Reflection on The Visitation

Luke 1:39-56: A Journey of Love and Service

My dear children,

As I reflect on the moment of my Visitation to my cousin Elizabeth, I want you to see it not only as a journey between two women but as a profound lesson of love, humility, and service. “At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth” (Luke 1:39-40). The Visitation is more than a physical journey; it is a journey of the heart, one that teaches us how to respond to the needs of others with love, faith, and selflessness.

Responding to the Call of Love

When the angel Gabriel told me that Elizabeth, in her old age, was with child, I felt a deep call to go to her. This call was not only a physical one but a call of the heart. “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!” (Luke 1:42). My decision to visit Elizabeth was an act of love, a response to the joy and miracle God had placed in both of our lives. I want you to understand that love calls you to move toward others, especially in times of need. Love urges you to take action, not for recognition but out of a genuine desire to share in the lives of others, to rejoice with them, and to support them.

Love calls you to act. I encourage you to listen to the quiet voice of love that moves you toward those in need, knowing that every act of love brings joy and blessing.

The Gift of Presence

When I arrived at Elizabeth’s home, it was not my words but my presence that carried the greatest meaning. “When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit” (Luke 1:41). Sometimes, the most profound way you can show love is simply by being present for someone else. My presence brought joy to Elizabeth and confirmation of the miracle within her. I want you to remember that being present for others—offering your time, your attention, and your compassion—can be one of the greatest gifts you can give. In a world that often rushes from one task to another, I encourage you to slow down and be fully present with those you love.

Your presence is a gift. I encourage you to be present for others, knowing that your companionship brings comfort, joy, and strength.

The Joy of Serving with Humility

In my journey to Elizabeth, I also embraced the joy of serving with humility. “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant” (Luke 1:46-48). The Visitation teaches you that true service comes from a place of humility. I did not go to Elizabeth expecting praise or recognition. I went because I wanted to serve her, to share in her joy, and to support her in her time of need. When you serve others with humility, you reflect God’s love in its purest form. Service is not about what you gain; it is about what you give from the heart.

Humility makes love flourish. I encourage you to serve others with humility, trusting that selfless service brings joy and fulfillment both to you and those you serve.

Sharing in Each Other’s Joy

The Visitation was a moment of mutual joy. Elizabeth’s words to me were filled with excitement and wonder: “But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:43). We shared in the joy of what God was doing in our lives. I want you to know that love invites you to rejoice with others. Life is filled with moments of blessings and miracles, and sharing those joys with others magnifies them. When you celebrate the blessings of those around you, you uplift them and create bonds of love and unity. I encourage you to be a source of joy for others, to celebrate their victories as if they were your own.

Rejoicing together strengthens love. I encourage you to share in the joys of those around you, knowing that celebrating together builds stronger, more loving relationships.

Trusting in God’s Promises

Finally, The Visitation reminds you to trust in God’s promises. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaimed: “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” (Luke 1:45). God’s promises are faithful and true, and I trusted completely in His plan for my life. I want you to place your trust in God’s promises, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. Trust that God is with you, guiding you, and that His promises will be fulfilled in His perfect time. Faith in God’s promises brings peace and joy, even in the midst of life’s challenges.

Trust in God brings peace. I encourage you to hold fast to God’s promises, knowing that He will fulfill them in His time, just as He fulfilled His promises to me and Elizabeth.

Action Steps:

Respond to love’s call. Be open to the needs of others and respond with love, knowing that your actions can bring joy and blessing to their lives.

Be present. Offer your presence to those in need, understanding that sometimes simply being there is the greatest gift you can give.

Serve with humility. Embrace the joy of serving others selflessly, reflecting God’s love in every act of service.

Words to Reflect On:

“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” (Luke 1:45). My dear children, The Visitation teaches you the power of love, service, presence, and trust. Embrace these lessons in your daily life, and trust that God’s promises will always be fulfilled.

With love and grace,

Your Mother Mary