When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice, and said, "Most blessed are you among women, blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Lk 1:41-42
God is good, all the time.
Friends: Today's gospel relates the visit of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth. When Mary learned about her cousin Elizabeth's conception of John, she was driven by joy at the news and made a quick visit to her. The visit would become the next profound moment the word of the angel Gabriel was confirmed to her in the words of Elizabeth, "Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?"
Luke's description of the two women confirming the marvelous acts of the divinity in each other was remarkably unparalleled and profound. Rarely did the ancient Egyptian and Greek mythologies about how deities influenced the world featured the role of human beings in such divine moments. The knowledge about the conception of a deity by a human being would most certainly be considered both impossible and an afront to the entire religious system.
But in the Judeo-Christian tradition, God chose to involve humans in his movements in the affairs of humanity. Elizabeth's instant outburst of recognition concerning God's marvelous works in Mary was a magnificent inspiration from the Holy Spirit of God, who continues to involve humanity in his saving works till this day. The marvelous and stunning truth and genius of the incarnation is that because God created us in his own image, he continues to involve humanity in his works, which are meant to save us and establish us for an eternal relationship.
Mary became the recipient of the holy hope and courage she had carried to bring to Elizabeth. For Elizbeth reflected to her the truth of the message of the angel- her pregnancy and outburst of joyful acknowledgement of Mary as the mother of the Lord, showed her knowledge of Mary's situation.
We all stand to be recipients of endless gifts of hope and courage if we first bring them to others. Many are yearning for hope and courage, and it is up to all of us to carry them in our hearts and bring to them. Start with your family.
Prayer blessings: Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.