21 December
Zep 3:14-18
Lk 1:39-45
“Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord?”
Brothers and sisters, the encounter between Mary and Elizabeth in today’s Gospel is a vibrant and awe-inspiring moment. It is a story bursting with joy, connection, and revelation. When Mary greets Elizabeth, her unborn child, John the Baptist, leaps within her, recognising the divine presence of Jesus, still in Mary’s womb. This is not just a simple interaction between cousins — it is a meeting charged with faith and the Holy Spirit. John, even before birth, shows us an unparalleled sensitivity to the presence of the Lord. His joy teaches us to notice God’s subtle, powerful movements in our own lives.
How often do we miss Christ’s presence because we are caught up in our routines or struggles? Much like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we sometimes fail to see Him in the little things — a kind word, a helping hand, or the warmth of a smile. But John’s leap reminds us to wake up, to open our eyes, and to respond with joy whenever we sense God at work, even if it is just a quiet whisper.
Elizabeth’s awe at Mary’s role is striking. “Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord?” she exclaims. This simple phrase says so much. Mary is not just pregnant; she is carrying the Saviour of the world. Elizabeth recognises this and honours her because she understands that Mary’s ‘yes’ to God brought Jesus into the world. The title “mother of my Lord” is intimate and powerful. It reminds us that Jesus is not just a far-off God — He is our Lord, someone who wants a personal relationship with each of us. And Mary, in her faith and obedience, shows us how to become vessels of His grace.
This idea of carrying Christ to others is beautifully mirrored in the way we visit one another during Christmas. I remember last Christmas when a friend of mine, who has been living abroad for many years, came back to visit Singapore with her husband and newborn baby. While her presence seemed simple enough, it brought an indescribable warmth to the Christmas gathering in my home. Sharing meals, laughter, and stories turned that visit into something sacred. It reminded me of how Mary brought not just herself, but the very presence of God to Elizabeth. Our connections, our visits — they can bring Christ’s love to others in ways we might not even realise.
Mary’s visit to Elizabeth was not just a social call — it was a holy encounter. And we, too, are called to be like Mary, carrying Jesus into the world through our actions and attitudes. Advent invites us to slow down, reflect, and prepare our hearts to meet Him. Just as Mary brought comfort and joy to Elizabeth, we can do the same for those we meet — not with grand gestures, but by sharing the love of Christ, simply and sincerely.
(Today’s OXYGEN by Stacey Fernandez)
Prayer: Lord, teach us, like Mary, to carry Christ to others — with love, humility, and devotion. Mary our mother, pray for us that our hearts may always rejoice in Christ’s presence.
Thanksgiving: Heavenly Father, we thank you for Mary, the mother of our Lord, whose faith and courage brought Christ into the world. Thank you for giving us a model of how to say “yes” to your plan for our lives.
OXYGEN 
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