Mary Did You Know

God moments, God sighting, Joyful encounters, whatever you call them. They is something unique and even empowering when fellow believers come together.

It does not matter if it is during a worship service, or is in the Walmart parking lot, when God’s people meet, there is a special spirit in that space.

AMEN.

Perhaps this is what Jesus met when he said, “Where two or three are gathered together, I will be present.”

We have such and encounter in the Bible reading today. It begins with a journey.

1. Journey of Joy

Luke 1:39–41 NASB95

Now at this time Mary arose and went in a hurry to the hill country, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

Circle the word: Mary and write 14-15 years old.

Girls in that day could to betroth or enter into a formal agreement to be married as young at 12, but most Bible teachers believe Mary was a little older.

Now circle the words: a city of Judah. Write beside it a walk of 80 to 100 miles.

You could explore how Mary's journey to Elizabeth symbolizes the importance of seeking joyful, faith-filled relationships that affirm and uplift. As Mary's greeting leads to Elizabeth feeling her baby leap in the womb, consider this as a call to recognize moments where the Holy Spirit uplifts our spirits through genuine connections. These holy encounters, infused with joy, reflect the love of Christ, reminding us to nurture supportive communities in Him.

2. Proclamation of Praise

Luke 1:42–44 NASB95

And she cried out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! “And how has it happened to me, that the mother of my Lord would come to me? “For behold, when the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy.

Perhaps delve into Elizabeth's proclamation as an example of the Holy Spirit's work in recognizing God's action in others. Elizabeth's Spirit-filled blessing upon Mary reflects how we, too, can boldly affirm God's work in those around us. This suggests the transformative power of sharing faith-filled insights, fostering a Christ-centered community that celebrates each other's calling and purpose in God's plan.

3. Blessed Belief

Luke 1:45 NASB95

“And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what had been spoken to her by the Lord.”

Maybe emphasize the blessed assurance and joy found in believing God's promises. Elizabeth's affirmation of Mary's faith offers an inspirational model for us to trust in God's plan, despite uncertainty. As we enter Christmas, this encourages believers to hold fast to the joy and hope in Christ, fostering resilience and unity. This shared faith celebration can highlight the anticipation of God's continued fulfillment in our lives.

In the midst of our Christmas celebrations, let us be reminded of the joy found in recognizing God's work in our lives and in the lives of others, fostering connections that reflect Christ's love.