A marriage celebration is a special event for the couple, families and friends. It is an event filled with hope for the future . Vows meant to last a life-time are made. A reception, a banquet celebrates with joy, a future of being together. It is t his imagery that the Scripture uses to describe the relationship between God and his people in general and Jesus and the church in particular. In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah proclaims: ” … as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you.” The Gospel passage is about a wedding feast at Cana. This particular wedding feast is used to call to mind the eternal banquet that we are all called to celebrate. It is not just about a particular couple saved from embarrassment but about humankind whose wine has run out. Jesus transforms the water of our paltry existence and meager efforts into the wine of life with him to be celebrated at the eternal wedding feast. This reality is mirrored in the Eucharist we celebrate this weekend. Bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. The Eucharist is a glimpse of things to come – the best is yet to come. This wonderful Gospel story moves us from Christmas towards the Easter event. Jesus speaks about “the hour” that is to come – his death and resurrection. His blood on the cross becomes the new wine that saves. As he passes from death on the cross to Easter Resurrection, he brings us into the eternal banquet. Yes, the best is yet to come.

©2013 Eugene S. Ostrowski