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. Then I put it on; it looked like a perfect fit.

But the more I wore it, the more uncomfortable it 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.”

Jesus only did what God told Him to. Because as God’s Son, He represented His Father.

His obedience showed the world a clear picture of Who God is.

So 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.

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

So, He divinely interrupted the ordinary events of the day with a miracle.

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

Mary smoothed out the wrinkles. “Do whatever Jesus tells you.”

Jesus’ instructions were simple and clear.

“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 source as many times as it took to complete the job.

Finally, “Team Glory” presented the water to the head honcho.

Our hands may shake, but whatever we do for God’s glory will succeed.

“This is the best!”

Nothing in the world tastes like God’s glory. It’s a taste of pure goodness — and God’s goodness is what fills our hearts with joy.

It’s not the wine.

When you focus on the glory of God, 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 start with a simple wardrobe change?

“All for the Glory of God” t-shirt.

Change your wardrobe; He’ll change your heart one obedient step at a time.

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

(1 Corinthians 10:31, NLT)