Today’s Gospel reading says that as soon as the Archangel left Mary she set off on a long and uncomfortable journey to help her elderly cousin Elizabeth who was pregnant for the first time. By going to Elizabeth’s aid, Mary — carrying Jesus in her womb — became the first missionary, the first bearer of the Good News. Mary was able to bring incredible joy to both Elizabeth and John the Baptist in her womb because she was bringing Christ to them. The light of Christ came to Elizabeth through Mary. Both women rejoiced. The Gospel of Luke presents Mary’s song of praise, commonly known as the ‘Magnificat’ as Mary rejoices in God who was doing marvels in her life. I know that my loving relationship with the Lord is not meant to be kept to myself; it is a gift to be shared. With all the worldly preparations around us, this Christmas the greatest gift I could bring to someone I love is Christ Jesus. A gift which is truly lasting.

PRAYER: Abba Father, use me as a vessel to take Jesus as a gift to others this Christmas. Amen.