Day 10: Elizabeth
Luke 1:41-45 (NIV) 41 “When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfil his promises to her!”
Devotional:
The story of Elizabeth is one of humility, faith, and divine favour. As we read Luke 1:41-45, we witness a profound interaction between two women chosen by God to play pivotal roles in His grand design. Elizabeth, an elder relative of Mary, experiences a miraculous pregnancy in her old age. Her story is a testament to the fact that God's ways are often beyond our understanding and that He uses the most unexpected people for His purposes.
In the passage, when Elizabeth hears Mary's greeting, something extraordinary happens. The baby in her womb, who we know as John the Baptist, leaps for joy. This reaction is more than just a physical response; it signifies the recognition of the coming Messiah, even from within the womb. Elizabeth is then filled with the Holy Spirit, and in a loud voice, she proclaims blessings upon Mary and the child she bears.
The humility of Elizabeth is striking. She wonders why she is so favoured that "the mother of my Lord should come to me." This is a profound statement of faith and recognition of Mary's child as the Lord. Elizabeth, despite her own miraculous circumstances, recognises the greater significance of Mary's child. Her question is not one of doubt but of awe and wonder at the workings of God.
Elizabeth's blessing over Mary, "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfil his promises to her,” is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith. Mary believed in the promise of God, despite the seeming impossibility of her situation. Elizabeth recognises this faith and blesses it.
From this narrative, we learn several vital lessons. Firstly, God often chooses the most unlikely individuals to fulfil His purposes. Elizabeth, an older woman who had been barren, becomes the mother of John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ. Her story encourages us to look beyond our limitations and trust in God's plan for our lives.
Secondly, the story highlights the power of faith. Mary's faith in God's promise made her blessed among women, and Elizabeth's recognition of this faith is a call for us to also believe in the promises of God, even when they seem impossible.
Thirdly, Elizabeth's humility in recognising the work of God is a lesson for us all. She does not boast about her role or become envious of Mary's more significant part in God's plan. Instead, she rejoices in the favour granted to her and acknowledges the greater purpose at play.
As we reflect on Elizabeth's story, let us consider our own lives. Are we open to the workings of God, even when they come in unexpected ways? Do we have the faith to believe in His promises, even when they seem beyond our reach? And do we possess the humility to rejoice in whatever role we are given in God's grand design?
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, I pray that You will show me my role in Your Kingdom. Like Elizabeth, may I find favour in Your eyes so that I will not miss the opportunities to participate in Your work. I pray all this in the mighty name of our everlasting King and Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.
ACTION STEP:
Think of a time when you received favour from someone. How did it make you feel? Reflect on how Elizabeth might have felt to be involved in the birth of the Saviour. Consider the humility and faith she displayed and how you can incorporate these virtues into your life.