Mother's Day Joy

READ LUKE 1:5-7; 24-25; 39-45

When you think of Luke 1, which woman stands out the most?

Mary or Elizabeth?

Elizabeth’s moment was noteworthy, but does not compare to the messiah being born on the earth.

November 22, 1963 is a momentous day in history. C.S. Lewis, one of the most famous Christ apologists and writers died. His death should have been on front page news, but it wasn’t. He died on the same day as President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated.

Elizabeth, the daughter of a priest and married to a priest, was devoted to God her entire life.

She and Zachariah were childless.

Her infertility reminds us that difficulties in life do not only happen whenever we are disobedient.

In Jewish circles, the belief of people was that God would bless faithful followers by giving them children. Why not Zachariah and Elizabeth?

Elizabeth heard every hurtful comment, experienced pain, and couldn’t understand. People often question God in this area. “Why has this happened to me” or “Why hasn’t this happen to me”?

We don’t know why. Only God knows why.

Upon learning of her pregnancy, Elizabeth lived in seclusion for 5 months until her situation was beyond doubt.

“The Lord has done this for me.”

Elizabeth offered a grateful acknowledgement of God’s favor. She would leave it up to Him to announce her pregnancy.

And then came the beautiful moment.

Elizabeth’s pregnancy was 6 months ahead of Mary’s pregnancy.

Mary came into her presence, the Holy Spirit filled Elizabeth, and John the Baptist kicked inside her womb.

Mary was young. Would have more children. This was Elizabeth’s moment. She didn’t have to do what she did.

Elizabeth looked past her personal blessing and acknowledged the greatest blessing.

She gave an expression of an unborn baby’s joy.

“You are the most blessed among women.”

It was as if the Holy Spirit said, “This is Him!”

“What a privilege you have Mary!”

Fast forward. John 3:22-30. John the Baptist decreased his own influence so Jesus’ influence would increase.

Behind this great man of God was a mother who taught him to love God.

Takeaways:

Trying to understand God’s plan and timing is too exhausting to worry about.

You don’t have to announce your joy. god will announce through you.

In christ, there is always a greater joy.

Choose joy on this Mother’s Day.