Our Extravagant Bridegroom

Weddings of the famous have become known for their extravagance. Syndicated radio host Diane Rehm once recalled how she and her husband had gone to two weddings over a few months, each costing over twenty thousand dollars, and neither marriage lasted a year. It seems that as expenses have increased, longevity has decreased. Even so, our faith holds up one marriage whose extravagance is located in its fidelity: Christ’s love for his bride, the church. 

One of the less remembered titles Jesus applies to himself in the Gospels is the bridegroom. When asked why his disciples do not fast, he replies that as long as the bridegroom is present, there is no fasting. It is a time for celebration. Jesus remains the bridegroom the Father sent to woo God’s people. The generous and extravagant abundance of the bridegroom comes across in today’s miracle at Cana. Even though he has said his hour—that is, the hour when he reveals the extravagant love of God—has not yet come, still Jesus yields to his mother’s request to remedy the embarrassment of a wedding without wine. 

The moral: when the Bridegroom comes, there will be endless joy. Ordinary  Time begins with this marvelous story, proclaiming that God’s generosity cannot be overestimated. We see it in the gifts St. Paul mentions in his letter to the fractious Corinthians, gifts that continue to be given. Such abundance and variety of gifts reflect God’s extravagant love for us. Such gifts are given for the good of all. 

Consider/Discuss

• What does the image of Jesus the Bridegroom say about your relationship with him? 
• What gifts of a generous God do you see in your own life and in those around you? 

Responding to the Word

Lord Jesus, you remain the bridegroom come to reveal your Father’s extravagant love. In union with many of the saints, we dare to call you the spouse of our souls. May we revel in your passionate love shown on the cross, and reveal that love to those most in need of it.