the visitation

By now, my little friend, you have no doubt learned to manage on your own. Joyfully keep Joseph and Mary company . . . and you will hear the traditions of the House of David.

You will hear about Elizabeth and Zachary, you will be moved by Joseph’s pure love, and your heart will pound whenever they mention the Child who will be born in Bethlehem.

We walk in haste towards the mountains to a town of the tribe of Judah (Luke 1:39).

We arrive. It is the house where John the Baptist is to be born. Elizabeth gratefully hails the Mother of her Redeemer: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. Why should I be honored with a visit from the mother of my Lord?” (Luke 1:42-43).

The unborn Baptist quivers . . . (Luke 1:41). Mary’s humility pours forth in the Magnificat . . .. And you and I, who are proud—who were proud—promise to be humble.