greeting, the baby leapt in her womb. Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and, giving
a loud cry, said, “You are most blessed among women; and blessed is the fruit of your
womb! How is it, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? The moment your greeting
sounded in my ears, the baby within me suddenly leapt for joy. Blessed are you, who
believed that the Lord’s word would come true!” And Mary said, “My soul proclaims the
greatness of the Lord, my spirit exults in God, my savior! He has looked upon his servant,
in her lowliness, and people, forever, will call me blessed. The Mighty One has done
great things for me, Holy is his Name! From age to age, his mercy extends to those who
live in his presence. He has acted with power and done wonders, and scattered the
proud with their plans. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, and lifted up
those who are downtrodden. He has filled the hungry with good things, but has sent
the rich away empty. He held out his hand to Israel, his servant, for he remembered
his mercy, even as he promised to our fathers, to Abraham and his descendants
forever.” Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months, and then returned home.

Reflect

“Blessed among women.” Our Marian devotion always points to God’s goodness.
Events in the life of the Blessed Mother, from her Immaculate Conception to her being
assumed into heaven, indicate that she found favor with God, and that God is good.
Today’s Gospel narrates the story of Mary’s visitation to her cousin Elizabeth. Within
the narration, we find Mary’s song called the Magnificat. The very first line of the song
says it all: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.” Mary’s life magnifies the Lord.
The Greek word psychē may mean life, or more appropriately – “inner life.” Mary’s inner
life has recognized God’s goodness. God’s goodness also manifested itself
in Mary’s outer life. Hence, she appeared to be magnanimous in everything she did.
Mary was joyful and grateful in good times and courageous and resolute in trying times.
How did Mary do this? She first recognized that all goodness belongs to God.
Like the Blessed Mother, we are called to magnify the Lord in all circumstances –
grateful when blessed and courageous when faced with difficulties. This is the
way we can experience being assumed into God’s grace even in the here and now.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2024