“Mom, why do the leaves change color?” This question came from our 10-year-old the other day. “Well,” I said, “it’s because in the fall they stop making chlorophyll, which is what gives them their green color. And rather than just making them fall right off the trees, God made it so that first they turn wonderful colors, to make the world a more beautiful place.”
This simple conversation about science and faith reminded me that God didn’t have to make the world so beautiful but chose to out of love for us. All around us, even in difficult times, are signs of the love and faithfulness of God. Theologians call this “general revelation,” meaning signs of the presence of God that are visible to everyone. In Scripture, and in the life of Jesus, we encounter “special revelation,” which are the unique insights we gain through God’s word and the person of Jesus Christ.
General revelation is now on full autumn display around us and in this Sunday’s Gospel reading, John 2:1-11—the Wedding in Cana—we find special revelation of the love and faithfulness of God, embodied in Jesus Christ. This story is the first of the “signs” in John’s Gospel, pointing us to Jesus’ identity and power. While other gospel authors write of “miracles,” John uses the word “signs” to make it clear that the acts of Jesus point to his true identity as God-with-us.
What signs are presence in your life—or in the world around you—that point to the faithfulness of God? Take a moment today to notice and give thanks to the LORD, praying that God will open your eyes more and more to his faithfulness and provision.
One of the many signs I see of God’s faithfulness at PPC comes in the story of this year’s Good Neighbor Team. Our team was featured in the video linked here at the recent Gala Dinner for World Relief WNY. I encourage you to take 5-minutes today to watch this video and be uplifted by the faithfulness of God!
Blessings to you all,
Pastor Laura
Scripture for Sunday: John 2:1-11
Sermon Title: “The Best for the World”
