Quite
a few years ago, I attended the University graduation of one of our Sisters in
Cincinnati, Ohio.There were five
of us in the group and after the ceremony we went out to a local restaurant to
celebrate.It was 6:00 PM on a
busy Saturday night and we were all wearing black and white habits.We made a noticeable entrance.
After
seating us a visibly nervous young waiter began to fill our water glasses.At one point he "lost his
grip" and poured half the pitcher all over the chair and habit of one of
the Sisters.Staff members hurried
around offering towels and apologies.Other diners who had previously been trying not to stare now did so
openly.
After
a few minutes our now visibly relieved waiter returned with a big bottle of
wine which he placed on the table announcing, "Compliments of the manager."In a rather loud voice one of the
Sisters proclaimed to the delight and laughter of all, "Well, I see there's
been another miracle, the water's been changed into wine!"The entire atmosphere in the restaurant
changed as folks relaxed and enjoyed themselves as I suspect happened at Cana
when the best wine was served last!
Although
the exchange between Jesus and His Mother is a secondary theme in the Cana
story, it is Mary who points the way for all those who would be authentic
disciples of her Son."Do
whatever He tells you", she says.Fulfilling this directive will challenge a disciple to experience life and
reality in a new way.Conversion
and transformation of heart and mind will be necessary to adopt the Kingdom
values and lifestyle proclaimed and lived by Jesus.Jesus' story of gathering, healing, including, feeding and
accepting suffering with unconditional love is also the disciple's story to be
lived into.When this change
happens the disciple' life can be as festive and liberating for others as fine
wine.
To
return to my Graduation story- the five of us enjoyed that bottle of
complimentary dinner wine to the very last drop!
Sister
Kathleen Kane
Sisters of St. Mary of Namur . 241 Lafayette Avenue . Buffalo, New York 14213 . (716) 884-8221