The Joyful Encounter: Unpacking the Visitation & the Theology of the Womb

December 21, 2025

The Joyful Encounter

Unpacking the Visitation & the Theology of the Womb

Today’s Gospel (Luke 1:39-45) brings us to the threshold of a house in the hill country of Judah. It is a scene of explosive joy—the moment Mary, carrying the Messiah, enters the home of her cousin Elizabeth.

"And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit..." (Luke 1:41)

Whose Words Are They?

Many of us recognize the phrase, "Blessed is the fruit of your womb," as the centerpiece of the Hail Mary. But it’s important to remember where they originated. These aren't just Mary's own reflections; they are the Spirit-filled prophecy of Elizabeth.

• The Recognition: Elizabeth is the first human to acknowledge the Incarnation. Even before Jesus is born, the Spirit reveals His identity to her.
• The Blessing: By calling the "fruit" blessed, Elizabeth identifies that the holiness of Mary comes from the One she carries.

Praying WITH Mary, Not TO Her

There is often a misunderstanding about the nature of Marian devotion. In high-church traditions, the distinction is subtle but vital: we don't pray to Mary as a source of divine power; we pray with her as the "First Disciple."

The Catholic View

Emphasis on Intercession. Catholics ask Mary to "pray for us," much like asking a friend on earth for a favor, believing that as the Mother of God (Theotokos), her prayers carry a unique closeness to Christ.

The Anglican View

Emphasis on Example. While many Anglicans (especially Anglo-Catholics) use the Rosary, the broader tradition views her as the prototype of the Church—the perfect example of how to say "Yes" to God's will.

Reflection for Today

Today, we are invited to join Mary in her journey of service. She didn't stay home to be pampered; she went "in haste" to serve. When we pray alongside her, we aren't looking at a statue—we are looking at a sister in faith who points her finger directly at Jesus and says, "Do whatever He tells you."

---

May the joy of the Visitation fill your heart this Advent season.