Dec. 10, 2012

Mary got up and hurried to a city in the Judean highlands. She entered Zecharaih’s home and greeted Elizabeth.  – Luke 1:38

What’s next for Mary? She goes and visits her cousin, Elizabeth. The angel had said Elizabeth was also pregnant, another miracle. Beyond child-bearing years, Elizabeth is finally pregnant for the first time. Unsure who will believe her outrageous story, Mary decides that maybe, just maybe, Elizabeth will listen.

Elizabeth doesn’t just live next door. Mary had to join a caravan or arrange for transportation to Elizabeth’s town. It probably took her a few days to get there. I imagine Mary’s thoughts enroute being how Elizabeth will respond to her. Will she get it? Hopefully this trip will be just what Mary needs.

Sometimes we just need someone who might understand and relate to us. We need support and love from that person who is most likely to see the world somewhat through our eyes. Mary knows her teenage friends will think she’s crazy. Her family will think she’s lost it. If there is anyone who might really believe how she got pregnant, it will be cousin Elizabeth. So off Mary goes.

At times, I can relate to people and their situations. But I can also honestly say that I am not always the best person to understand. When people are going through a divorce or separation and the look to me for support, I often think Rick might understand much more than I do. I know he can relate on a deeper level than I can when it is someone who has lost a child. Now if it is someone who has lost a job or had a career change, this is a little more up my alley.

Certainly, no two situations are ever the same. Every case is unique and different. But isn’t it comforting to be with someone who has had a more similar situation? That’s why we often seek these people out when dealing with a tough time. It’s just another way we are God’s messengers.

Lord God – Sometimes the person who can relate to us isn’t very close geographically to us. And sometimes it’s not a person closest in age. Thank you for the people you’ve brought into our lives to help us sort through challenging times. These often unrecognized messengers make a difference. Thanks for loving us this way. Amen.

Blessings –

Dianne