Day 10

The mother of John the Baptist is Elizabeth who plays an important role in supporting the newly pregnant Mary. Gabriel reveals Elizabeth’s pregnancy to Mary as a sign that God’s promises are to be trusted and will be fulfilled. Mary hurries off to visit Elizabeth, and as they meet something remarkable happens: the baby in Elizabeth’s womb stirs. The theme of the early chapters of Luke’s Gospel is that God is faithful and keeps his promises – to Zechariah, to Elizabeth, to Mary, to the people of Israel themselves.

In the story of Elizabeth and Mary, there is a sense in which God does not wish to leave us abandoned and lonely in our lives. We can look for and be ready to offer, hospitality with those who share our experiences.