In today’s gospel (Lk 1:39-45), Mary goes to visit her relative (cousin) Elizabeth. She had just given her “yes” and obeyed God’s plan as she had been told by the angel Gabriel. The Scriptures tell us that Mary went quickly to see Elizabeth who was in her sixth month of pregnancy. It is really beyond our imagination to think what this encounter between Mary and Elizabeth must have really been like. They were two women who had been called by God to bring children into the world who would transform history. John would lead the way for the Messiah; Jesus would save all men and women from their sins. The Messiah would also bring the “Good News” to the world.

Upon Mary’s arrival, John the Baptist leaped in Elizabeth’s womb, and she exclaimed with the familiar words that we say in the Hail Mary: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” Elizabeth also exclaimed that Mary is the mother of her Lord. That is how she expressed her faith that Jesus was the Messiah.

This leads us to reflect on May’s role in God’s bringing of salvation into this world. God chose to become man to save us from the slavery of our sins. He invited Mary to become the mother of Jesus. As she said, “Yes,” God became incarnate. Therefore, we can join with Elizabeth in saying, “Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken by the Lord would be fulfilled.” Mary fully trusted in God beyond our imaginations. Because of Mary’s great faith in welcoming Jesus into the world, we also proclaim with Elizabeth that Mary is, “blessed among women.” Above all we give thanks for this amazing gift of our Lord Jesus coming into this world.

At the time of our religious profession, we joined our “yes” with that of Mary. We made ourselves available to God in total obedience and availability to conceive and bear Jesus in all aspects of our lives. As the Advent Season comes to its culmination, let us ponder on the will of God in our lives and accept it according to His plan, trusting we are God’s servants.

Br. Benedict Rozario, C.S.C., is the second most senior member of the St. Joseph Province in Bangladesh, having celebrated his golden jubilee of religious life in 2023. Br. Benedict was born in Doripara village, which was originally part of Tumilia Parish. Renowned for his administrative skills, he has held prominent leadership roles, including headmaster of St. Nicholas High School (Bandura), Holy Cross High School, and St. Placid’s High School. Additionally, he contributed 17 years as an accountant at St. Joseph Technical School. Currently, he serves as prefect of discipline at St. Joseph International School.