Mothers’ Union Devotion Sunday 16th January the Second Sunday Of Epiphany

On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. John 2. 1, 2

The first sign recorded in John’s Gospel took place at a wedding, a real wedding, not a parable as in later stories. A real wedding where Mary, Jesus and his disciples were invited guests. A real wedding where two people made vows to live together as husband and wife ‘till death do us part,’ or whatever words were used at the time. A real wedding which, we imagine was blessed with children although we do not know for certain. What we do know if that their wedding was blessed by the very presence of God in their midst. God may be present at all weddings but at this particular wedding, God was present as a real flesh and blood guest. Not just as a casual observer but as someone who became an integral part of the occasion when he ensured that this important event did not turn into a social nightmare.

As members of Mothers’ Union, we have all promised to support the aims and objectives of upholding Christ’s teaching on the nature of marriage and to promote its wider understanding. Well, what better example can we have than hearing how Jesus used his talents to ensure that this couple had the best start to their married life together, a successful first foray into hosting a party for family and friends. We may not have the talent to turn water into wine, but we all have skills that can help newly married couples negotiate the first days and months of their lives together. Be it practical help, lessons in cooking or household budgeting, advising on DIY skills or mending clothes, relationship advice or most importantly a non-judgemental listening ear. We all have experiences, which can be of such great value to those negotiating the early, middle, or even later years of married life.

Circumstances change, the structure and dynamics of our households has changed but married life is still the basis of a stable family life for millions of couples. Encouraging families to seek and share the love of God within their internal and external relationships is a role that all of us can take on. A family life filled with an awareness of the love of God is a family full of the exquisite layers of taste, aroma, and joy of the very best of wines.

With all my love and prayers

Revd Sandra