Joyfully Expecting!نموونە

Shared joy

“And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!’” (Luke 1:41-42 ESV)

The angel told Mary that her relative Elizabeth was also pregnant. So Mary went to visit her as soon as possible. She was probably eager to share the special news! But before Mary could say anything, Elizabeth already knew about her pregnancy. The Holy Spirit had let her know, and her unborn child leaped for joy.

It must have been a remarkable meeting: elderly Elizabeth and young Mary greeting each other with loud cheers, both with a baby in their wombs, and old Zechariah, who was temporarily unable to speak (because he did not believe the angel's announcement). Despite all their differences, they shared the joyful anticipation of their two babies and all the blessings God would give through these children. Mary stayed with the elderly couple for three months—probably because they couldn't stop talking and singing.

How wonderful it is to share your sadness, your worries, but also your joy with others. How do you experience that? Do you talk to others about your expectations for the future and about God's promises that you are looking forward to? Why or why not?