The Secret Shared With Servants

The Secret Shared With Servants

Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” When the jars had been filled to the brim, he said, “Dip some out and take it to the master of ceremonies.” So they followed his instructions. The master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew). –John 2:7-9

Most of the miracles Jesus performed were in response to a specific person’s request. But when I read about him turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana, I’m left wondering, Who was this miracle for? Was it for the bride and bridegroom, who were likely Jesus’ relatives? There’s no evidence they were ever aware of a wine shortage. Was it for the mother of Jesus, who put pressure on him to do something, not wanting her hosts to suffer embarrassment? Mary had waited thirty years for Jesus to publicly demonstrate his authority and power.

Could it have been for the servants? They must have wondered at Jesus’ instructions to fill the huge, heavy pots that had everything to do with the rigorous legalism of hand washing and nothing to do with wine making. What good was that going to do? But if they questioned his instructions, they didn’t hesitate to obey, filling the jars “to the brim” in overflowing obedience.

And what did they get in return? Jesus shared a secret with them—a secret he was not yet ready to share with the party or with the world—the secret of his power to transform what is ordinary into something extravagantly useful to God. That is a secret I want Jesus to share with me, too. Because I am filled with common concerns, empty promises, unanswered questions, and meaningless religious ritual. Because I need an infusion of life and joy and meaning. And I know only Jesus can transform the ordinary water of my days into something brimming with life.

I’m not sure who this miracle was for, but maybe it was for you and me so it would have the same effect on us that it had on Jesus’ disciples that day. “This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was Jesus’ first display of his glory. And his disciples believed in him” (John 2:11). Have you run out of joy, run out of reasons to celebrate life? Offer him your humble obedience and ordinary self, and not only will he share his secrets with you, he will also gloriously transform you.

Transforming Power, I’ve run out of joy. So I come to you, willing to do whatever you tell me to do, wanting to drink in the joyous, full life only you can provide. Show me your miraculous power.

DIGGING DEEPER