(Luke 1:39-56)
Mary and Elizabeth were kinswomen. They were related to each other and Mary went to visit and stay with Elizabeth for a few months. It is evident that the Holy Spirit was with both of these women for they prophesied of the Lord and the things to come.
Elizabeth had been given insight into the fact that Mary was to be the mother of the Christ, and this was confirmed when her baby, John the Baptist, leapt for joy in her womb as Mary approached and spoke. Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit as she spoke the prophecy saying, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Verse 41-43)
When Mary replied she spoke those words commonly referred to as “The Magnificat.” Her words were clearly spoken in great humility for she was not concerned with herself but gave all glory to the Lord God. She spoke great wisdom in these words that we can consider and bear remembering.
She rightly proclaimed that, “…his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.” (Verse 50) There is no doubt that those who come to the Lord, humble and obedient to his will, shall receive God’s mercy. And she continues saying, “He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts, he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree…” (Verses 51-52) This principle of exalting the lowly and the humble is expressed throughout the New Covenant. God’s people are not proud or arrogant but humble, obedient and meek. This does not mean they are weak though. Far from it! But the strength of the people of God does not rest in their own strength. They do not rely on their own power but rather on the power of God to do mighty things. And in God’s mercy he does and will provide for his people.
For three months Mary stayed with Elizabeth, which shows how close they were. At about the time she left, whether before or after, John the Baptist was born and we will look at the events surrounding his birth in the next posting.
(Picture sourced from ChristiansUnite.com https://clipart.christiansunite.com/)
Hi! I’m John, the owner, author, and editor of this site. Over the past 50+ years as a Christian I have been teaching, preaching and writing about the Bible to help Christians gain a deeper insight into the scriptures that are easily understood. I also answer specific Bible related questions, so feel free to contact me.
