Towards the Wedding Feast
“It will be said on that day, ‘Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, so that He might save us.””
The Marriage Feast at Cana (ca. 1497) beautifully captures the first miracle of Christ, and its abundant, festive, and miraculous character resonate with the beautiful themes that pervade this week's Scripture lessons.
Though from the Netherlands, Juan de Flandes adapts his Flemish style to meet the needs of his patron, Queen Isabella of Castile in Spain. It's a small image: the work was one of forty-seven panels commissioned to depict the lives of Christ and the Virgin Mary, likely intended for a cabinet in the queen's palace. De Flandes utilizes the naturalism and rich details of the Flemish style, while simplifying the composition to focus attention on the holy figures and their actions.
In the center left of the image, we see Christ and the Virgin Mary, their postures and gazes guiding our eye to the miraculous flow of wine. The bride and groom likely represent Princess Margaret of Austria and Prince Juan, linking the biblical story to the Spanish court. De Flandes masterfully draws the viewer into the intimate gathering, allowing us to witness the miracle unfold. The clear geometry, harmonious arrangement, and elegant restraint create an atmosphere of tranquil devotion. The gaze of Mary, the position of Christ's hand, the flow of the water -- together, these create a palpable feel, as though the miracle is just about to take place ... we can practically taste it. The feasting table -- ironically -- is empty, but its clean presence draws attention to this Presence and this Miracle, what we are invited to feast on spiritually. Indeed, it evokes the visuals of the Altar -- which for reverence sake is always set in simplicity -- whence we regularly receive our supersubtantial bread.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!
— Philippians 4:4
Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost
Texts for This Week
Prayer
O God, our refuge and strength, true source of all godliness: Graciously hear the devout prayers of your Church, and grant that those things which we ask faithfully, we may obtain effectually; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
Rejoice in the Lord Alway
The celebratory spirit of Purcell's beloved Bell Anthem beautifully echoes the joyful themes of this week's scripture passages. The opening line establishing the theme, "Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say rejoice!" quotes Paul's letter to the Philippians in an evocative older English, calling to mind that “always” can mean not only “at all times,” but also, “in every way.” Paul encourages us to rejoice always in Christ, taking anxieties to God through prayerful thanksgiving. The anthem gives musical form to this call, repeating the phrase as both instruction and as praise.
The full chorus and orchestra create a jubilant sound, even as the harmonies go through moments of tension and resolution. This musical journey mirrors the complex joy described in the texts. We walk through dark valleys, but God wipes away every tear. Outcasts are welcomed into the kingdom and the Lord prepares a feast. Amidst trials, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life with Christ. Purcell's anthem gives voice to this complicated joy.
Purcell's soaring melodies and driving rhythms draw us to rejoicing in view of God's faithfulness and salvation. The music lifts the listener to the heavens, transporting us to the heavenly banquet described in Isaiah and Matthew's Gospel. Through rich harmonies and variations on the theme, Purcell leads us on a joyful journey of faith. His anthem gives embodiment to the hope and praise at the heart of this Sunday's scriptures.
From Gregory the Great Homily on the Parable of the Wedding Feast
A brother came to our monastery pursuing religious life. His worldly brother tagged along out of affection. Though irreligious, we tolerated him for his brother's sake. When plague struck, he fell ill. As death neared, he cried, “A dragon waits to devour me! Your prayers alone hold him back!”
Prostrate, we begged God for mercy. Suddenly the man revived, rejoicing, “The dragon has fled! Your prayers drove him away. Now I am ready to leave worldliness and follow Christ!” Despite his past defiance, this sinner embraced God at the eleventh hour.
We cannot know the hidden mysteries of another’s heart. While some fall from grace, even hardened souls may yet turn toward the light. We must neither judge nor presume, but leave all to God’s grace. Where sin abounds, divine love abounds all the more. The Lord patiently draws all who struggle to Himself.
