Stories With a Purpose

A miracle of Jesus · Part 1 of 20 · 3 min

The Jars at Cana

There was a wedding in Cana. The family and their guests were happy. Jesus, his mother, and his disciples were there too.

But during the celebration, the grape drink ran out. The people preparing the feast were worried.

Mary noticed and told Jesus. She trusted him. Then she told the servants to do what Jesus asked.

Mary spoke with Jesus to ask for help.
Mary spoke with Jesus to ask for help.

Nearby stood six large stone jars. They held water used for the people's washing customs.

Jesus asked them to fill the jars with water.

The servants carried water until the jars were full. They did not yet know what would happen, but they followed his instruction.

Jesus watches servants fill six stone jars at a wedding.
The servants filled six jars with water.

Then Jesus asked them to draw some out and take it to the person in charge of the feast.

The water had become a fine grape drink.

The man tasted it and was surprised. He did not know where it came from, but the servants knew.

The celebration could continue. Jesus had helped the family without trying to make a grand show.

A servant pours grape drink while a family celebrates in Cana.
Jesus helped the family during their celebration.

This was the beginning of Jesus' signs. His disciples saw something of his glory and trusted him.

Jesus cared about people in important moments and in everyday worries too.

We can learn to notice what someone needs. Perhaps we can help set the table, keep someone company, or offer a kind word.

A child helped set the table.
A child helped set the table.

We cannot do the miracle of Cana, but we can help with what we have. Love shows in small tasks too.

Jesus cares and helps, and we can share his kindness.

Retelling of John 2:1–11.

Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 15. Open the book

Talk about it together

  • Service
  • Trust in God
  • Care

A verse to remember

“I am among you as the One who serves.”

Luke 22:27 · excerptNKJV

  1. What did Jesus ask the servants to do with the six jars?
  2. How might the family feel when the celebration could continue?
  3. What small task could you do to help at a family gathering?

Activity · 2–5 minutes

Thoughtful Helpers

Look together at the place where you usually eat. Without touching hot or fragile things, name three jobs that help prepare a meal. Let a grown-up choose one safe task to do together and thank others for their work.

Try it today: I can notice a small need and offer to help.

More stories with these values

Complete the scene

Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.

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