*đź“–Bible Reading: Zephaniah 3:14-18.*
_For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty Saviour_ .
*Zephaniah 3:17.*
Today celebrates the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to her cousin Elizabeth when she was told by the Angel Gabriel that Elizabeth, who was far advanced in age, was with child. This miracle in her cousin’s life and her own earlier encounter with the angel made Mary want to hurry to visit her cousin, so they would share their joy together.
On her arrival and upon greeting her cousin, what was marvelous happened the baby in Elizabeth’s womb leapt for joy, and both women experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit. They both immediately praised God for all that was truly extraordinary that He had done in their lives.
Elizabeth praised God and blessed Mary, as the Holy Spirit revealed to her that Mary was “the mother of” her Lord. Mary responded in her Song of Praise: The “Magnificat”. She praised God for taking notice of her; for future generations who would call her “blessed”; for His greatness and might, and for showing mercy to all who fear Him.
She also exalted Him for His concern for the humble and hungry, as well as for keeping His promises to all her ancestors and their children forever.
The angel had informed Mary earlier that her son, whom she would conceive and give birth to, would “be very Great” and would be called the“Son of the Most High”. He also said, “He will reign over Israel forever; his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:32-33; Zephaniah 3:17).
He is“Emmanuel God is with us” (Matthew 1:23).The God who did so much in the lives of both Elizabeth and Mary is still with us and doing all so amazingly. As He was then, so is He still today and will continue to be.
On this Feast Day, may we experience the presence of the Holy Spirit and may our deepest desires be met, as we continue to trust in Him.
*🙏🏼Prayer* : Father, I thank You for the Power of the Holy Spirit in my life. Your visit to Mary and Elizabeth has strengthened me amazing me that You are interested in my life also! I thank You for all that You have done and continue to do in my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
*đź“–Rest of Readings* : Ps. 113; Rom. 12:9-16; Luke 1:39-46 (50-56).