Blessed Is She Who Believed

"And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord." Luke 1: 45 NRSV

Mary walks into her cousin's home and immediately both women are filled with the Spirit and begin praising God and one another.

Even in utero, there is a recognition of the definite hierarchy of these two children.

Elizabeth speaks first and recognizes the superiority of Mary's belief and acceptance of what God had told her. This is in great contrast to both Zechariah's (now mute) and Elizabeth's (now in seclusion) belief, Mary's own hasty departure from home not withstanding.

It is Elizabeth's child who leaps within her and acknowledges the greater baby in the room/womb. Elizabeth, how is older, addresses Mary as the mother of her Lord. It is Mary's baby who is Lord, not Elizabeth's. So it is not only about acceptance but the actual child that decides who is more significant.

I think it is not the understanding of a virgin birth that we should focus on but the trusting acceptance of God's promise.

God, help us to focus on your promises this Season. In Jesus' name. Amen.