The Wedding at Cana of Galilee Miracle
By: Rev. Patricia Warden
Pastor, Nolanville UMC
South District
“Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from 20-30 gallons. Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water,” so they filled them to the brim. “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” John 2:1-11 NIV
The first miracle of Jesus reminds us to constantly be amazed, surprised and startled by the work of God in us. Our church chose to offer Weddings for a Quarter ($.25) during the month of December. This package included the laity decorating in the bride’s choice of color, pre-recorded music, and support for the service. The only requirement was all had to attend 3 premarital sessions with the pastor. Business cards were made and distributed at flea markets, businesses, restaurants and city hall. The church’s focus was to get Jesus into the non-church and financially insecure community. The response was amazing. Their stories of being bruised by churches in their past and their own sense of worth brought about dialogues of healing. In fact, there was not one couple which did not ask for more sessions before their ceremony. The laity saw with new vision the community which they had not seen before. These were individuals which never would have connected in the past. And not one couple donated less than $250 instead of the $.25! And Jesus did His work by taking the water of creation and making it into the best wine for His Kingdom. Amazingly, these couples are reunited not only in the sight of God but active in His Church where they live.
PRAYER
Thank you, Lord, for keeping our eyes and hearts open to the miracles of surprises you can show us. Keep us fit for the Kingdom , and willing to take the church out into the world . Amen
February 19th, 2021 – Waco, TX – 9:00-3:30
REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT:
www.ctcumc.org/ES22-registration