus in Cana of Galilee. John 2:11.

AND this miracle was performed at a marriage. His affectionate and pious mother was present to witness it. It took place very unexpectedly and was performed without any show or ostentation. The circumstances of the case were these. Christ honored a marriage festival at Cana, with his presence. The wine used, which was most likely the pure sweet, unintoxicating juice of the grape, was exhausted. And a further supply was necessary for the demands of the guests. Jesus therefore commanded that the water pots should be filled with water and they were filled to the brim. It was then borne to the governor of the feast, when the miracle was discovered, and the guests partook of this production of Christ's supernatural power. In this miracle, we are called to behold the great condescension and grace of the Son of God. Here we behold the Lord of heaven and earth, in familiar intercourse with his creatures. That intercourse was distinguished by all that was compassionate, and tender, and beneficent, on the part of Jesus. Did not this miracle too, seem symbolical of those enriching blessings which he came to bestow on the souls of men. Men were impoverished, wretched, and ready to perish; he came to present unto them the cup of blessing, the wine of salvation, and "to invite them to buy wine and milk, without money and without price." Let the subject excite in every fainting breast, an ardent longing after the blessings of the gospel of Christ. And in all our social festivities of innocent joy, let Jesus be an invited guest, his presence will sweeten every pleasure, irradiate every scene, and if we honor him, he will not allow us to want for the happiest sources of enjoyment, but always we shall have reason to exclaim, "the best wine is kept until now."