Psalm 34:3 (WEB)
Oh magnify Yahweh with me.
Let’s exalt his name together.
After Gabriel delivered God’s message to Mary, he left her with an additional piece of information that would help her through the immediate days that followed. This information was a true gift for Mary.
“Behold, Elizabeth your relative also has conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing spoken by God is impossible. (Luke 1:36-37 WEB)
This news was a lifeline for Mary, for Elizabeth was not only someone she knew, but also someone who was experiencing a miracle pregnancy. Perhaps she would believe Mary’s incredible explanation about her pregnancy.
The Bible says that after the angel Gabriel departed, Mary made quick arrangements and left “with haste” to go visit Elizabeth. This was a great plan! For Elizabeth would be the perfect mentor for Mary at this time.
When she arrived at Elizabeth’s house, Mary found she did not have to explain much about her situation, after all. For as soon as she had spoken a greeting, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and burst out, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! Why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the voice of your greeting came into my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy! Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of the things which have been spoken to her from the Lord!” (Luke 1:42-45 WEB)
What a beautiful blessing Elizabeth has spoken over Mary! As far as we know, she is the first person to become aware of Mary’s pregnancy. And what an amazing response she has to this news!
Mary, in turn, responds by giving praise and glory to God.
Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord. My spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, for he has looked at the humble state of his servant. For behold, from now on, all generations will call me blessed. For he who is mighty has done great things for me. Holy is his name.” (Luke 1:46049 WEB)
These two women may have been an unlikely pair, since Mary was so young and Elizabeth was well advanced in years. But they are joined together in a friendship built on their shared love for God and willing obedience to serve Him. And the result of this fellowship is two beautiful expressions of faith and praise to God.
When was the last time you gathered with others to praise God and encourage each other in your walk of faith? Though we typically think of this kind of fellowship happening in a church, it isn’t restricted to organized meetings. Just like Mary and Elizabeth, informal meetings at someone’s home can serve the same purpose. Whether it is a small group, play date, or meeting for lunch, small gatherings can be amazing opportunities to support each other and God’s plan in your lives. The result is individual growth and praise.
Today, take time to thank God for the friendships in your life. And look for the opportunities God sends to you to be an encouragement to someone else.
“O Come, All Ye Faithful,” performed by The Petersens.
Scripture verses are from the World English Bible (WEB), Public Domain.