John 2:11
This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory; and his disciples believed in him.
Everybody has heard of a "fairytale wedding." J.R.R. Tolkien said that the essence of a great fairy tale was "eucatastrophe" or "good catastrophe". Such tales begin and end in joy, however dark they may get in between. And the joy which ends the story is always better than the joy which begin it–though that joy always comes in the form of an unexpected twist ending. The Wedding at Cana shows this beautiful quality. The story of Christ begin with a joyous wedding in the gospel of John. It goes on to "run out of wine" when Christ's luck (apparently) runs out and he fails to elude his enemies, disappear miraculously from his trial, or call down twelve legions of angels. People are still half-expecting some last minute Cavalry charge from heaven to save him even as he hangs on the Cross ("If you are the Son of God, come down!") But no there is no wine left at all in Christ's life. He has bled it all away… till the dawn of the third day when the water of death is turned into the wine of life and he quite literally lives happily ever after.
By Mark Shea
Mark P. Shea is a Catholic author, blogger, and speaker.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO OUR READERS
Catholic Exchange is free—but it is not free to produce. Advertising revenue covers only a fraction of the cost to generate reliably Catholic commentary and news, inspiring videos, a selection of the best Catholic blogs, and daily meditations and prayers.
To give us the strength and stability we need, Catholic Exchange is turning to you—our loyal reader—and asking you to become a monthly contributor.
Whether you can give $5 or $25, $50 or $100 each month, please leave something behind so we can continue—and strengthen—this important apostolate.
We are deeply grateful for one-time gifts, but we encourage you to choose “Monthly” on the drop-down menu. Your support will ensure that Catholic Exchange will be here during this most critical moment for the Church and America.
