And when Elizabeth heard of the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed in a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women . . .” Luke 1:39-40
Can you imagine being Mary? Young, pregnant, unwed. In her day, she could have been stoned to death for adultery. Yet, in her heart she knew she had done no wrong. She travels to her cousin’s house to assist her in her pregnancy as was her duty. For Mary, it was all about duty. What would she face? What would happen when she began to show? It was in God’s hands. She had told the angel she would be obedient to His will.
God honored that. He filled Elizabeth with understanding. The first words out of her mouth were exactly what her younger cousin needed to hear. You are blessed. It is going to be alright. I know, and God is with you. So am I.
When you are in a tight situation, turn to God. If you are in His will, He will send you support and comfort through fellow Christians. You will not walk the path alone. Be obedient and do what He has called you to do. God is with you. Then, like Mary, your soul will magnify the Lord and your spirit rejoice in God your Savior no matter what the situation is.
And, if you have the opportunity to be an Elizabeth – an encourager and supporter in some other’s life during a hard time – please step forward. Let God use you and bless you both. That is the true lesson of Christmas.
