“Happy is she who believed”

In Miracle on 34th Street we met little Susan Walker, whose mother had told her it was foolish to believe in Santa. But Susan exclaimed: “I believe…I believe… even though it’s silly, I believe.” * Mary traveled 8-10 days on foot to reach Elizabeth, ** apparently the only person she could trust to support her in believing the angel’s “silly” message. And Elizabeth delivered what Mary needed, saying, “Happy is she who believed that the Lord would fulfill the promises he made to her” (verse 45).

• Before Jesus was even born, Elizabeth was the first to call him “Lord”: “Why do I have this honor, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (verse 43) (The gospels also said women were the first witnesses proclaiming Jesus’ resurrection.) How does calling Jesus “Lord” mean giving up the right to live your life any way you please? In what ways has Jesus’ lordship changed your life, and brought a different kind of love and joy into it?
• Pastor Hamilton wrote, “We all need an Elizabeth we can turn to for advice, wisdom, and encouragement. And we’re all called to be an Elizabeth for someone else—to invest in that person and pass on what we’ve learned.” *** As you reflect on this lovely story of support and sharing, remember (and remember to thank) those who have blessed you with love and understanding when you really needed it. And ask, “Who could my caring support help this Advent?”