Notes on the Gospel of John: Chapter 2

One thing that folks sometimes miss when reading scripture is the humor in it. God has a sense of humor. He created humor, for goodness sakes. Now I'll admit that sometimes you do have to look for it, but when you find it, it is well worth it. Let's face it, the circumcision story just cracks me up (see Genesis 17). Question: "Abram, you're 99 years old -- are you sure you heard the Lord right on this deal?"

And here we are. I cannot tell you how many times I've read about Jesus' first miracle and totally missed a really funny part of scripture. Read John 2:1-11. Notice anything potentially humorous?

Look carefully at verses John 2:3-5. We've all been there in one way or another and gotten the "mom" look.

Mary comes to Jesus and says, "They have no more wine." Interpretation? Jesus, I need for you to fix this.

Jesus replies: "Dear woman, why do you involve me? My time has not yet come." Interpretation: I have been called to be the savior for all mankind and it's not time for me to start performing miracles and drawing attention to myself.

Now it is between verses 4 and 5 that Mary gives Jesus the look. The Mother's Look of Knowledge. She knows that Jesus will do what she asks. Why? Because she is His mother. And everyone knows that moms have that special power to make sons and daughters do what they want with but a look.

In verse 5 Mary turns to the servants: "Do whatever he tells you." Interpretation? I know what He said but I'm His mom and I just gave Him the look.

Now this was probably still in the back of His mind when He made a whip out of cords and went yelling and screaming through the Temple clearing out the moneychangers.

Amen.