Elizabeth's encounter with Mary can be experienced today
by Sister Elise Cholewinski
I sat in a quiet room, meeting with my spiritual director and discerning a difficult decision I had to make. We talked about the pros and cons related to the decision. At one point in our conversation I presented her with a new piece of information and I immediately saw her face brighten up. That new information gave a clear picture of the situation and the choice that needed to be made. My director admitted that when I mentioned this new fact she actually felt something inside. What happened to her was a confirmation of the decision I was making.
In this Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 1:39-45) two women meet on a hill overlooking the beautiful Judean countryside. Mary has had an encounter with God and she was given a choice. Her acceptance of the call to be the Mother of Jesus portrayed a deep trust in God’s working in her life. Upon meeting her, Elizabeth feels something physically; the baby in her womb leaps for joy. It is a confirmation of Mary’s “Yes”, and Elizabeth then responds with, “Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled." I like to think of Elizabeth as Mary’s spiritual director.
When two people get together and share the story of God’s action in their lives, what transpires can truly be a sacred moment. As the celebration of Christmas approaches, with its gatherings of family and friends, be attentive to that opportunity when you can be apart for awhile with a friend or relative and describe those special invitations each of you may have received from the Lord and how you each responded. Note the movement of the Spirit within you. That moment could be a powerful visitation.
Thank you, Elise Inspirational! Yes, it is a sacred moment when two people get together and share the story of God's love in their lives.