Fourth Sunday of Advent

Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
Luke 1:42

I love the gospel reading used in today’s Mass. From the book of Luke, the reading is about Mary’s visit with Elizabeth; both women are pregnant – Mary with Jesus and Elizabeth with John (the Baptist).

Every time I have heard or read these verses, I have always wondered about the very human element of those involved.

Certainly, these two unborn babies would become extraordinary men. However, this part of the story, with two women pregnant, always makes me consider the very ordinary concerns of regular women. Their babies would have to be delivered, nursed, diapers changed and clothes provided. As the boys grew, they would have to be educated, taught life skills, etc., etc.

I certainly recall what it was like to be an expectant mother. I vividly remember thinking that I was nuts for wanting to become a mom. How on earth could I be responsible for a child? When I consider that Mary, and Elizabeth, were mothers in a time without modern conveniences, I cannot help but admire them.

God called both Mary and Elizabeth to serve Him, each in their own way.  He called and they answered. They were afraid, but they still served. This reading reminds me that we are all called to serve and to share our talents and gifts with others. And in doing this, we share the good news that Jesus has come for all of us!

Until next time,
~Karen

The Magnifcat

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.

He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty. 

He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for he remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children forever.
Luke 1:46-55