December 17, 2021

Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:39-41

The special visit between Mary and Elizabeth must have been filled to the brim with treasured conversations about the workings of God! Verse 36 tells us that Mary and Elizabeth are related (cousins), which also makes John the Baptist and Jesus cousins. Modern research confirms that babies in utero can hear. At around 4 ½ months of development, a baby can hear his/her mother’s heartbeat. By six months, he/she begins hearing sounds from outside. Elizabeth was at this stage of her pregnancy when Mary arrived to visit. Baby John heard Mary’s greeting, and his leaping in Elizabeth’s womb attests to the miraculous nature of both of these pregnancies! It is fascinating that Elizabeth became filled with the Holy Spirit at this special moment in time. It is a moment to remember and ponder… Her receptive heart is an example for us. Understanding the nearness of our God to us at all times, especially in trying times, is essential for our spiritual health and continual growth. Receptive hearts are enabled to respond to His nearness. I must ask earnestly—every day!—for a tender heart to receive what He desires to teach.

The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart and saves such as have a contrite spirit. Psalm 34:18

You are near, O LORD, and all Your commandments are truth. Psalm 119:151

The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. 145:18