“But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well along in years.” Luke 1: 7 (ESV)
Maybe Mary was sick from this pregnancy and all the uncertainty. Maybe she tired of the wondering stares, the darting glances, the whispers behind hands. Maybe Joseph’s reaction was just too much.
Maybe she just felt alone. The angel’s visit was so long ago. The honor placed on her seemed anything but. Confused, tired, and misunderstood, she needed someone, anyone, who would understand.
Maybe Elizabeth was her favorite aunt. Maybe Mary assumed Elizabeth would understand her situation, as Elizabeth herself was pregnant with a miracle child. Not through immaculate conception, but a child for an older woman who was said to be barren. Just maybe, Aunt Elizabeth could understand. And just maybe, Mary needed a breather.
Whatever prompted her to visit her aunt, we know Scripture says she hurried. She must have felt compelled to propel herself toward Aunt Elizabeth.
In Luke 1: 39-45, we read:
At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
Elizabeth’s greeting must have been such a breath of fresh air! First, she was obviously glad to see her! And, this pregnancy was known, and celebrated! Elizabeth had no trouble believing Mary was carrying her Savior! Elizabeth knew first-hand how God could work. And she knew God worked behind the scenes, beyond human comprehension.
How appropriate that God would send young Mary to this older, wiser woman. This wonderful relative would completely understand and encourage this mother of Jesus.
God provided for Mary’s emotional needs. He provided for her spiritual needs. He provided her with encouragement, just when she needed it. God fulfilled his promise that “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Because even then, He was the God who sees. (Genesis 16:13)
What are you looking for this Christmas? A respite? Understanding? Simple getting a breather? Maybe you wish you too, had an aunt Elizabeth who would shout a greeting before you even entered, welcoming you inside, a shelter from the world which doesn’t seem to understand.
God sees you.
He knows how you are feeling. He comprehends what you wish, even when you yourself struggle to put it into words.
He will meet your needs.
He will stand in the gap.
Trust Him, as Mary did.
You don’t need to imagine just how He’ll work it out. You don’t have to author advice. You simply need to trust. Claim the promise that “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her.”
The promise He sees.
The promise He will meet every need.
The promise He will never leave you alone.
No matter the year it’s been, there is much indeed to celebrate this Christmas.
Because we need reminded that we are not alone. We are loved indeed.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you that You are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. You are indeed the God who sees. You promise to meet every need. Just as You did for Mary. I need to recall when You call me to tough things, You will provide for every need each step of the way. Thank You, In Jesus’ name, Amen.