Advent-Elizabeth, Jesus' Earthly Aunt

Shortly after Mary heard the new from the angel about her pregnancy, she went to her cousin Elizabeth's house.

photo courtesy of visualbiblealive.com

Elizabeth, too was pregnant. Her baby was due sooner. Once Elizabeth saw Mary, the baby in her womb leaped. Elizabeth knew at once Mary had been chosen to be the mother of God's Son.

Though many years separated these women, Elizabeth identified with Mary. She, too carried a special son. The one who would prepare the way and would be named John.

For three short months, Mary stayed at Elizabeth's house. They probably talked like giddy first time mom's sharing every sensation. Mary wouldn't have experienced any baby movement during the time, but Elizabeth, being further along, would have. Elizabeth couldn't share any personal birthing tips, but could share what was to come in the next few months of pregnancy.

Once Mary left, Elizabeth finished her pregnancy and gave birth to her son and named him John. Family members thought she was crazy since no close relation also had that name. There were traditions. They went to her husband, Zachariah and asked him what the baby's name should be. He wrote "John" on a tablet. Once he wrote the word, his voice returned...but that is a story for the next post.

The time came when Caesar mandated a census. Elizabeth and Zachariah did not have to travel, as far as we know. Still, Elizabeth had bonded with Mary during the first three months, and knew Mary would have to travel eighty long miles to Bethlehem to register as part of Joseph's family.

photo courtesy of visualbiblealive.com

She remembered her own delivery. It was difficult for an older woman to give birth. Her joints didn't move as easily and the aches intensified. She probably imagined the discomfort of Mary, riding on a donkey in her ninth month of pregnancy. She might have asked her husband, who also was a priest, to say a special prayer for Mary and for the safe delivery of her baby.

Perhaps Elizabeth dreamed a the day when the two cousins would get together, not knowing that one day, her son would baptize Mary's Son.

What thoughts do you have about Aunt Elizabeth?