This year I got talked into letting my home be on the “Holiday Home Tour” to help a local children’s center.
I protested, “But my home isn’t that grand,
and I don’t go all out decorating at Christmas!”
They persuaded me that was okay — they were interested in different philosophies about Christmas, and mine could be the value of simplicity.
And so I agreed, explaining on the brochure
that simplicity was okay,
for after all,
the King of kings was born in a manger.
That may be just a very good excuse, but honestly,
when you prayerfully consider what matters most,
a lot can go so that He doesn’t get crowded out.
This Advent we’re going to immerse ourselves in the prayers of Christmas:
Elizabeth’s Spirit-led Prophecy over Mary;
Mary’s Magnificat;
Zechariah’s Song;
Simeon’s Dedication and Prophecy;
and on Christmas Eve: The Angels’ Song of Praise!
This will be a fresh way to stay close to the Lord this Advent
and to experience the wisdom & power we need
to be what He calls us to be in this world.
This week we will consider Elizabeth,
the woman God chose to be the mentor of Mary.
What I see in Elizabeth is surrender. She faced great pain in her life, surrendered to God’s will, and then, was used so mightily of Him to mentor another woman who would experience trials and sorrow from a most mysterious God.
Mary too, learned to simply surrender.
We’ll look at Elizabeth’s journey and prayer this week.
But first, let me tell you a story.
Last week I had the privilege of speaking to widows in Minneapolis, preparing them for the upcoming holiday season — often a particularly hard time for new widows.The ministry that invited me is called “Widow’s Might,” and its co-founders are David Thielman and Ginger Ewing. David is an endearing man who surrendered to what he could not stop thinking about: widows and their need for help. God prepared him for this calling through pain.
David’s mother and father had eight children and had just moved to a new city when David’s father was diagnosed with lung cancer and was gone in six weeks. David was twenty-three, a brand new Christian, and felt called to help his mother. She was untrained in a career and still had young children at home. David kept making the four and a half hour trip to see her and help her. He saw there was really no ministry out there for widows.
Years later his younger sister lost her husband suddenly, and again turned to David. Again, David was pierced with the need of some kind of ministry for widows.
As David drove me from the airport to my hotel, I questioned him on how God led him into this. He said, “I began to wake up every day thinking about what the Scripture said about caring for widows — and why wasn’t anyone doing anything? I couldn’t stop thinking about it — it was the clothes I was wearing.”
I smiled, suspecting what happened next.
He smiled back. “Yes, God impressed on my heart: ‘Why not you?'”
So one morning David got on his knees and surrendered. When he told his wife she was surprised yet supportive. David kept asking God for a plan, but it wasn’t until two years later when he was at a meeting with Ginger Ewing that the pieces began to fall together. Ginger was a financial planner and just “happened” to mention that a large percentage of her clients were widows. David leaned over and said, “We need to talk.”
Together they mapped out a plan for bringing widows together to help each other, and to be inspired by speakers who had walked that lonely road. David told me that sometimes the local church may not be supportive of a leading you have, but if you just do it, you’ll be surprised at how many from the invisible Church will come alongside.
I’ve heard the same kind of thinking from my friend Linda concerning prison ministry. When we surrender to God’s nudging, and just do it, He will provide, if not from the local church, from the invisible Church.
Oh what can happen when we simply surrender to God!
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
2. God promises to give us wisdom when we ask. Sometime today ask Him for wisdom on how you will approach this Advent. Then share what He shows you.
3. Share a time when your surrendered to God’s nudging and what happened as a result.
Monday-Tuesday: The Background Story
4. What do you know about Elizabeth from Luke 1:5-7?
5. Challenge Question: What can you read between the lines, or learn theologically about these two”b” words that describe Elizabeth: blameless & barren?
6. How might Elizabeth’s trust in trial have prepared her to be a mentor to Mary?
Others in Scripture, when faced with barrenness, resorted to polygamy. But Elizabeth and Zechariah chose to surrender to God. I believe that led to their great calling to be the parents to John the Baptist and mentors to Mary.
7. We will study Zechariah more carefully when we look at his prayer, but for now, briefly summarize what happened in Luke 1:8-23.
