Fr. Albertus Herwanta, O.Carm
Without togetherness, where is our future? Togetherness is not just a necessity for us, social human beings, but a source of profound joy. The most intimate togetherness is found in the sacred bond of marriage, a union that brings immense happiness and fulfilment.
Writing about togetherness concerning marriage, Kahlil Gibran, in his book The Prophet, states, "You were born together, and together you shall be forever more. You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days. Ay, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God."
The beginning of a marriage is usually celebrated in a wedding feast. This is very common in many different cultures and societies, and Jewish society is no exception. In Jewish culture, a wedding feast is a joyous occasion that symbolizes the union of two families and the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of the couple.
The Second Sunday in Ordinary Time readings speak about togetherness and marriage. The prophet Isaiah illustrates the relation of God with his people as like that of the bridegroom with his bride. "As a young man marries a virgin, so will your builder marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so will your God rejoice in you" (Isaiah 62:5).
The gospel of John, filled with many symbols, speaks of Mary attending a wedding feast at Cana in Galilee. "Jesus was also invited to the wedding with his disciples" (John 2:2). They celebrated with the guests, who enjoyed the feast by drinking wine, a source of joy.
However, the feast was running out of wine. Knowing this, Mary told Jesus, "They have no wine" (John 2:3). We know what Jesus did afterward. In a miracle, he changed water into wine. Jesus provided six jars of wine containing 180 gallons. Mary and Jesus took part in the wedding party, and they actively got involved in their problem.
The wedding at Cana is not merely a social event. It is a biblical and theological celebration whose messages are relevant. What are the messages? First, Jesus fulfills what the prophet Isaiah proclaims, "As a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so will your God rejoice in you" (Isaiah 62:5). This teaches us about the joy that comes from a loving relationship with God.
Second, we find Mary as a powerful intercessor between Jesus and those in difficulties. Through her intercession, we are reassured that Jesus hears our prayers and acts in accordance with her guidance, strengthening our connection with him.
Third, Jesus' miracle manifests his power to restore our lives, which lose heavenly joy and God's grace because of sin. It is the sign that Jesus completes his mission and points out the Last Supper, where Jesus gives his blood to his disciples (John 2:11).
Lastly, Jesus' restoration of our relationship with God, his Father, is a source of inspiration and motivation. As a result, we are encouraged to rebuild our togetherness with Him and to extend this to our neighbors, especially those in need.
Do we follow their examples as sons and daughters of Mary and Jesus' disciples? Are we sensitive to our community's needs? Are we willing to participate in building our Christian community?