December 12/Second Thursday of Advent
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice. ~ Luke 1.41-2
The intensity of the bonds of friendship risks attenuation in the iAge. We cancel dates (and even entire relationships) through screens, we let a text message bleat out our concern for another without meaningfully acting on it. Today’s Gospel provides an antidote, allowing us to glimpse the beauty and grace of sheer presence. Upon hearing of her older cousin’s pregnancy (from the angel Gabriel, not from Facebook or an Instagram post!), Mary doesn’t text or email or Snapchat Elizabeth. Although she herself is in the uneasy early stage of pregnancy, she makes the arduous journey to be at her cousin’s side. The warmth of their physical greeting is so profound that it radiates inward to the baby in Elizabeth’s womb, who gives a good hearty kick, no doubt multiplying the women’s joy. In this beautiful vignette, the two women hold center stage, rejoicing in the good news of God’s work in their lives and reflecting on its significance for them and for the world. Their time with each other did not “accomplish” anything. But the comfort and support they provided each other in a difficult moment created a new beginning, giving them the courage to proceed with their lives, trusting in God, buoyed by their mutual bond. Sometimes there is simply no substitute for being there – sitting quietly with a friend in a hospital waiting room, sharing a daily meal with family members, checking in on an elderly friend. The ministry of presence, so powerfully embodied by Mary and Elizabeth, is more life-enriching than any new social media that’s out there.
God, grant me the will to put the “we” before the “i,” so that I may lay aside the devices and desires that distract me and be truly present to others. Amen.
For today’s readings, click here: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121219.cfm
