Dear Friends of Longview Chapel,
As we think about John 2:1-11, Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding, does it bring to mind some other kinds of celebrations you have enjoyed? Maybe birthdays, graduations, retirements, house warmings, new buildings anniversaries, or surprise events of all kinds come to mind. One of the things about many of these events is that whatever happens, somehow the good and the joy rise up.
The photographer at our wedding was a lovely woman named Kay. She was experienced and calm – both great things. There were a lot of odd things that happened that day. Bill was supposed to help set up the Great Hall at St. Paul School of Theology, and he ended up hunting down members of his very large family at various parts of the Kansas City airport. Yes, that was before cell phones. I was literally in a Schlagle t-shirt and shorts one hour before photos began. My sister lost track of time and did not get back from a quick shopping trip. My mom and Bill’s mom were both having stomach issues. We forgot to get something to cut the cake. A huge storm rolled in during the wedding with claps of thunder. I could go on, but the point is this, when all was said and done, what we both held onto was the love shared not just by us, but by so many people who came to worship with us. The joy of those dancing and singing and talking and hugging still touches my heart.
When we went to view pictures at the photographer’s home, she looked at us both and said something like, “I’ve been to a lot of weddings, but the love in that place was so real it made me cry.” Of course, that brought tears to our eyes too.
Taking time to celebrate is in some ways is a faith statement. We believe that the God’s Presence, even in the midst of struggle, is worth celebrating. We believe that love and forgiveness and grace are worth celebrating too. I am thankful John chose to share this first miracle of Jesus. It reminds me that he, too, took time to celebrate.
How will we recognize and celebrate God and God’s gifts to us this week?
Celebrating the Good News with You,
Pastor Donna