On Sunday, March 2, 2025, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak celebrated the Holy Liturgy at Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Southfield, Michigan, assisted by Rev. Fr. Imad Al-Banna. In his sermon, His Eminence spoke about “The Empty Cup” and gave a powerful message about how only Jesus can truly fill our hearts.
He told the faithful to imagine holding an empty cup, waiting for it to be filled.
He mentioned that many people search in different places for success, relationships, or material things trying to satisfy their thirst, but in the end, the cup remains empty or filled with things that do not truly satisfy. His Eminence reminded everyone that this is exactly what happened at the Wedding in Cana from the Gospel of John (John 2:1-11).
“The wedding was full of joy, but suddenly, the wine ran out. The celebration could have turned into disappointment, but then Jesus stepped in.” His Eminence mentioned how Virgin Mary, saw the need and turned to Him, saying, “They have no wine.” At first, Jesus replied, “My hour has not yet come,” but in His perfect timing, He performed His first miracle and turned the water into wine.
His Eminence reminded everyone of three important lessons we can learn from this moment. First, Jesus fills what is empty. Just as the water jars at the wedding were empty before the miracle, sometimes our lives feel dry and lacking. But when we invite Jesus into our hearts, He fills us with His joy, peace, and purpose. Second, obedience leads to transformation.
The servants obeyed Jesus’ command, even when it didn’t make sense. His Eminence said that when we trust and obey Jesus, He can change our lives in ways we never imagined. Third, God’s blessings are always the best. His Eminence reminded us that when God blesses us, He never gives us leftovers; He gives us the very best
