In her visit to Elizabeth in today's gospel, Mary carries within her the very life of God. As a result of Jesus' life, death and resurrection, we too are living vessels of God's life. God - Father, son and Holy Spirit -have made their home in us. Like Mary who, with tender compassion visited her cousin and offered to help her, we are asked to God's tender love and God's life to others.
The message of joy at Christmas is that God is with you, working in you and through you. Do you believe it?
Christmas can be a tense time for us. Can you deliberately act in ways that show compassion and kindness for each person you meet this week - including yourself?
Loving God
Give me the reassurance that I might need in order to truly believe that you are alive within me, loving me and loving others through me. Help me, like Mary, to bring your loving presence to life in my world. Help me take joy in the goodness of others and to see in their actions a confirmation of your presence with me also.