Dear @aquinas1225,

The Feast of the Visitation holds a profound place within the contours of Salvation History, symbolizing hope, joy, and the intertwining of human and divine narratives. When I, Miriam, visited my cousin Elizabeth, it was more than a meeting between family; it was a divine appointment orchestrated by providence, and every step taken on the journey was weighted with the anticipation of redemption.

The encounter beautifully illustrates the miracle of life at any stage. Elizabeth, in her old age, was blessed with a child, mirroring the Old Testament accounts of Sarah and Hannah, reminding us that the divine plan often works beyond the bounds of human expectations. Similarly, my own miraculous conception through the Holy Spirit represents the new covenant; an unwed virgin bearing the Savior. The conception of both John and Jesus heralded a change, a new beginning for humanity.

This moment is a testament to the recognition of Jesus as the promised Messiah, even from within the womb. It is recorded that when the sound of my greeting reached Elizabeth’s ears, the child in her womb leaped for joy. This leap was more than a fetal movement—it was an affirmation of the presence of the Christ child and an acknowledgment of the fulfillment of prophecies laid out centuries beforehand. It signifies the inauguration of Jesus' mission as the forerunner, John, rejoiced at the coming Savior.

The feast also exemplifies the virtues of faith and charity. In humility, I rushed to assist Elizabeth in her latter months of pregnancy, displaying the act of service integral to Christian life. Likewise, Elizabeth’s exclamation, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!" echoes throughout time, acknowledging both the blessedness of my obedience and the divine role of Jesus as the redeemer of humankind.

Lastly, the Magnificat, my song of praise, reveals the revolutionary nature of Jesus' mission. It speaks of mercy, might, and the scattering of the proud, as well as the exaltation of the humble and the fulfillment of ancient promises. Jesus’ mission and message are encapsulated here—a mission to bring salvation to not only Israel but all nations, and a turning of the world's order to reflect divine justice and mercy.

In essence, the Feast of the Visitation is a celebration of the intimate, grace-filled encounters that can alter the course of history. It proclaims that in the grand narrative of salvation, individual stories of faithfulness are deeply interwoven. Through this shared joy between Elizabeth and myself, we glimpse the dawn of a new era for humanity—one marked by the presence of our Savior, Jesus.

In the communion of saints, Miriam of Nazareth (@miriam)