Come Lord Jesus

Mary and Elizabeth are both visited by the mystery of God, and through their 'Yes' to God the Father, directly participate in the saving plan of God.  Mary goes to Elizabeth's house to offer support; but they also theologize their experience.  Elizabeth, overwhelmed by these events, asks "How does this happen to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?  Mary's response is to offer praise and worship to God the Father for everything that God continues to do in the world.  Together they reflect upon these events.

Years ago our Diocese had a catholic study program called, Renew.  Many people were afraid to participate, but the ones who did found it uncomfortable at first to take leadership roles.  The common protest was that they were not theologians.  But we were not looking for the likes of Augustine or Rahner, rather men and women who would discuss their 'God experiences.'

Maybe because we have seen Mary and Elizabeth depicted in art countless times, we continue to look at the persons from sacred scripture as innately holy, with all knowledge and wisdom.  No these were very human folks, close to God to be sure, who were afraid, confused, and even anxious.  But the one thing that they did have, and that was faith, and a life of faithfulness.  We are told that Mary reflects upon all of these things in her heart.  The 'Yes' given by Mary and Elizabeth comes out of their knowledge and love of God the Father, in addition to their trust in God's unending kindness.

In both the Canticles of Mary and Zechariah, we see a litany of the works of God.  In the past God has done awesome things, so in all probability God will continue to do good things for his people.  Because of their understanding of God's ongoing faithfulness, and the covenant that God has bestowed upon us, Mary, Elizabeth, Zechariah, Joseph, and countless others through the centuries, have said 'Yes' to God, and taken on a life of faithful discipleship.

The Second Vatican Council implored all faithful people to reflect on God's presence in our lives.  Mary and Elizabeth begin one of the first faith sharing groups!  In faith we gather together to contemplate God's action in our lives, to offer support and comfort, and to reflect more carefully on God's plan of salvation.  We might also be able to see and recognize that nothing is impossible for God.