THIRD SATURDAY OF ADVENT
ELIZABETH, JOY
SCRIPTURE
READING: Luke 1:39-56
Elizabeth
was the wife of Zechariah, a priest, and the mother of John the
Baptist. She was a righteous woman who had long desired a child, but
in her old age, she had been unable to conceive. When the angel Gabriel visited
Zechariah and promised that Elizabeth would bear a son, despite her age, she
humbly accepted God’s will, saying, “The Lord has done this for me” (Luke
1:25).
When
Mary, who was carrying Jesus, visited Elizabeth, the unborn John leaped
in her womb, recognizing the presence of the Savior (Luke 1:41-44). Elizabeth’s
response was a proclamation of blessing: “Blessed are you among
women, and blessed is the child you will bear!” (Luke 1:42).
Elizabeth's recognition of Mary and her child shows her deep faith and
understanding of the significance of Jesus' birth.
Elizabeth’s
story teaches us about faith, patience, and humility. Despite her long
wait for a child, she trusted in God's plan, which was far greater than she
could have imagined. Her story also highlights the role of women in
God’s salvation plan and their faithful response to His calling.
PRAYER:
Lord,
thank You for the faith of Elizabeth, who trusted in Your plan and rejoiced in
Your blessings. Help us to have faith in Your timing and to humbly accept Your
will in our lives. May we recognize and celebrate the presence of Jesus in our
midst. Amen.
