Day 91 - The Marriage Feast at Cana

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo’s "The Marriage Feast at Cana"

My parents were married on 3rd June 1950. We could never forget the date because every year my Dad would remind us that the Vicar got the date wrong. ‘He said from this day forth’ my Dad would chuckle ‘so I had to correct him and say, no it’s not, it’s the third!’

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo’s "The Marriage Feast at Cana" is a Baroque masterpiece painted around 1672. It depicts the biblical story from John 2:1–11, where Jesus performs His first miracle — turning water into wine at a wedding celebration. It is a powerful depiction of Christ’s presence at a wedding — a reminder that God blesses and sustains love through every season of life. My parents’ marriage journey lasted almost 65 years, and mirrored the divine faithfulness and grace shown in this biblical celebration.

Murillo’s painting captures a moment of joy and abundance, where Jesus turns water into wine. This act was more than a display of divine power — it was a sign of God’s overflowing grace, showing that love, when rooted in Him, never runs dry.

In a marriage lasting 65 years, this truth was beautifully lived out. Through life's challenges and triumphs, God continuously replenished patience, strength, and unwavering devotion between two souls bound by their vows. Just as Jesus brought abundance to the wedding feast, He filled their years together with faith, laughter, and steadfast love.

Murillo’s painting is richly detailed, capturing a wedding scene full of movement and interaction. The guests, gathered in celebration, remind us that marriage is not just the joining of two people — it is the formation of a life that touches others. Over the years, my parents built a legacy of kindness and unity, extending their love to family, friends, and community. Their faithfulness reflected the biblical call to commitment: "Love never fails."

(1 Corinthians 13:8)

The wedding feast reminds us of the lasting covenant God makes with His people — one marked by care, provision, and eternal promises. In the same way, my parents honoured their vows, walking through life side by side, trusting in God’s plan, and sharing a deep love.

Within the painting, we see the richness of food, celebration, and fellowship — symbolising God’s provision and abundance. The miracle of wine flowing reminds us that even when human efforts fall short, God provides more than we could ask or imagine.

Heavenly Father, bless all marriages and relationships, that they may reflect the unity, patience, and steadfast commitment found in Christ. May we, like the servants at the feast, remain open to Your miracles, and may we always bring forth the goodness and generosity You call us to share.

In times of uncertainty, remind us that You are the source of all provision. As water became wine, so too can faith turn into hope, and hope into peace. Let Your love overflow in our lives, filling every empty space and drawing us ever closer to You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Debbie Wilson