Dear Parish Family, Running out of wine. It doesn't matter what century we live in, it's just something we never want to happen. It was the same at the Wedding Feast of Cana. Wine symbolizes abundance, celebration, labor and sacrifice, human creativity, and divine providence. Running short on wine brings the festivities to a halt. When Mary brings this concern to Jesus, she is asking for a miracle only the Lord can provide.
Jesus' response to Mary may at first seem dismissive, but keep in mind that He is having her reflect on her own readiness to let Him begin His public ministry with miracles. We should see Jesus' tenderness and gentleness to Mary's heart here: "Mom, if I do this, there's no going back. It's going to begin a series of events that will lead me to the Cross. I'm ready for this, but I want to make sure you are as well." Mary of course echoes her "Fiat" at the Annunciation ("Let it be done to me according to Thy will") when she tells the servants, "Do whatever He tells you."
When we celebrate Mass, we respond like Mary to the Lord's command to "Do this in memory of Me." The Lord turns bread and wine into His Body and Blood. This mystery is called "transubstantiation" or changing the substance of a thing without changing its physical attributes. This happens in every Sacrament where we are changed at the very core of our being without a change in our physical appearance. We feel it in our soul, and grace is given immeasurably. At every Mass, we get to behold and taste the goodness of God Himself in the Eucharist. There's simply no replacement for what we ask for and receive!
The miraculous transformation of the water into wine at Cana reveals God's generous care for our human needs. We ask and God gives superabundantly. If we don't ask for God's help or if our heart isn't open to receiving from Him, we simply won't see miracles in our life. This Jubilee Year of Hope keeps our hearts focused on asking for God's assistance in all matters, no matter how embarrassing or mundane we feel they may be. Just ask Him. Let Him provide for you in all your needs.