8. In Luke 1:24-25 what does Elizabeth do (and why, do you think) and how does her heart respond?
9. We will look at Mary more carefully next week, but summarize what happens in Luke 1:26-38.
10. Read Luke 1:39-40
A. Check a Bible map to see how far Mary walked or rode a donkey.
B. What do you think propelled her?
C. What do you think her thoughts were?
Wednesday-Friday: The Prophetic Prayer of Elizabeth
My friend Vicki, who says is a “prodigal daughter” who came home a few years ago, is thrilled at the discoveries she is now making in Scripture. Raised Catholic, she often said the “Hail Mary,” which begins, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.” Vicki was delighted to find this was a God-given prayer of Elizabeth!
Watch this and then comment on if you think it matches Scripture or not.
10. What did you like or not like in the above?
11. Read Luke 1:41-45 (Elizabeth’s prophetic prayer)
A. What happened to Elizabeth when she heard Mary’s greeting? Significance?
B. How did she know Mary was pregnant with the Messiah?
C. How do you think hearing this made Mary feel and why?
D. What does this tell you about God?
E. What does Elizabeth say in verse 43?
Had Elizabeth not been surrendered to God, she could have been jealous of Mary. For she was just carrying John the Baptist, and Mary was carrying the Messiah. But it is my theory that surrender leads to experiencing the love and presence of God, so you can rejoice and not begrudge the blessings God bestows upon on another. Miss Potter is one of my favorite movies — a true story. Beatrix Potter and her friend Millie had decided to be old maids together for life, when Millie’s brother proposes to Beatrix. Watch this scene.
12. What comments do you have on the above? If a sister in Christ is greatly blessed in a field in which you excel or desire to excel, can you rejoice with her? Why or why not?
13. Can you think of a time when your surrendered to God, and then experienced His presence, or joy, or unfolding plan? If so share.
14. Remembering that Elizabeth’s prayer was a prophecy given to her by God, what was God saying to Mary in Elizabeth’s closing sentence? And what does this say to you?
15. When Mary appeared at Elizabeth’s door, do you think Elizabeth sensed a calling from God? If so, why and what?
16. How do you respond to interruptions?
Saturday
17. What is your take-a-way and why?
161 comments
10. Read Luke 1:39-40
A. Check a Bible map to see how far Mary walked or rode a donkey.
It is about 80 miles from Bethlehem to Nazareth.
B. What do you think propelled her?
I think she probably needed a mother figure of some sort, to talk to about her plight. Nothing in the story mentions Mary’s mom, and she might want to confirm the facts of the message Gabriel brought to her. Seeing Elizabeth means she would be able to explain the message to someone who wouldn’t think she was crazy also. They could be a support for each other. Also, it gave her time to get used to the idea and how she would explain it to Joseph and others close to her. Elizabeth could be her alibi that Mary didn’t cheat on Joseph as well.
C. What do you think her thoughts were?
Do do you mean about the travel? The situation, both? I think she was probably really scared (she was really a young girl), and needed someone (Elizabeth) who was older to comfort her.
10. What did you like or not like in the above?
Seems sweet, and yes I think it matches scripture okay. I liked how they held each other at the end. They are both beautiful. Maybe the costuming was too fancy? We’re other really present for this meeting?
11. Read Luke 1:41-45 (Elizabeth’s prophetic prayer)
A. What happened to Elizabeth when she heard Mary’s
greeting? Significance?
The baby in her womb jumped. It had to be strong and significant movement that was in reaction to Mary’s baby in her womb Who was God the Son. We are told back in verse 15 that John would be filled with the Holy Spirit even in his mother’s womb.
There is a lot of significance because he was going to be the forerunner of Jesus preparing the way for Jesus’s ministry.
B. How did she know Mary was pregnant with the Messiah?
I think she knew because she was filled with the Holy Spirit and He revealed it to her. But I also wonder if in knowing her son was to be the forerunner of the Messiah she was anticipating somehow the Messiah would also be born soon and through the power of the HS it suddenly made sense. That is speculation and maybe a stretch but she’d had 5 months of seclusion to think on these things.
