The 4th Sunday of Advent: Luke 1:39-45
Today we hear the account of the Visitation of Mary to her relative, Elizabeth. This event anticipates the birth of Jesus.
Mary’s journey to Elizabeth immediately followed the Annunciation of the Angel Gabriel to Mary, when she learned that she would give birth to the Messiah. Scripture tells us that she went “in haste” to see Elizabeth, who was in her sixth month of pregnancy with John the Baptist. It is incredible to think of what this encounter must have been like. Here are two women who have been called by God to bring forth children into the world who would transform history. John would lead the way for the Messiah, Jesus, who would save us from our sins.
Upon Mary’s arrival, John the Baptist leaped in Elizabeth’s womb as an expression of acknowledgement of the presence of the Lord, Jesus, in Mary’s womb. Elizabeth articulates this with the familiar words we say in the “Hail, Mary”: “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” She also referred to Mary as “the mother of my Lord.” Thus, Elizabeth expressed faith that Jesus was the Messiah. And she honored Mary for her role in bringing the Messiah into this world. This leads us to an important reflection on Mary’s role in God’s bringing of salvation to the world. God chose to become man in order to save us from our sins. But He did not force Himself into humanity. He did not disrespect our human freedom in order to do so. Rather, He invited Mary to be the mother of the Messiah. And because she said ‘yes,’ God became incarnate.
Therefore, we can echo the words of Elizabeth in saying, “Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” Mary trusted God, even though what she was entrusted with was beyond comprehension. Because of her great faith in welcoming Jesus into this world, we proclaim with Elizabeth that Mary is “blessed among women,” and most of all, give thanks for the amazing gift of our Lord, Jesus, coming into this world.
As we approach the celebration of Christmas, offer thanks to God this week for the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. And, in celebrating Christmas, strive to focus your attention on Jesus, rather than the consumerism and commercialism of this time of year. Take time in prayer to give thanks for the blessings you have been given, especially the gift of salvation.
