Jesus' first miracle: turning water into wine. This text is rich in symbolism, which will be explored in this week's reflections.
We should not merely gloss over the words "on the third day". The third day represents God's pattern of creating new life and establishing a covenant with humanity.
It is unclear, and we are not told what day of the week this wedding took place, only that it was the "third day". It is possible it meant that it had been three days since Philip and Nathanael had been recruited. Weddings were typically week-long celebrations due to limits on transportation and the vast distances people travelled. Unlike today, when there is a set date, time, and venue, it was unclear when guests would arrive for the celebrations. Weddings are a new
beginning for a couple as they start their life together. There are new beginnings, too, for the respective families as they welcome a new member. In Scripture, weddings are a common source of symbolism, with God being compared to the bridegroom and his people to the bride.
We can link the phrase to the third day of creation. "On the third day of creation, God created the dry ground, seas, plants and trees." (Gen 1:9-13) The Earth was
being formed into a suitable place for life. On days three to six, God filled the Earth with various species of plants and animals. The Earth became fertile and lush, a paradise where animals and man would be sustained and thrive.
The "third day" can also be seen as a symbol of Jesus' resurrection after three days. It is a new beginning for us all as he transforms us. God resurrected a new life, Jesus, up from the ground, the tomb.
Jesus's resurrection on the third day inaugurates the new creation. (1 Cor 15:20,23; 2 Cor 5:17)
The invitation today is to recall a possible "third day" experience with God. Reflect on a time of new beginnings or life in your spiritual journey. Spend time in conversation with God about this experience or pray for the grace of a new "third day."
Reflections by Gillian Hugo
