The joy you bring
We know the story well. Young Mary, pregnant with Jesus, hastened over the Judean hills and valleys to be with Elizabeth, pregnant in her old age. Mary went quickly. She hurried to go to be someone who needed her. Mary had a good excuse not to go in that journey: her own health and preparations for birth. But she risked the road. She took time. She spent the energy. All of Mary’s life was guided by the Spirit of God. Mary knew Elizabeth needed her, and so he went.
Mary’s assumption, a triumph over death, celebrates a woman who lived her life bringing goodness to others. She is a wonderful model of faith for us.
In our world of hurry and worry, we can legitimately have plenty to do just to care for ourselves and our own business. But there are Elizabeths everywhere who need our visits. What a difference a phone call, a letter, a text message, or a “stopping by” can make to a lonely, ill or aged person. What joy we can bring to children by paying full attention to them. What happiness we offer friends and colleagues when we affirm their successes and celebrations. We need only to look and we easily find an Elizabeth today. May the Joy Mary’s visit brought to Elizabeth be the joy that your presence brings to those whom you take time to “visit” today.