C. How do you think hearing this made Mary feel and why?
It had to be a tremendous affirmation for her. And I’m sure she was needing that because up to this point she was pretty much alone dealing with the knowledge of her situation.
D. What does this tell you about God?
Just how very gracious He is to his own and to care for them in the most difficult times. He is a God who is in all the details and he shows up when we need Him.
E. What does Elizabeth say in verse 43?
“Why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? “
I think we don’t understand how strongly the Jews were anticipating the coming of their Messiah. Elizabeth was extremely humbled by the reality of what was happening to her and around her. We are far removed from these events and that ancient culture so we can easily miss many of the nuances involved there.
11. Read Luke 1:41-45 (Elizabeth’s prophetic prayer)
A. What happened to Elizabeth when she heard Mary’s greeting? Significance?
Her baby leaped in her womb for joy and The Holy Spirit filled her. She melted inside for she knew Mary was carrying the Messiah.
B. How did she know Mary was pregnant with the Messiah?
Because she believed what God promised in the fulfillment of the Messiah in prophecy and I believed the Holy Spirit gave her this discernment that Mary was carrying Him.
C. How do you think hearing this made Mary feel and why?
From what I understand Elizabeth shouted for joy when she spoke. I think God’s love and strong presence overwhelmed both of them-at the same time, and they were strengthened together. This scene, to me, is one of the most beautiful in Scripture. Perhaps it represents us too-God’s desire for our relationships-how He meant it to be. Our surrender to Him and awe of Him affects our relationships with one another.
D. What does this tell you about God?
I am getting a new look at this passage for I haven’t thought of pondering these questions before. SO I think what Bev said came from Him and came to mind, and I want to remember it: how Jesus shines through in spite of the World and all the trappings. He just simply cannot be hidden or shut out. If you have a watchful eye at all It seems to me that Jesus shows up in unassuming and humble places. Just like His first coming. God definitely showed up in an unassuming and humble place in Elizabeth and Mary’s encounter!
Another thing that popped to me is the relationship between Elizabeth and Mary. It is the kind of relationship He desires for us. Reminds me of the garden before the Fall where Adam and Eve walked closely with God in surrender. How much more encouraging it is to see Elizabeth and Mary’s surrender in a fallen world with their fallen natures. That His power can melt us and help us to surrender more and more-to help me turn from our/my idols and sin and surrender and trust. Who knows how Mary felt as she made her journey-fear of the unknown, of how she will be treated when everyone finds out, if anyone will believe her. She had to be struggling until God brought Elizabeth to encourage her-and I mean over the moon encourage!! 🙂
Also, Elizabeth and Mary knew the scriptures but so did the Pharisees-the similarity is that they are all sinners. The difference is that Elizabeth and Mary humbled themselves before God surrendering themselves to Him. It wasn’t about them but about God-it is obvious to me that they loved Him and were in awe of Him. He filled them with His Holy Spirit to empower and help them. This is true of those of us who know Him- sealed with His Holy Spirit inside and so we too can by His power surrender like Elizabeth and Mary.
E. What does Elizabeth say in verse 43?
How has it happened to me that the Mother of my Lord would come to me? WOW. Such a reflection of her surrendered heart. How she is in awe of God.
This encourages me to be in awe of the Gospel-never lose awe in God in how He in His beauty, Majesty and Glory wrapped himself in flesh in Mary’s womb, “The Word stern-sentenced to be nine months dumb— Infinity walled in a womb”-Lucy Shaw-to be born in a manger-dirty floor not allowed in any decent place.. giving up all to be heckled, spat on, whipped, humiliated because He wants us-desires to be with us. What has happened to me that my Lord would come to me and pursue me like this?
Love that you quoted that poem of Luci Shaw’s.
Excited about the advent blog. Thank you for your surrender. 💖💖💖
Welcome Cigi– what a fun address — tells us something interesting about you!
13. Surrender to God leading to His presence, joy, or unfolding plan?
So much of life is choosing either surrender or self. There have been times I am more aware of what “I am giving up” and it can be a struggle. Living sacrifices tend to get off the altar. But when I give in to Him, always, always, the reward of His presence with its sense of peace and rightness and the eventual joy more than make up for it. And to know I am a part of His plan is a thrill like no other.
