Good morning. Today is Friday, July 17th!

🥳 Congratulations on starting today with God, and thank you for letting us be a part of it.

— John 2:11

Most people know Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine.

But the story behind it is even more fascinating than the miracle itself.

It begins at a wedding in Cana. Jesus, His mother Mary, and His disciples had all been invited. Then, in the middle of the celebration, the wine ran out.

Today, that might not seem like a big deal. 

But in first-century Jewish culture, weddings often lasted several days, and the bridegroom’s family was expected to provide for every guest. Running out of wine would have brought public embarrassment and shame.

Mary noticed the problem and quietly told Jesus,

“They have no wine.” (John 2:3, KJV)

She didn’t tell Him what to do. She simply placed the need before Him.

Jesus replied,

“Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.” (John 2:4, KJV)

At first, that almost sounds like a refusal. But Jesus never says no. “Woman” was a respectful way to address her, and “mine hour is not yet come” reminded Mary that His ministry would happen according to the Father’s timing, not anyone else’s.

Mary understood. She didn’t argue. She simply told the servants,

“Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.” (John 2:5, KJV)

Those are the last recorded words Mary speaks in Scripture, and they point people straight to Jesus.

Jesus told the servants to fill six large stone waterpots with water “to the brim” (John 2:7, KJV). Then He said, “Draw out now” (John 2:8, KJV). Somewhere between filling the jars and pouring the cup, the water had become wine.

Most of the guests never even knew a miracle had happened. Jesus quietly spared a family from shame without drawing attention to Himself.

Then John tells us why this miracle mattered:

“This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.” (John 2:11, KJV)

That’s the Bible’s answer. 

Jesus’ first miracle revealed His glory, strengthened His disciples’ faith, and showed that the promised Messiah had arrived.

And He chose to reveal Himself not through a public spectacle, but through a quiet act of compassion.

When you’re not sure how to pray, A.C.T.S. gives you a simple path to follow: Adore, Confess, Thank, and Ask.

Adoration: Thank You for revealing Your glory through Jesus.

Confession: Forgive me for doubting Your timing.

Thanksgiving: Thank You for caring about every part of my life.

Supplication: Help me trust You like Mary did, obey Your Word, and grow in faith each day.

In Jesus’ name, Amen

“Idols” by Stephen Stanley

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See you tomorrow,

Zach | Start With God