Dec. 12, 2012

Elizabeth said “Why do I have this honor that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. Happy is she who believed that the Lord would fulfill the promises he made to her.”  – Luke 1:43-45

Most biblical scholars believe Elizabeth and her husband Zechariah lived in the town of Ein Karem, about 80 miles from the village of Nazareth. Ein Karem is closer to Jerusalem than to Nazareth.

While the journey from Nazareth to Ein Karem would have taken several days, it would have been virtually impossible for Elizabeth to discover Mary’s news before she arrived. Yet as soon as this teenager enters her house, Elizabeth is so excited. She knows Mary is the person carrying the Messiah.

Elizabeth isn’t disappointed Mary received this great honor rather than herself. While Elizabeth has waited and waited for her baby, Mary is in a different situation. Elizabeth is just as excited about Mary’s baby, maybe even more excited, than she is for her own baby.

It is weeks before the arrival of her baby. Elizabeth would have been knee-deep in preparations. She might not have had a lot of extra time. Nonetheless, Elizabeth quickly understands she is to be a mentor to Mary. With years of experience, she could be a source of encouragement, perspective and wisdom for Mary.

We all need an older mentor/guide in our lives, an Elizabeth. This older person understands, guides and affirms us. I’ve had a variety of Elizabeth’s in my life. I’m also at the stage when I need to be an Elizabeth to other people and help them discover God’s purpose for their life. Mentoring blesses the one who is being mentored. It also blesses the one mentoring. While Mary was blessed being in Elizabeth’s home, it is also clear that Elizabeth considers it a great honor for Mary’s presence. That’s why she is the first person to call Jesus, “Lord.”

Lord God – Thank you for the folks who have mentored and guided me. Allow me the maturity and wisdom to know when I can step out and help someone.  Make it clear whom I might mentor. Amen.

Blessings –

Dianne