Daily Gospel Reflection for May 31, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Ann Rock

Today's Gospel: Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Luke 1:39-56

Today we hear the beautiful story of Mary and Elizabeth, known to Catholics as the Visitation. Both women are experiencing miraculous pregnancies; one a Virgin and the other a long barren older woman. They greet each other with love and blessing. What a comfort they must have been to each other at such an extraordinary time. Their mutual faith in God helps them to recognize His miracles in their lives.

I think their meeting provides a glorious template for women to interact with each other in times of confusion and trouble, as well as happiness. Mary undergoes a dangerous and rigorous journey despite her delicate condition. She puts her elder kinswoman first, knowing Elizabeth must need support and encouragement. Through her action, Mary shows us why, indeed, she is blessed among women. She considered Elizabeth’s concerns primary and set an example for all of us.

Elizabeth welcomes Mary with the astonishing acclamation of Mary’s blessedness and destiny. How often do we call out the inspiration, significance, or blessing of a friend or relative? Of course, our friends are not bringing our Lord in the form of the unborn Savior. However, isn’t the support and love we give each other a reflection of the Father’s love? What would the world look like if we affirmed each other in this way?

Mary’s response to Elizabeth’s praise is to exalt God and give thanks for His blessing. Yet another way Mary sets an example for us by showing how to be grateful to God even in the hardest of times. Mary’s canticle acknowledges her own lowliness and exalts the blessing God has bestowed. She returns it all back to Him, her Creator, her Redeemer, and her protector.

What I see in this scripture is the framework for a holy friendship: being there for each other, acknowledging each other, and giving thanks to God for the blessing of friends and relatives.

Ponder:

What would the world look like if we affirmed each other as Mary and Elizabeth did?

Pray:

Dear Lord, please help me to cultivate the holiness of Your Blessed Mother and consider her as an example of perfect love for You.

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Mary and Elizabeth's meeting provides a glorious template for women to interact with each other in times of confusion and trouble, as well as happiness. #dailygospel

Copyright 2021 Ann Rock

Ann Rock is the mother of one grown son and wife of 34 years. She enjoys facilitating Bible study and working on mother’s retreat teams.