Lk 1:39-45
Mary then set out for a town in the hill country of Judah. She entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leapt in her womb. Elizabeth was filled with holy spirit, and giving a loud cry, said, “You are most blessed among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb! How is it that the mother of my Lord comes to me? The moment your greeting sounded in my ears, the baby within me suddenly leapt for joy. Blessed are you who believed that the Lord’s word would come true!”
REFLECTION
READ: Mary without regard to her own condition went in haste to her cousin Elizabeth who was already six months along the family way. Their meeting brought joy most especially to the infant in Elizabeth’s womb. Elizabeth praised the courage of Mary to believe in the word of the Lord.
REFLECT: There are people who throw caution to the wind when faced by the problems and discomforts of others. They are so unselfconscious that their own needs take a backseat every time amidst the miseries and wants of others. The Blessed Mother never thought of hiding her pregnancy nor her own difficult situation when she heard of the delicate condition of her cousin Elizabeth. She sped in haste to be of service to the older pregnant woman. That is why she was a joy to behold and welcomed. Her help was made more precious by her sacrifice. Even the infant acknowledged it. If ever the Blessed Virgin carried something when she was with others, never herself, her ego or her shadow. It is the Lord Jesus Christ. May we also be the bearer of Christ every time we visit others.
RESPOND: When was the last time we have visited a relative or a friend? It seemed ages ago that we bothered to see them. Perhaps today since it is a Sunday, we can plan to visit someone whom we have not seen for a long time. And don’t forget to bring a gift. If you cannot bring Jesus, a material gift will do.
PRAY: Lord, help us to think less of ourselves and be more sensitive to others. May we delight to be of service and not be too particular of any reward. May the Virgin teach us the way to selflessness so that Jesus will have space within us. Amen.
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