Morning Church: Lecture Notes

Scripture Reading

Context: Wedding at Cana in Galilee.
Key Characters: Jesus, his mother (Mary), and his disciples.
Event: Guests run out of wine.
Mary: Alerts Jesus about the lack of wine.
Jesus: Initially responds, "My hour has not yet come."
Instruction: Mary tells the servants to follow Jesus' instructions.
Miracle: Jesus turns water into wine by having servants fill six stone water jars (20-30 gallons each).
Outcome: The banquet master is impressed by the quality of the wine.
Significance: This was the first of Jesus' signs revealing his glory, leading his disciples to believe in him.

Context: One year since the Supreme Court ruling on abortion rights in the USA.
Christian Stance: Historically, abortion seen as infanticide and destruction of human life.
Emotional Sensitivity: Preacher waited a year to address it due to potential emotional hurt.
Clarification: Doesn't imply political support for Republicans.
Christians' Role: To oppose all forms of human injustice, regardless of political affiliations.
Primary Identity: Christians first, political affiliations secondary.
Mission: Reform the integrity of whichever political party they are part of.
The Call to Action: Seek human justice, oppose racism, and economic injustice regardless of political alignment.

Role of Signs: Manifest God's glory and demonstrate grace and truth.
Human Nature: Humans are sign-creatures, creating and interpreting signs through semiotics.
First of Jesus' Signs: Turning water into wine at Cana indicated his divine nature.
Key Question: What does this sign signify?

Not Obligated: Jesus' actions are not out of obligation but generosity.
Generosity Over Obligation: God's generosity far exceeds any human-imposed sense of obligation.
Example of Entitlement: Feeling God must solve human problems because he created us.
Provision: Jesus often provides more than enough (e.g., bread and wine miracles).

Context of Wedding: Embarrassment due to lack of wine, social necessity of wine in weddings for celebrations.
Jesus' Response: Distances from obligation, portrays it as a free act of generosity.
Volume of Wine: Creates 150 gallons or about 750 bottles of high-quality wine.

Forms of Entitlement: Ideological, situational, prayerful, etc.
Example of Ideological Entitlement: Difficulty accepting beliefs that contradict cultural norms.
Thankfulness as a Practice: Need to consciously choose thankfulness over entitlement.
Implementing Thankfulness: Through praise, worship, and communal activities.

Definition: Jesus' hour refers to his crucifixion and sufferings.
Connection to the Wedding at Cana: Illustrated through purification and abundance.
Symbolism: Jesus' provision points to the ultimate purification and joy in his future kingdom.
Marriage Symbolism: Future wedding feast of Christ celebrating the new creation.

Act of Repentance: Repenting of entitlements and embracing thankfulness in worship.
Communion: Reflecting on Christ's sacrifice and generosity.
Application: Engage in spiritual practices and communal worship to foster thankfulness.