Scripture
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
Reflection
This small passage is “pregnant” with meaning (pun intended!) It is the gospel writer Luke who will tell us the most about the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Early in the story of Jesus which will be carried forward by these women and others like them; we see the Holy Spirit introduced when he fills Elizabeth and when the baby John leaps within her womb. Many years later Jesus will fill others up with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4) and a certain lame man would go leaping at the sound of that name, Jesus (Acts 3:8) Oh that the name of Jesus would still set our feet to dancing even today! (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about Jesus and people?
- How is the Holy Spirit active in your daily life?
- Who can you share this passage with?
Prayer
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. Be still and allow the presence of Jesus to bring you rest right now.
