Hello, I’m Daniel Westfall on the channel “Pray With Me”.
Why would John put stories of winemaking and wrecking side by side? That’s what he did, in chapter two of his gospel.
The wine ran out at a wedding so Jesus turned ordinary water into fine wine to keep the celebration going.
Next, John flips to a story about merchants selling sacrifice-animals and providing foreign exchange in the temple. Jesus was offended, so he made a whip and drove away the animals. He knocked over the money changers’ tables, coins flying, tempers rising. A regular wrecking party.
Here’s my take on John’s stories.
At an ordinary wedding, Jesus did something extraordinary, something that hinted he was more than just an average rabbi wandering backwater Galilee. John says the winemaking showed his glory. Jesus, the carpenter with callused hands and unkempt hair. But unexpectedly, the love and power of God shines through. That’s his glory. quietly using God’s power to solve human problems.
Psalm 104 says God gives wine to gladden human hearts (v 15). At the wedding celebration, Jesus gave the gift of gladness.
But it’s not just gladness Jesus brings. What about his wrecking ball encounter at the temple? He couldn’t tolerate money-grubbing incursions into God’s holy place. Nor would he tolerate noise where God ordained quiet, or business where God ordained worship.
That’s John’s picture of Jesus. Meek and mild, a gladdener of hearts. Strong and wild, a wrecker of false worship. Which Jesus will meet you today?
Let’s pray.
O Jesus, too often we are like those money changers and animal sellers. Too often our religion is a business. Too often we leave church on Sunday and serve our own interests all week.
Our reverence for you has devolved into tolerance, our worship is full of empty words, our prayers vain repetition.
Restore us to true spirituality, to communion with you, to a love of your church and your people. Help us make your house a house of prayer. Teach our hearts to touch your heart. Help us use our lives to show your praise.
O Jesus, make us glad with new wine. Feed us daily with your bread. Illuminate our souls with your light. Refresh our journey with your presence.
Amen.
I’m Daniel, on the channel “Pray with Me”.
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