In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. (Luke 1:39-40)
After a stressful time in my life, I went to visit an aunt I loved dearly. I knew that she would welcome me and treat me gently when I needed it.
God gave Mary a similar retreat when she needed time to adjust to the change in her life. To become a mother—to deal with morning sickness and all the physical changes that go with pregnancy. To think and pray about the future: Would her parents believe her? Would Joseph? Most terrifying of all, getting used to the idea of raising the Messiah—the very Son of God. No wonder she needed a break!
And so God added this to the angel's message: "And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren" (Luke 1:36). Of all the people on earth, Elizabeth would be able to understand and care for Mary. She would believe her, pray with her, rejoice with her. And Mary wouldn't feel useless—Elizabeth could certainly use a younger woman's help during the last three months of her own pregnancy!
How kind of God to care for both of them in this way, before they even asked! But knowing Jesus, how should we be surprised? No one has ever loved us more—supplying all we needed at the cost of His own life. And He has become our rest.
WE PRAY: Dear Lord, let me find rest in Your love. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* When you need rest, where do you usually find it?
* Tell about a time when God provided for you before you even asked.
* How does God give you rest?
Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Today's Bible Readings: Zechariah 13-14 Revelation 3-4
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