This week, we will reflect on “The Visitation”, Mary’s visit to her cousin, Elizabeth. The angel Gabriel has recently informed Mary that Elizabeth is six months pregnant for “nothing is impossible to God”. (Luke 1:37)
Elizabeth’s pregnancy is unexpected because she and her husband, Zechariah, are elderly and unable to have children.
Zechariah, when he was on temple duty as a priest in the Temple, had been told by the angel Gabriel that Elizabeth would fall pregnant once he returned home. He did not believe the angel and immediately became dumb (and perhaps deaf) until John was born and named. (Luke 1:5-25)
At that time, not bearing children was seen in a bad light. Imagine how Elizabeth must have hoped for a baby. Perhaps Elizabeth had previously fallen pregnant
but miscarried. Would she fear the same this time despite being filled with joy and excitement? Now that she is pregnant through God’s intervention, maybe she is wondering what God’s purpose is and how she will manage it.
With whom would she share her hopes, fears, wonderings and excitement? Her husband could not speak. She was much older than the young women in the community who were pregnant. What about those who had rejected
her in her barrenness?
Elizabeth was chosen for a unique role. She would need someone close to her to listen to her story and support her.
What are or have been the hopes I have waited a long time for?
Think back on hopes that were fulfilled and how you felt then.
Have I found it essential to be able
to share my story with someone?
What is God’s invitation to me today?
Reflect on the following thoughts:
God has chosen me to bear fruit for him,
God has chosen you to bear fruit for him,
God has chosen us to bear fruit for him.
Reflections by Kath Knowles
