December 18, 2013 (John 2-4)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told Him, “They have no more wine.” “Dear woman, that’s not our problem,” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.” (John 2:3-4 NLT)
Observation: Mary was probably not asking Jesus to do a miracle; she was simply hoping that her son would help solve this major problem and find some wine. Weddings in Jesus’ day were week-long festivals. Banquets would be prepared for many guests, and the week would be spent celebrating the new life of the married couple. The whole town was invited and it was considered an insult to refuse the invitation. To accommodate many people, careful planning was needed. To run out of wine was more than just an embarrassment; it broke the strong unwritten laws of hospitality. Jesus was about to respond to a heartfelt need. Although Mary did not understand what Jesus was going to do, she trusted Him to do what was right. Those who believe in Jesus but run into situations they cannot understand must continue to trust that He will work things out in the best way.
Application: When we bring our problems to Christ, we may think we know how He should take care of them. We have the battle plan in place within our mind and we expect God to follow our directions perfectly. But often times He has a completely different plan. We must learn to submit to Him and allow Him to deal with our problems as He sees best. Too many times my zeal to “fix” the situation has gotten in the way of His plan. Surrendering my will to Him completely has proven to be the most difficult task I have ever attempted. I have felt abandoned and alone when God didn’t work the way I thought was best and often times I struggle to understand what He is doing. Yet I’m learning that each time I flip out and panic God is only reveling to me my selfish desires to have my own way. Yet when I humbly submit to His plan I experience Him respond with a heartfelt compassion that cannot be denied.
Prayer: Dear Lord, forgive me for not trusting in You like I should. Forgive me for being selfish and demanding my own way. Help me to submit to Your will and experience Your heartfelt compassion. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that You freely give to me each day. Thank You for the provision You have provided for my family. I praise You because of who You are, not just all the great things You do, in Jesus name, Amen!