Tasting the Miracles
When Jesus turned water into wine at Cana, there was more going on than meets the eye. A closer look at John 2 reveals that the clay pots that Jesus had the servants fill with water were not wine pots—they were water purification pots. These were the vessels that contained the water to wash hands, tables, and utensils, and even one’s feet. Jesus not only turned water into wine, he redeemed ordinary water pots used for cleansing, into vessels of celebration.
It should also be noted that neither the bridegroom nor the master of the feast knew about the miracle. Only the servants experienced the miracle. The wedding party tasted the wine, but the servants tasted of the miracle.
This is such a great picture of life. There are some who are tasting of the miracles behind the scenes and many who don’t have a clue as to what is happening in the kingdom of God. They are paralyzed in their faith as they cling to the American way of life. They are holding on to their retirements, their homes, and their security. As I read the Scriptures, I hear Jesus say, “Come and follow me.” I hear, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.”
Is it that simple? Absolutely not! Following Jesus isn’t always easy and often requires one to go the extra mile. As I examine the miracle of turning water into wine it needs to be noted that the vessels hold approximately 30 gallons of water each. That’s six vessels for a total of 180 gallons!
Think about it. The wine runs out and Mary tells the servants to do whatever Jesus says. Somehow she knew that Jesus would do something. But how did she know that the miracle would require the assistance of the servants? And why should they listen to her? Maybe the greater miracle isn’t turning the water into wine but that the servants were willing to comply with filling 180 gallons of water! Did you ever consider where they got the water from?
Weddings in the ancient near east were seven to fourteen days long. This was now the third day. The vessels would have been empty since they would have already used the water for purification purposes. To fill 180 gallons would have required the servants to fetch the water from the nearby well or from the household cistern. Regardless of where they obtained the water, the fact that they had to pour 180 gallons and fill the water to the brim was no easy task!
And that speaks volumes! It was no easy task and only the servants participated in the miracle. If you want to be involved in the work of the kingdom of God, it sometimes requires doing what doesn’t come easy. Those who are willing to do the hard things will taste of the miracles behind the scenes.
