Holy Gospel according to Saint Luke 1:39-47
1. Lectio
Read the passage slowly and attentively, paying close attention to each word and detail.
Passage: “And Mary rising up in those days, went into the hill country with haste into a city of Juda. And she entered into the house of Zachary and saluted Elizabeth. And it came to pass that when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the infant leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost. And she cried out with a loud voice and said: Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed art thou that hast believed, because those things shall be accomplished that were spoken to thee by the Lord. And Mary said: My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.”
2. Meditatio
Reflect on the passage, considering what it says about the characters and how it speaks to your own spiritual life.
- Mary’s haste: Consider Mary’s eagerness to serve her cousin Elizabeth. Reflect on her readiness to assist others and how we can emulate her willingness to serve.
- The infant leaping in Elizabeth’s womb: This miraculous event signifies the recognition of Jesus by John the Baptizer even before birth. Reflect on the joy and recognition of Christ’s presence in our lives.
- Elizabeth’s exclamation: Her proclamation acknowledges the blessedness of Mary and Jesus. Reflect on the importance of recognising and honouring the presence of God in others.
- Mary’s faith: Elizabeth praises Mary for her belief in God’s promises. Reflect on the strength of Mary’s faith and consider how we can deepen our trust in God’s word.
- The Magnificat: Mary’s response is one of praise and joy in God. Reflect on the importance of gratitude and praise in our own prayers.
3. Oratio
Respond to the passage with prayer, seeking to connect with God through the text.
Heavenly Father, as I reflect on Mary’s journey to Elizabeth, I am inspired by her willingness to serve and her deep faith in Thy promises. Help me to recognise Christ’s presence in my life and to respond with joy and gratitude. May I, like the Blessed Mother, always magnify Thee and rejoice in Thy salvation. Fill me with Thy Holy Spirit, that I may proclaim Thy greatness and trust in Thy word. Amen.
4. Contemplatio
Spend some time in silent contemplation, resting in God’s presence and allowing the truths of the passage to sink deeply into your heart.
Imagine yourself in the scene, witnessing Mary’s arrival and the joyful exchange between her and Elizabeth. Feel the joy and recognition of Christ’s presence. Let this joy fill your heart and lead you to a deeper relationship with God. Rest in the assurance of His promises and the faithfulness of His word.
5. Actio
Consider how you can apply the insights gained from this passage to your daily life.
- Be ready to serve: Like Mary, be attentive to the needs of others and respond with eagerness and love.
- Recognise Christ’s presence: Look for and acknowledge the presence of Christ in your daily encounters and experiences.
- Strengthen your faith: Spend time in prayer and Scripture to deepen your trust in God’s promises.
- Practice gratitude: Regularly express your gratitude and praise to God for His blessings and His work in your life.
