God wants our relationship with Him to be like a healthy marriage—characterized by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control. God has been pursuing us, showing us sacrificial love, and inviting us into intimacy with Him. Is that an accurate description of your relationship with Jesus, your spouse, or the Church?
REVIEW: Jesus Was Invited
- READ: John 2:1-2 "The next day, there was a wedding celebration in the village of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the celebration.”
- DISCUSS: How can you make Jesus an essential part of your everyday life rather than just seeking Him in times of crisis?
REVIEW: Jesus Was Needed
- READ: John 2:3 "The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus’ mother told him, 'They have no more wine.'"
Cultural Note: Eastern culture in Jesus’ day valued hospitality, especially at weddings. Running out of wine was a disaster. Mary recognized the urgency and turned to Jesus. - DISCUSS: How has a difficult situation in your life shown you your need for Jesus? What has helped you grow in faith and trust during these moments?
REVIEW: Jesus Is Able
- READ: John 2:4-10 "'Dear woman, that’s not our problem,' Jesus replied. 'My time has not yet come.' But his mother told the servants, 'Do whatever he tells you.' Standing nearby were six stone water jars, used for Jewish ceremonial washing. Each could hold twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told the servants, 'Fill the jars with water.' When the jars had been filled, he said, 'Now dip some out, and take it to the master of ceremonies.' So the servants followed his instructions. When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over. 'A host always serves the best wine first,' he said. 'Then, when everyone has had a lot to drink, he brings out the less expensive wine. But you have kept the best until now!'"
- DISCUSS: How can you trust God more fully to bring transformation where your efforts have fallen short?
REVIEW: Jesus Is Willing
- READ: Ezekiel 36:26-27 "And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations."
- DISCUSS: How does knowing that Jesus is both willing and able to work in your life encourage you to trust Him more deeply?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
Father, thank You for inviting us into a deep and personal relationship with You. Forgive us for not always seeking You first. Teach us to trust You, invite You in, and rely on Your power. Transform our hearts and lives for Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen.
INVITATION TO RESPOND
Take time this week to reflect on Jesus' invitation. Ask yourself:
- Where do I need to invite Jesus into my life more intentionally?
- How can I deepen my dependence on Him?
- Where do I need transformation that only Jesus can bring?
- How can I establish a regular practice of prayer and surrender to grow in intimacy with Christ?