Christian Reflection and Prayer

In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the
hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the
house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth (Luke 1:39-40)
Read Luke 1:39-45.

 

Christmas trips were always so much fun. It was exciting
to see the Christmas decorations as we walked up to the
front door. I loved stepping inside and seeing the Christmas
tree, along with all the toys my cousins or friends had
gotten for Christmas. Then we'd pull out a few toys of our
own that we had brought along.

 

A Christmas trip to her relative is the first step on Mary's
new path. She sets out to see her cousin Elizabeth, who
is miraculously pregnant in her old age. Mary quickly travels
from the area of Galilee to Zechariah's home in Judea. Filled
with excitement she walks up to Elizabeth's door. Beaming
with joy she greets her aged cousin-and gets the surprise
of her life.

 

In a loud and excited voice Elizabeth proclaims, "Blessed
are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your
womb!" (Luke 1:42b). Mary is shocked and delighted. She
hasn't even had the chance to say anything more than
"hello," and immediately Elizabeth knows everything. The
Holy Spirit has revealed to her that the Child just beginning
to grow in Mary's womb is actually God's Son.

What a comfort for Mary! She won't face the awkward
explanation of the circumstances concerning her pregnancy,
or have to convince the priest's wife this was all God's doing.
In an instant, before Mary can say anything, the Holy Spirit
has done it all. God has led her to the one couple able to fully
understand and appreciate the amazing things God has done
for her.

 

THE PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, thank You for faithful people like Elizabeth
who believe Your promises and share our faith. Bring us
together this Christmas season that we may rejoice together
and share our wonder at Your amazing love in Jesus Christ.

 

(Advent Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries)