Luke 1:39-42,46,53-56 NRSVue

39In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, 40where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit 42and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.

46And Mary said,

“My soul magnifies the Lord,

53he has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. 54He has come to the aid of his child Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

56And Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.

Some thoughts on this scripture

Reflection
When the two mothers-to-be meet, John while in the womb of Elizabeth recognises Jesus in the womb of Mary and leaps for joy. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth declares Mary to be the most blessed of women. Mary’s response is to sing God’s praises in words that echo those of Hannah in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. We can ponder, like Mary, on the richness of this passage.

Reflection
Mary, show us how to gain some of your serenity, your total acceptance of God’s will for your life. Mary was totally open to God. Intercede for us with your Son that we too may find the courage to say ‘Let it be done unto me according to Your will’.