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We remember this Feast every time we say the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary. It recalls the time when Mary, pregnant with Jesus, went to visit her cousin Elizabeth, pregnant with John the Baptist. As is fitting, the younger woman goes to meet the older but, on the other hand, the younger woman in this case is God's own Mother. God's own Son rests within her body.
The spirit of humility and service is revealed in Jesus even before He is born. The King of Kings has come to serve and not to be served. He comes in service to John and his mother, though John is not worthy to undo the laces of Jesus' sandals. Jesus' Mother shares this same spirit. In response to Elizabeth's blessing on "the mother of my Lord", Mary sings her beautiful hymn of praise - the Magnificat. She recognizes her status as a young village girl but also acknowledges that through her God is going to do wonderful things.
Dear Mary, our Mother, teach us that in submitting ourselves totally to Jesus and His way we find the path to true greatness and, at the same time, open up to others an experience of God's love.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That allowing himself to be enlightened and guided by the Holy Spirit, every Christian may answer enthusiastically and faithfully to the universal call to sanctity.
Elaboration
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