Advent, a time of Hope: Daily Morning Prayer and Reflection, December 19th

With Fr Paul

Good morning on this 4th Sunday of Advent. Join Fr Paul for morning prayer.

In the Gospel today it was Mary’s visit to Elizabeth that brought great joy to both Elizabeth and the child in her womb. It is very unlikely that Mary would have visited her at that time if it was not for the extraordinary work of God in their lives. Mary went to Elizabeth, no doubt to help her, but whether planned or not, it was also a wonderful, joyful celebration of God’s presence in their lives in a new and unexpected way. Paying visits can be such an important part of Christmas time, especially visiting those who are alone or those for whom this Christmas will also have a touch of sadness.

Image Credits:

‘The Meeting of Mary and Elisabeth’ by Carl Heinrich Bloch

Mosaic from the facade of the church of the Visitation in Ein Kerem, Jerusalem.
Photo by Fr Lawrence Lew OP

Visitation of Mary to Elisabeth, Giotto