Scripture: John 2:3 (ESV) – “When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, ‘They have no wine.’”
J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, draws attention to the human and spiritual dynamics at play in this verse. The running out of wine at a wedding feast would have been a serious social embarrassment in Jewish culture, where hospitality was held in high esteem. This moment sets the stage for Jesus’ first miracle, and Mary’s words reveal her faith in His ability to address the situation.
Ryle notes that Mary’s statement, “They have no wine,” is both a simple observation of the need and an implicit appeal for Jesus to act. Though she does not explicitly ask Him for a miracle, her words demonstrate trust in Him to provide a solution. This interaction reveals the close relationship between Jesus and His mother, while also hinting at a transition—Jesus is no longer acting solely as her son but as the Messiah with a divine mission.
The running out of wine also carries a deeper spiritual meaning. Ryle highlights how this moment symbolizes the insufficiency of human resources to meet our deepest needs. Just as the wine at the feast was inadequate, so too are human efforts insufficient to bring true joy, fulfillment, or salvation. This sets the stage for Jesus to reveal His glory by providing not just enough wine, but an abundance of the best wine—pointing to the overflowing grace and provision that comes from Him alone.
This verse challenges us to reflect on our own lives. When we face lack or insufficiency, do we, like Mary, bring our needs to Jesus with trust and expectation? It also reminds us that Jesus cares about the practical concerns of life and is able to transform moments of crisis into opportunities to reveal His power and grace.
Reflection Questions:
- How do you respond when faced with insufficiency or lack in your life?
- Do you bring your needs to Jesus with the same trust and faith that Mary demonstrated?
- How can you recognize God’s hand in providing abundantly in situations where your own resources fall short?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for caring about every detail of our lives, even the moments when we feel we’ve run out of what we need. Teach us to trust You like Mary did, bringing our concerns to You in faith. Help us to see Your hand at work, transforming our lack into abundance through Your grace. May we live with confidence in Your power to provide and sustain us in all circumstances. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 