Wedding in CanaIhe Atụ

The holiness of daily life

Is it really so important, being able to offer a glass of wine at a party? Maybe it is for ordinary people, but would our dear Lord be concerned about that? The story about the miracle at the wedding in Cana shows us something different: apparently it is important that this is the first miracle we are told about. Apparently, a party with only a glass of water is not a good party. It seems to be so important the couple is able to serve their guests enough wine that Jesus performs a miracle.

Probably, you know the story of Abraham, father of all believers. When three men are visit him and he warmly serves them with what he has. They promise him and his wife Sarah a son, while they both are already aged. Hospitality is one of the most important assignments from the Almighty to mankind. Regularly, the people of Israel are reminded of the time that they were guests, strangers (for example read Leviticus 19:33-34 and Ezekiel 47:21-23). So, they must be able to imagine what it is like being a guest and what it is to get a warm welcome (or even a bad welcome). 

Also in the New Testament, you’ll find similar stories. You read the story of two men leaving Jerusalem after Jesus had been crucified. While they were on their way home to Emmaus a stranger walks alongside them. They invite him for dinner. When this guest breaks the bread and gives a blessing, they finally recognize him: it is the Lord himself.

In the letter to the Hebrews, the believers are urged to: ‘…. Not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.’ (Hebrews 13:2). An angel always leaves a present behind when they are warmly welcomed. But you never know if you have lodged an angel!

You would think that something as ordinary as a glass of wine at a party is not very important to our dear Lord, but on the contrary. He was concerned about the party of this newly-wed couple, about being able to warmly serve others. The holiness is maybe more common than we often imagine.