14. God through Elizabeth was saying that believing brings blessing. It isn’t the obeying of law, but the believing and cooperating with the Spirit. The funny thing is that cooperating with the Spirit often looks like obeying the law, and it gets confusing for people. It is in cooperating with the Spirit where I will also find blessing, taking Him at His word and responding to His nudges.
I would appreciate your prayers today as I get together with my college student for the first time, setting up our mentoring relationship.
Slow to jump in this week so I’m not going to post many answers. But I want to say that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this study — and the timing of it for my own application. I’m struck by how God’s plan for our lives is long-term — and by both Zechariah’s and Elizabeth’s responses to God’s continued work in their lives when they were “0ld.” This is resonating because I’m old now 😉 and seeking God’s leading for the next season. This whole passage reinforces that I can trust Him, though I’m probably more like Zechariah in that I wonder how God’s gonna pull this one off.
Dee, when I saw (maybe on Facebook?) that you had spoken at an event for widows, I wished that a ministry like that would have been available for my mom as a 42-yr-old widow. I also remembered how hard she worked to make that first Christmas without my dad special for us — yet I can still remember how hard it was for her, too. I think I processed some of the intro to this study after I saw the photo on Facebook.
Renee — how old were you when your dad died? How hard. Your mother had strength though.
Your comment on Zechariah is so Renee. Love it.
11. Read Luke 1:41-45 (Elizabeth’s prophetic prayer)
A. What happened to Elizabeth when she heard Mary’s greeting? Significance?
She was overcome and the baby jumped inside her.
B. How did she know Mary was pregnant with the Messiah?
She was filled with the Holy Spirit and knew.
C. How do you think hearing this made Mary feel and why?
I’m sure Mary was reassured as to her condition when she experienced Elizabeth’s prayer. She probably felt more confident about her situation.
D. What does this tell you about God?
He is in control; He is omnipotent.
E. What does Elizabeth say in verse 43?
Elizabeth wonders why she has been given the privilege of a visit from Mary.
I forgot to answer the significance part on 11. I suppose that the significance was that that was the “sign” to both women that indeed what was happening was actually happening?
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12. What comments do you have on the above? If a sister in Christ is greatly blessed in a field in which you excel or desire to excel, can you rejoice with her? Why or why not?
That’s a nice video clip. Millie’s heart breaks while Beatrix’s overflows. There’s a lot more than jealousy– betrayal, sorrow, confusion, loss, self-sacrifice. As the middle daughter from a 3-daughter family, I know jealousy and competition pretty well. Nothing was off-limits in my self-assertion as a young person—it was often “me-first” at any cost. Fast-forward to my current 42-yr old life and I have had broken friendships/relationships and lost opportunities due to jealousy. Shameful. I think honesty really helps, both with God and with a few very close friends. Surrendering is good advice. His plans for me are my treasure. But in some situations, I can see jealousy coming a mile away. I hear it in my voice when I say “hi” to certain people, even before I have any real conversation. It’s a struggle to rejoice with a sister in Christ at those times. Sometimes I can’t honestly rejoice until much later after I’ve spent time in repentance and prayer. I try to thank God for his power and remember that He’s given me the mind of Christ-1 Cor. 2:16. Phil 1:20. “It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or death.” Praise God that someday we’ll be free of sin forever!
13. Can you think of a time when your surrendered to God, and then experienced His presence, or joy, or unfolding plan? If so share.
After 15 years of marriage and 3 kids, I surrendered my marriage to God. Mostly I did that for sheer survival because I couldn’t carry it anymore. I found Jesus is a much dearer husband to me. My husband is a believer and works hard in the church and at his job. He’s a good father and a good man. But Jesus is so sweet to me. Trying to force my husband into meeting my needs was too much work and it prevented me from soaking up everything I receive from Jesus, (not to mention the sorrow I caused my kids/husband). I’m so glad I surrendered that broken relationship—because we have a pretty good marriage now, but what I really have is a daily relationship with Jesus and a promise that can never be stolen from me.
14. Remembering that Elizabeth’s prayer was a prophecy given to her by God, what was God saying to Mary in Elizabeth’s closing sentence? And what does this say to you?
