WHEN THE SLOGAN DOESN’T FIT: What Jesus' First Miracle Really Means

“Jesus Drank Wine,” the t-shirt stated.

I held it up; the crowd broke out in giggles. When I put it on, it looked like a perfect fit.

But the more I wore the slogan, the more uncomfortable I got.

“Is this t-shirt really me?” I’d ask.

“It’s fine! Don’t overthink it. Didn’t Jesus turn water into wine?” That logic should have shut the matter down, but it didn’t make sense.

Didn’t the Bible also say “don’t get drunk on wine” and “be sober-minded”? We all know what happens to most of us when we set out to have “just one glass.”

We have two glasses, then three. Before we know it, we’re not who we want to be.

As the Living Word, Jesus doesn’t argue with Himself. Nor should we.

Jesus’ first miracle wasn’t about turning water into wine. That was only the plot of the story.

The theme of every miracle Jesus performed was the same—God’s glory.

If Jesus wore a t-shirt, His would have read, “All for the Glory of God.”

As God’s Son, Jesus represented His Father. He did what His Father would do.

As God’s children, we’re His witnesses, too.

I picture Jesus wearing His “All for the Glory of God” t-shirt to the wedding at Cana that day.

While celebrating the newlyweds, He learned that they’d face inevitable humiliation if He didn’t intervene.

God never intended for any person created in His image to experience shame or lose their dignity.

The occasion now called for divine intervention in the festivities.

Jesus tossed a few identical t-shirts to nearby servants. “Put these on,” He said. “You’re officially on a mission from God. You’re Team Glory.”

They may have been a bit confused about their new role, so Mary smoothed out the wrinkles. The task was really quite simple. “Do whatever Jesus tells you.”

“Fill the empty vessels with water.” John 2:7

Everyone else partied on, but “Team Glory” focused on their mission. They put one foot in front of the other, going back to the water source as many times as it took to complete the job.

Finally, “Team Glory” presented the water to the head honcho. They must have been nervous. Would he think they were dippin’ in the sauce, too?

Our hands may shake, but whatever we do in obedience to God is worth the risk.

We needn’t worry. God’s in charge of the results.

Some people may look at us funny. But some will surprise us by saying things like:

“This is the best!”

That’s what Team Glory heard that day.

Nothing in the world tastes like God’s glory. It’s pure. It’s good. It fills our hearts with joy.

It’s not the wine.

When you focus on God’s glory instead, you can expect to have a front-row seat to a miracle, maybe even your own.

Eyes open, hearts change, and everyone sees Jesus in ordinary servants like you and me.

So, if you’re hoping to be more like Jesus, maybe try a new shirt on for size.

“All for the Glory of God” t-shirt.

A simple wardrobe swap could change your life.

“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

(1 Corinthians 10:31, NLT)