The Feast of the Visitation of Blessed Virgin Mary

Zeph. 3:14-18, Lk. 1:39-56. Today we recall the initiative of Mary when she went to visit her cousin Elizabeth in the hill country of Judea, who was pregnant with a child as told to her by the Archangel Gabriel. We celebrate the joyful expectation of the coming of God’s salvation, the fulfilment of His promise and the affirmation of His love for His people, after a long awaited period of expectation of the light of salvation to the world, that is filled with suffering and darkness. God came into this world not as a mighty conqueror or a triumphant King, rather, as a humble Child born by a humble and simple woman from humble and unknown origin.

Today's Gospel recalls the words of Mary, in the Magnificat, a great song of praise and glorification, a song of great thanksgiving and submission to God. Mary summarised all that God had done for us, showing us His love and His faithfulness, that He will not abandon us when we are in great need. John the Baptist, even as a baby, recognised the Lord and was so joyful, leaping with joy in his mother’s womb. This joy was the same joy that Mary felt and expressed in her song, in the great love and providence which God has given His people. The Lord who loves and provides, has become the source of our joy and happiness. Unfortunately, many of us cannot recognise God’s presence and love for us. We tend to seek those who give us worldly joy and happiness, seeking comfort in money, power, human praise, glorification and pleasures, that distract us from being able to recognise God being present in our midst and lives.

May the Lord help us to resist temptations of worldly joy and make us firm in our faith and hope, knowing that God is always watching over us and protecting us, providing us with all that we need! Amen!! Good morning and have a joyful day!!!