“Why is this granted to me” & “The mother of my lord”
Elizabeth’s prophecy of calling Mary “the mother of my lord” is God telling Mary there’s a big job to do. He’s also telling her that nobody else will be able to really share her heart now—it’s going to be a lonely road. Finally, He’s telling her that He knows all about the work, the loneliness, even all the blessings, and He has a plan for all of it. She can trust Him.
This says the same to me, but not with the same job!
15. When Mary appeared at Elizabeth’s door, do you think Elizabeth sensed a calling from God? If so, why and what?
Yes. The leaping, unborn baby would do that. But I think God had prepared Elizabeth’s heart with 5 months of solitude. Focusing on Him and His blessings for 5 months would make His physical presence in her courtyard a very powerful magnet for her sensitized heart.
16. How do you respond to interruptions?
If I’m working, I’m upset by interruptions. But if I’m cleaning the house, interruptions are welcome as good instigators of breaks!
This made me smile — so true: “Trying to force my husband to meet my needs was too much work for me.”
Karen, I appreciate your answer to 13, surrendering your marriage to God. It gives me pause for what I know in my heart is true; however, I confess I still get angry over my husband not meeting my needs, and for unfulfilled longings.
I hear you, Susan. My heart is a spring of selfishness and unmet needs. I know God uses my husband to show me how much I need Him, but I don’t understand why some lessons have no sticking power and others do. There is a level of brokenness and neediness that I haven’t returned to since I surrendered this marriage, but it’s still a fight. I’m grateful for all He’s done for us, but I hope for a lot more. I want to really pray with my husband, for real issues, not just the kids, missionaries, church, etc. I think if Jesus is our shared heartbeat, we will have more intimacy and friendship together. There’s a hint of it now and then, but I think what I want with him may be slow in coming. I think this is what Jesus thinks about me sometimes—“why doesn’t she just tell me what’s on her heart? I want to share it and be with her in all of it.” So why do I keep looking to my husband for this? Logic fails. Praise God for his faithful love! “While we were sinners, Christ died for us.” Praying together, Susan.
12. What comments do you have on the above? If a sister in Christ is greatly blessed in a field in which you excel or desire to excel, can you rejoice with her? Why or why not?
The He clip brought tears. I guess I thought it was so kind of Millie to be so sweet about the news to her friend Beatrix. The things she said to her were very loving. What a true friend!
I am blessed in dance (liturgical) and so is a young friend but in a different way. She is more improv and I am more rehearsed/choreographed. I wish I could be more like her in several ways. She has a beautiful extension, whereas I have short legs. She is taller and I so wish I could be as well; It’s such a better look to your dancing. You put on the music and there she goes! I could be jealous, but we are different people. God made us the way we are and loves us that way. I have to remind myself of that sometimes. Yes, I can rejoice! Her dancing is absolutely beautiful and all off the cuff! How sweet it is.
Beautiful response to long legged dancer!
Laura-d, you post is giving me a kick in the pants to find your dancing lesson in the FB group and either pin it or bring it to the top by commenting on it
Too fun Renee!
There are a few I posted way back when. One or two dancing in my living room and one where I taught you guys the hands/arms to Eagles Wings 😉. One thing my husband has always said about my dancing is that my arms are the most beautiful. Docthere you go! She has the legs andnI have the arms! Lol!Laura,
This was a sweet post from you, enjoying the gifts of your friend!
I went to see a chamber orchestra perform the music was so beautiful but what I remember most was that when one of the musicians was being focused on, the others expressions showed that they were truly, deeply, enjoying the talent of their colleague. I thought of the body of Christ and prayed for my local church, that we could be more like them, with our eyes fixed on glorifying God instead of working how we measure up. It made me weepy.
Love this Chris!
13. Can you think of a time when your surrendered to God, and then experienced His presence, or joy, or unfolding plan? If so share.
I have shared this story often on the blog, but I’m not sure that I shared the God part. My middle son had decided to drop out of school at 17 and take the GED. I was devasted being a teacher. He promised he would take the test immediately, and he did. Prior to me agreeing to let him drop out, I surrendered to God about the situation. What I experienced next was complete peace in my life. I gave the situation over to Him and became free. It was a beautiful thing! I had been the only one holding my son back. When I prayed to God about the situation He told me I needed to let go. I listened and was blessed. Thank you Jesus, for Your comfort.
