7.1.25 Luke 1:39-45

Prepare

The prophet Samuel said, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening."

Take a moment to be still.

Read – Luke 1:39-45

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”

Reflect

Imagine being Mary. You’ve just received life-altering news, and your first response is to visit Elizabeth, someone who might understand your experience. As you greet her, Elizabeth confirms everything the angel has said, affirming your faith and joy.

Imagine the awe and relief of hearing, “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” She must have been delighted, I would! Especially as what was asked of her was so weird.

When I was 20, I felt God called me to full time ministry. He spoke to me through someone. One month later, I met with a team that I had worked with ministering a year before. I had been their translator. After a few minutes conversation, she asked me, what has God been saying to you lately? I mentioned that a month ago I felt he had called me to be pastor. Her reply was, wow, that’s great! I heard that from God a year ago, but I thought it was best not to tell you as it would mess with your head.

How great is it that God encourages is this way and how amazing that we can encourage others in their calling, purpose, strengths, skills, gifts just as Elizabeth did.

Be

Holy Spirit, we ask that you fill us as you did Elizabeth, giving us the insight and courage to encourage others. Help us to recognize your presence and respond with joy, like Elizabeth and the baby in her womb.

Become

Jesus, help us to trust your promises as Mary did, believing that what you have spoken will come to pass.

May our faith in you deepen so that others see your goodness and blessing through us.

Do

You are the great encourager, may we be encouragers.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “ Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Practice:

Spend time thanking God for the ways He has been faithful in your life.

Mary recognised her purpose, her calling, what she was here for. Spend time reflecting on what he has called you to do? Who has he placed around you to be loved, cared, encouraged and receive God’s message?

Who in your life might need encouragement or affirmation today? How can you share God’s love with them today?

Prayer: God give us the wisdom and courage to encourage people today.