Mic. 5:2-5a; Heb. 10:5-10; Lk. 1:39-45
Mary’s journey to Elizabeth’s house begins with her unwavering belief in the angel Gabriel’s message that she would bear the Son of God. Her faith is echoed in Elizabeth’s proclamation: “Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.” This belief in God’s word is foundational to Mary’s role in salvation history.
In the Old Testament, Abraham’s faith mirrors Mary’s trust. When God promised that Abraham would have descendants as numerous as the stars, he believed despite his old age and Sarah’s barrenness (Genesis 15:5-6). Similarly, Mary’s belief transcends human understanding, as she trusts in God’s plan despite her humble circumstances.
In John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress we find a great example of unwavering faith. Christian, the protagonist, exhibits steadfast belief in reaching the Celestial City despite numerous trials and temptations. His unwavering faith in the promises of God guides him through his journey, much like Mary’s belief sustained her.
Today, we are called to believe in God’s promises amidst uncertainty. Consider the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who believed in the dream of racial equality and justice despite facing immense opposition and personal danger. His steadfast faith in nonviolence and God’s justice inspired a movement that transformed the United States. In our lives, believing God’s word means trusting His plan even when it is not immediately clear. It challenges us to act with courage and hope, knowing that God’s promises are always fulfilled.
The second message of Today’s Gospel is understanding the need of the neighbor and rendering service.
Mary’s journey to Elizabeth’s home demonstrates her understanding of Elizabeth’s needs. Elizabeth, advanced in age and six months pregnant, would have welcomed Mary’s companionship and assistance. Mary’s haste to serve her cousin reflects a heart attuned to others’ needs.
The Old Testament provides another example in Ruth, who accompanied her mother-in-law Naomi to Bethlehem. Ruth’s selfless service, gleaning in fields to provide for Naomi, illustrates a love that puts others first (Ruth 2:2-3). This kind of neighborly care is also seen in the parable of the Good Samaritan, where Jesus underscores the importance of rendering aid to those in need, regardless of social or cultural boundaries (Luke 10:25-37).
History offers countless examples of selfless service. Mother Teresa’s life embodies this virtue as she dedicated herself to the care of the poor, sick, and dying in Kolkata. Her work reminds us of the moral imperative to see Christ in others and to serve them with love and humility.
Another great example is the story of Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross, who provided tireless aid to soldiers during the Civil War and brought relief to countless individuals in times of disaster. Her dedication to serving others, often at great personal risk, exemplifies the spirit of loving one’s neighbor.
The passage calls us to emulate Mary’s faith and her readiness to serve. In a world rife with skepticism and self-centeredness, believing in God’s word requires countercultural courage. It invites us to trust that God’s plans are good and to live in hope.
At the same time, understanding and addressing the needs of our neighbors is essential. Whether through volunteering, supporting charitable causes, or simply offering a listening ear, small acts of service create ripples of goodness in a fragmented world.
Mary’s visit to Elizabeth teaches us that faith and service are interconnected. The story of Nicholas Winton is meaningful in today’s context. Winton an ordinary British stockbroker who in 1939 arranged for the rescue of 669 Jewish children from Czechoslovakia, saving them from the Holocaust. Motivated by a sense of faith in humanity and the conviction to serve those in need, Winton worked tirelessly to organize trains, find foster families, and ensure the children’s safety. His faith in the good that could be done and his service to vulnerable children show how belief and action can transform lives. Like Mary, Winton responded with haste to meet an urgent need, demonstrating that faith in a higher purpose often finds its expression in selfless service to others. May we, like Mary and Winton, move with haste to bring God’s presence into the lives of those around us.
Satish