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Jesus an Example in Social Relationships, July 1
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And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and
the mother of Jesus was there: and both Jesus was called, and his
disciples, to the marriage.
John 2:1, 2
There was to be a marriage in Cana of Galilee. The parties were
relatives of Joseph and Mary. Christ knew of this family gathering, and
that many influential persons would be brought together there, so, in
company with his newly made disciples, He made His way to Cana.
As soon as it was known that Jesus had come to the place, a special
invitation was sent to Him and His friends....
He had joined the mixed assembly of a festal gathering, and, while
no shadow of worldly levity marred His conduct, He had sanctioned the
social gathering with His presence.
Here is a lesson for the disciples of Christ through all time, not to
exclude themselves from society, renouncing all social communion and
seeking a strict seclusion from their fellow beings. In order to reach all
classes, we must meet them where they are; for they will seldom seek us
of their own accord. Not alone from the pulpit are the hearts of men and
women touched by divine truth. Christ awakened their interest by going
among them as one who desired their good. He sought them at their
daily avocations and manifested an unfeigned interest in their temporal
affairs. He carried His instructions into the household of the people,
bringing whole families in their own homes under the influence of His
divine presence....
Jesus rebuked intemperance, self-indulgence, and folly; yet He was
social in His nature. He accepted invitations to dine with the learned and
noble, as well as the poor and afflicted.... He gave no license to scenes
of dissipation and revelry, yet innocent happiness was pleasing to Him.
A Jewish marriage was a solemn and impressive occasion, the pleasure
and joy of which were not displeasing to the Son of man.
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