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The old phase “What a Difference a Day Makes” was certainly true in the life of Jesus. One day He is fighting demonic forces for His survival and then totally free to be God’s Son. The future certainly held many negative moments, but enjoying the beauty of life overcame all distractions. Any questions of His life purpose were gone  

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Within a few days, Jesus began the first responsibility of a Jewish teacher-- find followers to share His knowledge of God. Now back home in Galilee, “Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee. He saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the water, for they were fishermen. He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. At once, they left their nets and followed Him (Mark 1:16-18). 

 

Scripture suggests that Andrew was already familiar with Jesus. He had been a disciple of John the Baptist and knew John’s testimony that Jesus was the Messiah. Andrew was ready. Sharing his belief with his brother naturally occurred. Peter, in turn, was willing to see for himself whether Jesus was this promised gift. 

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“When Jesus had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John, his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and went after Him.” (Mark1:19-20).  

A few days later it was party time! “On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Now both Jesus and His disciples were invited.” (John 2:1-2). Weddings in Israel lasted for days. This way, work obligations or farming needs could be completed, and one could still honor the new couple.  

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Marriage was formal process for the Hebrew people. From the moment the couple became engaged, the betrothal period began. First, the man committed by either money or letter to the marriage. The payment for the dowry was fixed, and the obligations for each party were written out, including a vow of purity until the wedding ceremony occurred. This time served as the couple's preparation for home life. 

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The family spent days making certain each part of the celebration was well planned. Being a family of wealth—they had servants—a lavish celebration followed. On the day of the actual marriage, the wedding party led the bride to the home of the husband. As guests arrived, they entered through the courtyard into the main living area consisting of a reception room and a dining room for the meal.  

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The announcement of marriage was spoken, and the formal document was signed. A ceremony of purity followed, and the marriage supper, often lasting for more than a day, began. 

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During the days’ long celebration, “They ran out of wine, and the mother of Jesus said to Him, ‘They have no wine.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.’ His mother said to the servants, ‘Whatever He says to you, do it.’” (John 2:3-5).  Jesus might be the Son of God, but mama was still mama. Jesus was still her son. When mama spoke, Jesus acted. 

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In the courtyard "There set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece.” After promptings by His mother, Jesus retreated to the courtyard and the servants refilled the waterpots. When the host sipped the drink, he proclaimed, “The best wine is always served first. Then after the guests have had plenty, the other wine is served. But you have kept the best till last. This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed His glory. And His disciples believed in Him.” (John 2:6-11). This was: Jesus’ first miracle; Jesus’ first act of caring for His people; Jesus’ first opportunity to be a servant; the first opportunity for His disciples to witness His authority. 

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When the wedding ended, “He went down to Capernaum, Jesus, His mother, His brothers, and His disciples.” (John 2:12).  

Sometimes I need to remind myself that Jesus lived a life filled with the small moments. Many days were spent just hanging out with family and friends. Times like these helped to relieve the moments of confrontation with religious leaders.  

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When we live in the peace and security of a committed walk with Jesus, our walk can be measured by the same moments—long days of life’s enjoyment that overcome the moments of difficulty. Be at peace, my friend. Be at peace.