14. Remembering that Elizabeth’s prayer was a prophecy given to her by God, what was God saying to Mary in Elizabeth’s closing sentence? And what does this say to you?
God is blessing Mary, saying she believed, never wavering, and is being rewarded for that faith. I too, should have childlike faith and will be blessed as well.
11. Read Luke 1:41-45 (Elizabeth’s prophetic prayer)
What happened to Elizabeth when she heard Mary’s greeting? Significance?
She was filled with the Spirit and felt infant John leap within her.
I’ve been thinking about this passage:
“5For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”
The Spirit would have helped Elizabeth stay her mind on God, the baby leaping was a sweet gift, an indication of the supernatural God ordained things that were being ordered by his hand.
B. How did she know Mary was pregnant with the Messiah?
By revelation? I suppose Mary could have written to her before coming. Maybe she did tell her in a letter or by messenger because of this statement? “5And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord”
C. How do you think hearing this made Mary feel and why?
It gives me chills. I imagine she felt very honored and very afraid. Honored because he had been given the task and responsibility of carrying the Messiah, afraid because she was just a girl, when God draws so near we are aware of our inability to stand in his presence.
D. What does this tell you about God?
I am going to think more about this today and pray that God will open my heart to what this says about Him.
I keep processing these women through my own filter, thinking of how both of their sons would die in ways that would seem inexplicable to those who were watching and waiting for God to rescue.
Yes, that is a lot to process through your own filter. 2 Peter surely makes me realize how fleeting this life is and how great our sure hope.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
How David began his ministry to widows, saying, “It was the clothes I was wearing”. I may be interpreting this statement differently than intended, but it makes sense to me that I am equipped, or readied, or uniquely gifted, to serve God and people because of “the clothes I am wearing”. Or, the needs of others that show up on my radar screen, that I pick-up on, that I am sensitive to, are likely noticed because I have experienced the same things.
3. Share a time when you surrendered to God’s nudging and what happened as a result.
This is much too personal to share here, but what I can say is that God prompted me to be mature, to put the needs of someone else before my own, to let Him take what I wanted to hold on to. To speak the words that the other needed to hear, to have the maturity to trust Him with what I could not do anyway.
5. Challenge question: What can you read between the lines, or learn theologically about these two “b” words that describe Elizabeth: blameless & barren?
That her barrenness was not a punishment from God. In fact, treading deep theological waters here, and I’m not an expert, perhaps, as God tells us in His Word that this plan for our salvation was laid before the foundation of the world, so perhaps, too, were all the “players and their parts”….Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth and her son, John…. This was God’s plan for Elizabeth’s life, for it to unfold this way. Like when Jesus’ disciples asked him about why a man was born blind, and who sinned – him, or his parents, and Jesus replied that it wasn’t for that reason, but that God would be glorified.
8. In Luke 1:24-25, what does Elizabeth do (and why, do you think) and how does her heart respond?
Okay, I am reading between the lines here for what was not said, but had to happen. Elizabeth and Zechariah were older; not sure how old, but I wondered, had they stopped having physical relations? After Zechariah had his vision, he went home to his wife. Somehow, he must have communicated to her, perhaps through writing, what he was told. So, they had to “make a baby”, and that required, on her part, that she believed what the angel said. Then, she secluded herself for five months, saying that God had taken away her disgrace among the people. Evidently, she was looked down on, having no children. People probably made assumptions as to the reason why. By secluding herself, instead of immediately telling everyone and letting them see her growing belly for the first five months, I believe her heart was free from any idol of approval or affirmation….it was enough for her what God had done for her; she had no need to justify herself to anyone. She was content during those early months, to let it be between herself and God.
I wish I knew how to copy your answer to 5. It makes me leap up on the inside, wondering where each of our lives fits in the grander scheme of things. I want to know, but would be afraid to at the same time, because I might try to make it happen and mess it up. I look forward to seeing the whole complicated thing explained in heaven!
