Reflection for Thursday, May 31, 2001: Visitation of the Virgin Mary to Elizabeth.
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Authors
Schlegel, John, S.J.
Issue Date
2001-05-31
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Essay
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en_US
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Abstract
We all love company! Luke's account of the visit of Mary to Elizabeth is one of the most human and natural scenes in scripture. We can all relate to Elizabeth's excitement. For we have all been both visitor and host on many occasions. When others come to see us, to visit and chat, to bring us comfort and consolation, to simply be with us, it is good for both the body and the soul. "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leaped in her womb and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." And Mary responds with her great hymn of joy and faithfulness. So it is with us for we are also Christ-bearers to one another and joy-makers for one another.|Dorothy Day was a great joy-maker and a great Christ-bearer. She insisted that it was necessary to cultivate a spirit of joy. She noted, "The courteous gesture increases one's respect for others. To act lovingly is to begin to feel loving and certainly to act joyfully brings joy to others which in turn makes one feel joyful. I believe we are called to the duty of delight." Mary, mother of our Lord, responded to her "duty of delight."|Mary's joyful life was rooted in a deep appreciation of God's love. God's love for her, for Elizabeth, for us. Mary proclaims for all generations to reflect upon, that her "soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord ... because he has looked upon his lowly handmaid ... the Almighty has done great things for me."|Such a disposition towards the joyful life is found in Paul's comments to the Romans. He exhorts them, and us, "to love each other ... have a profound respect for each other ... share with those in need; and you should make hospitality your special care." This is the 'stuff' that makes-up the joyful life.|Mary and Elizabeth, in each other's company, in their delight, their joy and, their faith, acknowledge God's great love for them. And that love is the foundation of their joyful life. As it is for us.
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University Ministry, Creighton University.
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These reflections may not be sold or used commercially without permission. Personal or parish use is permitted.
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Lectionary Number: 572