Sunday’s readings speak of God’s love and compassion. A marriage theme runs through them, illustrating the essence of God’s caring — the persistence with which God woos us and the richness of God’s gifts to us.
The first reading affirms God’s steadfast commitment. We are not destined to be forsaken or desolate, but to be a source of delight to God, who calls us to intimate union. God will not rest until our hearts are won over. Isaiah tells us that “as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so shall your God rejoice in you.”
Jesus’ first miracle in John’s Gospel occurs at a wedding in Cana. Jesus, his disciples, and his mother are enjoying the festivities when Mary quietly tells Jesus, “They have no wine.” Jesus’ response seems curt: “Woman, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come.”
Unperturbed, Mary tells the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Jesus cannot ignore his mother’s request! Unknown to all but the servants who fill huge stone jars at his bidding, Jesus transforms water into the finest wine, saving face for the bridegroom.
Today, the power of Mary’s intercession is ours for the asking. Jesus’ love and generosity are boundless. He gives his entire being to us in the eucharistic bread and wine, nourishing us abundantly. How blessed we are!
—Barbara d’Artois
Isaiah 62:1–5
Psalm 96:1–2, 2–3, 7–8, 9–10
1 Corinthians 12:4–11
John 2:1–11