“In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” …And Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.” Luke 1:39-41, 56
I am deeply moved by the simple and mysterious encounter between Elizabeth and Mary. Two women meet each other and affirm in each other the promise given to them. The humanly impossibly has happened to them. God has come to them to begin the salvation promised through the ages. Through these two women God has decided to change the course of history. Who could ever understand? Who could ever believe it? Who could ever let it happen…For three months Mary and Elizabeth live together and encourage each other to truly accept the motherhood given to them. Mary’s presence makes Elizabeth more fully aware of becoming the mother of the “prophet of the Most High” (Luke 1:76), and Elizabeth’s presence allows Mary to grow in the knowledge of becoming the mother of the “Son of the Most High” (Luke 1:32).
The story of the visitation teaches me the meaning of friendship and community. How can I ever let God’s grace fully work in my life unless I live in a community of people who can affirm it, deepen it, and strengthen it?
Henri J.M. Nouwne, The Road to Daybreak
Action: Write a note of thanks to someone who has served as an encourager to you in your faith.
Prayer: God of encouragement, thank you that we are not alone. We give you thanks for Christian community. May we be encouragers to those who walk in faith and may others encourage us as well. Amen.