In today's Gospel we read the story of Mary visiting Elizabeth. What
gift did Mary bring to Elizabeth? She gave Elizabeth the gift
of her very presence. It is easy to send flowers or a parcel, but to
give the gift of ourselves, to make time to be with somebody, that is
the gift that many people long for but do not receive. Another
point about Mary's gift to Elizabeth is that one should give not
according to one's convenience but according to the needs of the
receiver. It was not convenient for Mary to travel the lonely, dangerous
road from Galilee to the hills of Judea. But Elizabeth needed a helping
hand. She was six months pregnant and could no longer to do many
things. So Mary, as soon as she learned that Elizabeth was six months
pregnant went quickly and stayed with her for about three months, until
she gave birth. Mary gave to Elizabeth what she needed when she needed
it.
Also, Mary's presence enabled Elizabeth to be
filled with the Holy Spirit, and Elizabeth was able to experience the
interior peace and joy that comes from the Holy Spirit. Mary's visit was
an inspiration to Elizabeth. When we visit people, let us try to bring
some inspiration into their lives, let us seek to bring them closer to
God, and let us try to share with them the Spirit of God in us, the
Spirit of consolation, of courage, of peace and joy, just as Mary did
for Elizabeth.
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