The Visitation

Today we're going to learn about a very special visit called 'The Visitation.' This happened when Mary, the mother of Jesus, went to visit her cousin Elizabeth. Let me tell you this beautiful story! After the angel Gabriel told Mary she would have baby Jesus, Mary learned that her older cousin Elizabeth was also going to have a baby. Mary was so excited! She decided to travel far away to visit Elizabeth and help her. Can anyone tell me what you do when you want to help someone in your family? When Mary arrived at Elizabeth's house, something amazing happened! As soon as Elizabeth heard Mary's voice, the baby in Elizabeth's belly jumped with joy! Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and said in a loud, happy voice: 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!' Elizabeth knew that Mary was carrying Jesus, the Son of God. Then Mary sang a beautiful song of praise to God, thanking Him for all His blessings. We call this song the Magnificat, and we still sing it in our Maronite Church today during prayers. Mary stayed with Elizabeth for three months, helping her and preparing for their babies to be born. What a wonderful example of love and service! Can you think of ways we can help others in our families like Mary helped Elizabeth? Elizabeth's baby would grow up to be John the Baptist, who would prepare the way for Jesus. Even before they were born, John recognized Jesus and jumped for joy! The lesson we learn from the Visitation is that we should always be ready to help others with love and joy, just like Mary helped Elizabeth. When we serve others, we serve God.