Light of the WorldSýnishorn

The holidays are full of visits, as friends and family from far and wide stop by or gather to share a meal or a conversation. And when the trip is too far to make, they will send the annual family newsletter, filling everyone in on what they have been up to.

We find Mary in Luke 1:39-45 making a visit of her own. The angel of the Lord had given her the news of her coming son and Messiah but had also shared that her much older cousin, Elizabeth, was experiencing a miracle of her own. She was going to have a son, John, and John would prepare the world to meet the Messiah. Mary packed her things and made her way to Elizabeth for a three-month stay in the hills. As Mary entered the home, surely prepared to tell her cousin everything, it became clear that no family newsletter would be needed. John, even in the womb, knew Jesus was in the room!

John leapt for joy and Elizabeth knew what it meant. She cried out loudly to Mary, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” Elizabeth and John knew their Messiah was in the room and they could not contain their joy.

We are invited to the same recognition this Advent season—to know Jesus is in the room and to respond with joy and blessings. In the busyness of the season, it may be difficult to do. It may require intentional pauses and setting aside “the list” long enough to see where the Messiah is meeting you. John’s spirit, even in the womb, was searching and expecting his Savior. Our spirits can do the same. And, just like Elizabeth, we may be surprised where we find Him!

Question:
Do you know when Jesus is in the room? When Jesus is in the room are you filled with joy?

Application:
Look for Jesus today. Take the time to look up in the midst of the busyness and see those around you. Engage and be present with those in the community who need hope and serve them. In serving, you will find Jesus and joy! ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of Mine, you did it for Me.’