Readings: Song of Songs 2: 8-14 / Zep 3: 14-18; Ps 33: Luke 1: 39-45
Today we read the glorious story of the Visitation. When Mary was about two months pregnant, she traveled to be with her cousin Elizabeth who was to give birth within a month. Though much could be said about this as an act of familial love given by Mary to Elizabeth, the central focus immediately becomes the precious Child within the womb of Mary.
Mary had just traveled more than 100 kilometres. She was likely exhausted. As she finally arrived, she would have been relieved and joyful at the completion of her journey. But Elizabeth says something quite inspiring at that moment, which elevates the joy of all present, including the joy of Mother Mary. Elizabeth says, “For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy” (Lk 1:44). Again, let us imagine the scene. It was this tiny child within Elizabeth’s womb, John the Baptist, who immediately perceived the presence of the Lord and leaped for joy. And it was Elizabeth who perceived the joy in her child living within her womb. As Elizabeth expressed this to Mary, who was already joyful at completing her journey, Mary was even more overjoyed at the realization that she had brought to Elizabeth and John the Savior of the World living within her womb.
This story should teach us much about what is most important in life, to reach out in love to others. It’s important to care for our relatives and friends when they need us the most. It’s important to be sacrificial with our time and energies for the good of others, because through these acts of humble service, we certainly share the love of God. More importantly, we must bring Christ Jesus Himself to others. Elizabeth was not filled with joy first and foremost because Mary was there to help her in her pregnancy. Rather, she was overjoyed primarily because Mary brought her Jesus, her Lord, living within her womb. This tells us that we must foster a love and devotion to our Lord so deep that He truly dwells within us. In order to make this our central mission in life which is unquestionably the greatest act of charity we will ever be able to offer to another. Therefore, let us commit ourselves to this holy calling of bringing Christ to others as an act of the deepest love.
Lord Jesus, as you do come to us, help us to become missionaries of your divine presence by bringing you to others so that they may encounter the joy of your presence. Amen. Abba Meskel