Luke 1:39-56

Some thoughts on today's scripture:
Both of the women in our Gospel today had extraordinary stories to share about God's action in their conceiving, about their faith in God's promise to them, and also about becoming mothers for the first time.

Imagine being an invisible presence in the house as these two women meet and chat. Try to imagine the joys and anxieties they might have shared. They both held the space of Divine promise within the ordinariness of everyday life. Is there anything the Lord may be trying to teach you at this time? Is there anything new within you that he is trying to bring to birth?

Mary is an archetype for all Christians in how to say yes to God. God desires to have a personal relationship with each of us. Mary models for us how to respond to this great invitation. She trusts that God wants to do this great work in her, and recognises what a glorious privilege this is for her. She sees that it is entirely God's doing - she is merely saying yes, and her response has ramifications for the whole world.

When two people meet who have said yes to God in their lives, like Mary and her cousin Elizabeth in today's scripture; the new life of God that is growing in them leaps for joy in recognition of one another. It is God in one greeting God in the other.