Here we see two different stories of Jesus. It is not far off to say that we see almost opposite behaviors in the course of a single chapter! Both reactions reveal aspects of Jesus and what He has come to accomplish.
In humility and obedience to Mary, we see Jesus recognize the needs of others and display His glory in the ability to provide for others and care for them. With righteous anger and holy conviction Jesus recognizes the needs of others to be corrected and removed from their profaning of the temple! He does not leave mankind in their need and sin but indeed has come to rescue us from rebellion.
As we approach the Gospel according to John, this chapter is a powerful reminder that often we are limited when we think of Christ. Do we relish in a Jesus who has come to drive out others? Do we forget that Jesus Himself honored His mother, even when she didn’t seem to recognize the bigger picture?
When we approach the incredible task of reading through this account of Jesus’ life and ministry, let us be humble as we meet with God’s Word and see who is this promised Messiah!
“God, I pray for us as we dwell on this chapter that we never lose sight of the fact that Jesus is both our intimate hope and all-powerful Lord! How great is it to have a God who cares for us, fights for us, changes nature for us, and does not let us remain in our own foolishness? Empower and encourage us as we earnestly pursue to remain in Your Word.”
Reflection Questions:
When you think of Jesus, what image comes to mind?
What would it have been like to have Jesus at your wedding?
How would Jesus react to a Sunday morning at Swift Creek?
As I examine my heart, is there a need for encouragement from Christ like His miracle? Is there a need for rebuke or conviction like His cleansing of the temple?
How could I be a part of showing others Jesus, who is both gentle and righteous?