18 Jan
Sun
2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)
Is. 62:1-5
Ps. 96: 1-3, 7-10
1 Cor. 12:4-11
Jn. 2:1-12
(Ps Wk II)
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The first of the "signs" given by Jesus was at Cana in Galilee. That's how St John's gospel describes what we usually call the 'miracle' of Jesus changing water into wine. Other 'signs' in the same gospel include things that Jesus said. Each of these 'signs' points to the deeper meaning of what Jesus said and did, a significance that wasn't or couldn't be perceived at the time but had to wait until the Holy Spirit was sent. So the verse continues: "He revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him". It's all about faith and the revealing of Christ's glory. In the old liturgy of the church, the celebration of Epiphany wasn't just about the Wise Men coming to see Jesus: the festival included the Baptism of Jesus and this water/wine miracle at Cana. In all three, Jesus is revealed as God among us. As we read or listen to today's gospel, may the light of the Holy Spirit help our faith to read more deeply into the words and the events they describe, beyond the details of a crisis at a wedding banquet. The favour that Jesus did, at His mother's request, saved the face of a bridegroom. But His "hour had not yet come", so the full meaning of what He did wasn't immediately seen or understood. May my prayer today give me insight into the gospel message, and transform my heart's love for Jesus and for His people, like He transformed the water at Cana.



"The Lord has prepared a feast for me: given wine in plenty for me to drink: praised be the Lord."

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That all men and women may recognise that they are members of God's one family and end wars, injustice and discrimination among themselves.
Elaboration

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