DAY 11: Ponder the Mystery: A Contemplative Advent Journey

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women …blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.”  Luke 1:41-45.

PONDER: Following Gabriel’s greeting and invitation to partner in the birth of God’s Son, Mary quickly made a trip to her relative Elizabeth to share the news and perhaps to find support for the journey ahead. Elizabeth an older, wiser woman responded with confirmation and blessing to Mary and her good news which in turn inspired Mary’s song of praise known as The Magnificat.

RESPOND: As you enter your quiet time and place, acknowledge both the singularity of your spiritual journey as well as the “great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1) that has surrounded you, encouraging you along the way, whose lives and legacy are linked to yours in any way. Consider also the times when you have recognized God present in others, or when you’ve seen the character and traits of God as you have interacted with others. How has it made your spirit “leap within you,” prompting you to thank God and perhaps even bless the person who has helped you see God’s provision?

A BLESSING: May the reality of your God-given life fill you with deep, abiding joy. May your spirit leap at the sound of God dwelling in you and in others. May your soul magnify the glory of God with Us. Amen.