The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- July 2nd
Visitation means, “visit.” From the Archangel Gabriel, the blessed Virgin Mary had learned that her cousin Elizabeth was to become a mother in her old age. At once, then, she started out on the long journey to her cousin’s home. Mary hid the great privilege she herself had just received of becoming God’s mother, but she went to congratulate her dear cousin. She knew, too, that Elizabeth would need her help.
The trip Mary had to make was long and painful and dangerous, but she did not let that stop her from her errand of charity. When she reached her cousin’s house, she was the first to greet Elizabeth. At that moment, God revealed to Elizabeth that Mary had become His mother. “How have I deserved that the Mother of my Lord should come to me?” Elizabeth cried. Hearing this praise, the humble Mary took no pride in it. Instead, she gave all the credit to God, Who had so blessed her.
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior,” she said. “For He has regarded the lowliness of His handmaid, and holy is His Name.”
What graces the Blessed Virgin Mother brought to the home of her cousin! St. John, while still hidden in his mother’s womb, was cleansed of original sin; Zachary was able to speak again, and St. Elizabeth was filled with the gifts of God, the Holy Ghost.
Mary stayed three months at her cousin’s home. With great kindness and love, she helped Elizabeth, doing every little service she could for her.
Just as Elizabeth’s home was filled with graces by Mary’s visit, so will we be blessed if we are devoted to out Heavenly Mother.