THE PROMPT VISIT

(Reflection on Mary Visitation)

Today we recall and celebrate Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth. This visit is more than a momentary historical encounter. It has become a sort of ‘showcasing’ of Mary’s maternal care; an exhibition of her character as the lowly handmaid, who, in total submission to God, responds promptly to the will of God. The beauty and joy of this encounter is ever alive every 31^st of May as we recall her enduring prophecy: “All generations shall call me blessed” (Lk 1:48).

The Greeting

“In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth” (Lk 1:39). This was an energy-packed visit: running the distance, climbing the hills! We could imagine her gasping but not exhausted because her supply of strength cannot run dry! Her greetings broke the silence and loneliness of the elderly couple’s home. This was no common greeting! While Mary greeted as the lowly handmaid, Elizabeth heard the voice of the Mother of God; Baby John the Baptist leapt for joy! And the Holy Spirit took charge of Elizabeth as she prophesied: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the Mother of my Lord should come to me?”

Thus, Elizabeth joyfully welcomed Mary with sublime praises. The warmth of their embrace has never cooled...It is still being felt as Mary’s Motherly arm embraces us today.

Mary’s Response

“And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour...” In her humble nature, She did not claim the praises to herself. Instead, she transferred all praises to God. Self admiration is a trap only a few can escape. From the Magnificat, it is obvious that her heart was fully set on God, His mighty deeds, His Holiness and generous love. She meditated on God’s for the starving poor and the fulfilment of God’s covenant with Abraham and hid descendants forever.

Mary’s response was not centred on herself or Elizabeth, but on God and His mighty deeds. This joyful outburst shows indeed that Mary is Mother of God!

Mary Stayed with Her

“Mary stayed with her for about three months and then went home” (Lk 1:56). We recall that Angel told her that Elizabeth was in her 6^th month (Lk 1:36). This implies that Mary stayed with her till she gave birth. The habitual visitation of Mary, the Mother of my Lord, is prompt but never brief! The grace of God cannot come late! So She who is full of grace intervenes promptly, and supplies the grace in full; she intercedes till success is assured. Mary will not leave until our salvation is achieved.

 

Fr Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,

Abule-Oshun, Lagos.

Friday May 31^st, 2019.

Feast of Visitation of Mary.