Christ's First Sign

“J.S. Bach said, ‘All music should have no other end and aim than the glory of God and the soul's refreshment; where this is not remembered there is no real music but only a devilish hub-bub.’

“He headed his compositions: ‘J.J.’ ‘Jesus Juva’ which means ‘Jesus help me.’  He ended them ‘S.D.G.’ ‘Soli Dei gratia’ which means ‘To God alone the praise.’”  (Kingdom Conflict, J. Stowell, Victor, 1985, p. 77ff.)

As disciples of Christ we are called to give God glory in all things.  This means that every mundane, unexpected, and deeply changing event in the life of a disciple of Christ points in one direction, to His glory.  As we continue to study the Gospel of John we will begin to see how the actions and words of Jesus all point to His own glory.

John 2:1-12 is Christ’s first public sign that He is more than just a carpenter.  At a wedding He is attending the wine has run out and Jesus proceeds to turn water into wine.  What purpose does He have in beginning His public ministry in this way?  What does this passage teach us about being a disciple of Christ?  What can we learn from Jesus and the actions of His disciples and mother?  Where does God’s glory fit into this passage?

May we be prepared to encounter God this week as we study and strive to understand His Word.  And may that Word have a profound affect on our hearts, minds, and lives.

Striving to know Christ and make Him known,

Mark