December 10, 2020
Luke 1:39-45—Mary
“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.” Luke 1: 39-40
As one of our few sacred stories where women are the protagonists, this one always stirs emotion and wonder in me. Luke’s beautiful narration invites us into the story to wander around in Mary’s head and heart. What must this young teenager be thinking upon hearing Gabriel’s incredible, most unexpected news? Why did Mary immediately leave and travel the nearly 100 miles to visit her cousin Elizabeth? What gamut of emotions was she experiencing? Disbelief, fear, joy, vulnerability, eagerness, nervousness? If asked, I imagine Mary whispering “yes” to all.
Upon her arrival, picture these two women standing bump to bump, baby John leaping for joy in his mother’s womb as he hears Mary’s voice. Elizabeth, in that moment overwhelmed by the Spirit, loudly exclaiming the prophetic news that Mary is to be the blessed mother of the Messiah! Mary must have been bursting to share this news with someone who could understand and relate to the wonder of it all. Perhaps Mary came knowing that this great joy would only be complete once shared. Mary brought the joy of Jesus to Elizabeth. And Elizabeth gave Mary the gift of community.
Lovingly created as relational beings, we thrive when linked in love to God and each other. In these uncertain times so many are hurting – feeling alone, sick, oppressed, anxious, resentful or exhausted. Who needs me to bring community and the joy of Jesus to them?
Prayer: Oh God, Let others see Jesus in me – right here, right now. Amen.
Charley Faulkenberry