HE LEAPED FOR JOY!

Sunday, December 1, 2019

HE LEAPED FOR JOY!

Luke 1:39-42

39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;

40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

           Elizabeth was nearing the end of her seclusion because she could no longer hide the fact of her pregnancy with John. Oh, she was not embarrassed by it, she wanted there to be no doubt about it.

           Now Mary comes for a visit. Her salutation was more than customary greetings. Not only did she announce her own pregnancy – an embarrassment for a girl not yet married – but she included the details of the angelic announcement. Elizabeth now realized that she was part of a double miracle.

           John heard the announcement and strongly reacted to it. The original language indicates that he “skipped” or danced in the womb. What a strong affirmation for pre-born humanity!

           Malachi’s Elijah was on his way and the Messiah was only about three months behind. Redemption’s plan had begun. Glorious days were just ahead.

Lord, help my soul to understand the wonder of your incarnation. Let my heart leap within me for joy. AMEN