Jesus as Sommelier?

On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there,

John 2:1

and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”

John 2:9-10

Once more he visited Cana in Galilee, where he had turned the water into wine. And there was a certain royal official whose son lay sick at Capernaum.

John 4:46

A sommelier, or wine steward, is a trained and knowledgeable wine professional, normally working in fine restaurants who specializes in all aspects of wine service as well as wine and food pairing.

Wikikpedia

I am an amateur home brewer. I have been brewing beer as a hobby for the last 4 or 5 years, and it is an enjoyable hobby. I have always had an interest in chemistry, and the process of brewing beer allows me to take a small peek into the world of chemical reactions.

It got me thinking the other day about Jesus when he performed the miracle of turning water into wine. I mean, I can turn water into beer, but there is no miracle involved. Actually, the miracle might be that my beer is actually drinkable!

Jesus turned water into wine by a divine miracle, because his dear mother had requested his help. This story reminded me that Jesus was entirely human, as well as entirely the Son of God. He was subject to human impulses, empathy, devotion to his mother, and even the desire to make sure that his host at the wedding feast was not embarrassed. Indeed, the host would have been humiliated if he ran out of wine for his guests!

When Jesus performed this miracle, the wine he produced was of excellent quality. He may be considered the best sommelier of the first century! Jeus cared for people and he became known later as “the one who turned water into wine”, prompting a centurion to approach him for help.

Jesus knew that as we need help, he is available to comfort and encourage, as well as to heal. He also told his disciples essentially, “Guys, people will know that you are the real deal if they know they can count on you in their time of need!”

So, there it is. Jesus as first century sommelier, using his gifts to teach and help us in our time of need. We should go and do likewise.

Prayer: Lord, help us to be available for the needs of others, Amen.