The Gospel passage of Luke 1:39–45 brings us to the
heart of Advent joy and anticipation of the Feast of Nativity of Child Jesus. In this scene, Mary, carrying Jesus in
her womb, hastens to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who is also expecting a
miraculous child. The meeting is a moment of profound spiritual recognition,
joy, and blessing, reminding us of the wonder and meaning of this holy season.
Mary’s Journey:
Love in Action
Mary's journey to the hill country was no small feat
for a young woman newly pregnant. Yet, filled with the Holy Spirit and the
knowledge of her divine calling, she sets out “with haste” to serve Elizabeth.
Her journey reflects the essence of Advent: love in action. As we prepare for
Christmas, we are reminded that Advent is not only about waiting but about
moving toward others in love and service, especially those who need our
support, comfort, or companionship.
- Advent Question: Who in our lives might need a visit, a word of
encouragement, or an act of kindness as Christmas draws near?
Elizabeth’s Joy:
Recognition of Grace
When Mary arrives, Elizabeth’s response is one of
overwhelming joy. Her greeting is not only warm but filled with the prophetic
recognition of Mary’s unique role in salvation history: “Blessed are you among
women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” Elizabeth’s words remind us to
look with faith and gratitude at the blessings in our lives. Her response also
teaches us to recognize God’s grace in others and to celebrate it.
- Advent Invitation: Can we, like Elizabeth, open our hearts to see
and affirm God’s work in the lives of those around us?
3The Unborn John: Leaping
for Joy
In a moment that transcends words, the unborn John the
Baptist leaps for joy in Elizabeth’s womb at the presence of the unborn Christ.
This silent yet profound action is a reminder that true joy comes from
encountering Jesus. In this season, amid the busyness of preparations, we are
invited to rediscover the quiet but deep joy of God-with-us.
- Advent Reflection: How can we foster a sense of awe and gratitude
for Jesus' presence in our daily lives this Advent?
Blessed Is She Who Believed
Elizabeth's final words to Mary, “Blessed is she who
believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the
Lord,” affirm the power of faith. Mary’s faith in God’s promise becomes a model
for us. Amid uncertainty and challenges, she trusted in God’s plan and said
"yes." This Advent, we are called to deepen our faith and trust in
God’s promises for our lives.
- Advent Challenge: How can we embrace Mary’s example of faith and
trust as we prepare our hearts for Christ this Christmas?
The meeting of Mary and Elizabeth is more than a joyful
family reunion; it is a celebration of God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment
of His promises. As we prepare for Christmas, let us follow Mary’s example by
bringing love to others, Elizabeth’s example by celebrating God’s work in those
we meet, and John’s example by leaping for joy at Christ’s presence.
May this Advent lead us to encounter Jesus in new and
life-giving ways, filling our hearts with the hope, peace, and joy of His
coming. Emmanuel, God with us, is near!
LET US PRAY
Heavenly Father,
As we reflect on the joyful meeting of Mary and Elizabeth, we are reminded of
the power of faith in Your Word. Like Mary, who believed in the fulfillment of
Your promise, teach us to trust in Your plans for our lives, even when we
cannot see the path ahead.
Help us to walk with unwavering faith, confident that Your Word
brings life, hope, and unprecedented blessings. Fill our hearts with the joy of
encountering Jesus, as John leaped in his mother’s womb at His presence. May
we, too, rejoice in Your nearness, finding strength and peace in Your promises.
Lord, inspire us to live this Advent with hearts open to Your
grace. Let our faith move us to acts of love and service, as Mary hastened to
Elizabeth with care and compassion. May our words and deeds proclaim the
blessings of trusting in You.
Through the intercession of Mary, the Mother of Your Son, may we
embrace the call to believe, to trust, and to rejoice in the fulfillment of
Your Word. Grant that this Advent season transforms our hearts and draws us
closer to the gift of Emmanuel, God with us.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.🙏🙏🙏
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment