Commemoration of Saint Peter Canisius, Priest, Doctor
5th Day of Christmas Novena
21 December
Gospel Luke 1:39-45
“Mary set out and went as quickly as she could to a town in the hill country of Judah”. This moment in the Gospel reflects the immediacy and generosity of Mary’s response. Upon hearing of Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy, Mary, though herself carrying the weight of her own divine calling, does not linger or hesitate. Instead, she sets out “as quickly as she could,” filled with the desire to share in Elizabeth’s joy and to offer her presence and support. This act reveals a profound heavenly attitude: the readiness to rejoice with others in their blessings and to accompany them in their journeys. Mary’s visit to Elizabeth is not just a familial obligation; it is an act of selfless love and solidarity, a gesture of active participation in the work of God unfolding in Elizabeth’s life. In a world that often emphasises self-centeredness or the rush of individual pursuits, Mary’s example invites us to pause and ask: How readily do we make time to share in the joys of others? Do we set out “as quickly as we can” to bring encouragement, joy, and support to those who need us? Mary’s journey to Elizabeth is also a reminder of the importance of community in faith. Her presence affirms Elizabeth’s experience, just as Elizabeth, through her greeting, confirms Mary’s own divine calling: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” The meeting of these two women becomes a sacred moment, a testament to the power of shared faith and mutual encouragement. Let’s reflect: How can I cultivate the same readiness and generosity as Mary, setting aside my own concerns to share in the joys and needs of others with love and humility?
Don Giorgio