“Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.”
Psalm 96:3
Readings
Isaiah 62:1-5
I Corinthians 12:4-11
John 2:1-11
Reflection
by Sister Judith Bloxham, OSB
It is interesting that, on this Second Sunday of Ordinary Time, the scripture readings focus on great celebration and joy in regard to God’s love and compassion for His people. The importance of our meals and our relationships stand out for me.
In the first reading for this Sunday, the prophet Isaiah focuses on the image of the joyful bridegroom and the wedding feast. “…you shall be called by a new name… you shall be called ‘My Delight’ and your land ‘Espoused’.” The scriptural passage concludes with “…as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you.” God joyfully reaches out to His people as the bridegroom, rejoicing in them all (even when they are not perfect.).
St. Paul calls us to rejoice, in the Holy Spirit who provides so many different forms of spiritual gifts, that of wisdom, knowledge and faith. In the Spirit we encounter gifts of healing, wonderful deeds, discernment of spirits and so many other spiritual gifts for the Body of Christ. Do we take the time and spiritual seeking to recognize these gifts in our families and communities?
In the Gospel, John paints the lovely portrait of the wedding feast in Cana, which also reminds us of the importance of love and compassion for others. Mary, the mother of Jesus, shows her concern and compassion for the newlywed couple at their wedding banquet. She discerns that they have no wine for their guests. Perhaps they cannot afford it. Jesus comes to the rescue and provides in abundance the best wine possible. John notes that Jesus did this at the beginning of his signs for others. This was an instance of the revelation of his glory and the apostles began to believe in him.
In what ways can we reveal the presence of the Lord when we provide assistance to those who are needy and poor, not only materially, but also in mind and spirit?
From the Rule of St. Benedict
“This, then, is the good zeal which(we) must foster with fervent love: (We) should each try to be the first to show respect to the other, supporting with the greatest patience one another’s weaknesses of body or behavior, and earnestly competing in obedience to one another… Let (us) prefer nothing whatever to Christ, and may he bring us all together to everlasting life.” Chapter 72, Verse 3-6 & 11
Gospel Acclamation
“God has called us through the Gospel,
to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Cf. II Thessalonians 2:14