Reading: Luke 1:56
And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.
I don’t know if I had ever paid attention to the detail of this verse.
If Mary visited Elizabeth to verify that the word of the angel Gabriel was true. If she was amazed and marveled at the grace of God upon her aged cousin, who when it was impossible for her to become a mother is evidently about to do so.
Why did she stay there for three months?
Elizabeth was 6 months pregnant (those who have been better know what a pregnancy entails). This mother-to-be is elderly.
Maria stays with her in the last months, simply to serve.
To accompany her cousin, to help with the housework, to prepare everything for the baby to be born. For whatever is necessary.
Mary, who said “behold the handmaid of the Lord” leaves us an example of how she embodies this. In her humility, and her love translated into service.
May God put in us the servant heart of Mary. May our love for others always be translated into simple but tangible actions.
MEDITATE: Do we ask the Lord for a servant’s heart like hers? Is Mary our example in this? Do we find joy in serving?