Susan — this is why you are such a golden mentor on this blog. Every answer gold.
Susan, I love your response to that last question about Elizabeth. “She was content during those early months to let it be between herself & God”.
I got behind on computer again, but have been doing the study.Question 12. If a sister is greatly blessed, can u rejoice with her? My twin sister seems to have had the ideal family life that I have longed for. Happy marriage to a Christian; leading worship together, raising kids as Christians; now most of them are married & have babies… No apparent conflict in their family , or dysfunction. Yes, I LONGED & still long for all those things, & it turned out the opposite for me. But I rejoice for her & just have to trust that God is working & will breakthough the brokenness & dysfunction in my own family. The grace of God has covered us, but oh how I still need setting free from co-dependent ways. God is really helping me to see this afresh after our Thanksgiving together . I need to release my kids & release my need to manage things & prevent conflicts. Would really appreciate prayer for this, & to be surrendered to the Lord no matter what.
13. Surrendering now to the Lord; all the future unknowns & unmet longings, & looking to Him with alert expectation for His unfolding plan. Lord, help me to keep my hands off & to trust YOU!
Jenny — I can only imagine what is like to have a twin that has what you have longed to have. But your attitude is good and I pray with you for your request.
12. What comments do you have on the above? If a sister in Christ is greatly blessed in a field in which you excel or desire to excel, can you rejoice with her? Why or why not?
“Leave me being happy knowing that two people I love are happy.” That comment stood out to me. Millie’s love for Beatrix was a selfless love. A real and selfless love always overcomes self interest. It is the picture of Christlike love. I think of the love I have for my only sister. I always want her own best good and she does for me as well. The most beautiful thing in our relationship is that we are sisters in Christ too. She is 3 years older than I am but excels me in many ways that really matter. Rejoicing with her always brings me great joy. She is humble in spirit and reflects Christ so well. It makes her easy to love. I am blessed.
13. Can you think of a time when your surrendered to God, and then experienced His presence, or joy, or unfolding plan? If so share.
Over the years I have slowly learned that if I can stop trying to control my life and just let God lead even in the simple things of my day that God brings quiet and order to my heart. As I try more and more to lay down my agendas and surrender the events of my life to Him He often surprises me with a better way or even unplanned blessings. My oldest daughter lives here in our small town and works full time. I had been feeling like I never get to have time alone with her. Yesterday she invited me to go out of town and attend a school speech meet and then spend the rest of the day shopping. We had great windshield time together (an advantage of living in the middle of nowhere (-:) God planned my day, gave a desire of my heart and it was a joy.
14. Remembering that Elizabeth’s prayer was a prophecy given to her by God, what was God saying to Mary in Elizabeth’s closing sentence? And what does this say to you?
That is such an important verse with insight to that fact Mary believed God’s messenger Gabriel and surrendered to His plan for her life not doubting that He could and would do what He said. Elizabeth saw Mary’s faith and the blessing that was upon her life. God rewards faith.
For so many years I had doubt in my life that hampered my relationship to God as my Father. When He confronted me (gently) and I confessed it to Him I have since enjoyed a much richer relationship.
15. When Mary appeared at Elizabeth’s door, do you think Elizabeth sensed a calling from God? If so, why and what?
Yes she had to have by the presence of the Holy Spirit indwelling her and by realizing the magnitude of the events taking place in her own life and in Mary’s as well. The prophecies that had been announced to them and as their pregnancies progressed they very personally were feeling the fulfillment of them. I can only imagine the intimate discussions they had together in those few months before Mary went back home. I think of the deep and meaningful conversations and times of prayer I have had with my own sister over the years and how precious those times were and still are.
16. How do you respond to interruptions?
Again age and experience are helping me to improve. But initially I always seem to take pause for at least a moment or two leaning negatively but then adjusting for it. But honestly as I think about it what and who brings that interruption affects me accordingly. If my sister showed up on my doorstep this morning unannounced I would drop all my plans for the day and give her first place because of my love for her. We live some distance apart and don’t see each other on a regular basis. I would even welcome an interruption from her.
6. How might Elizabeth’s trust in trial have prepared her to be a mentor to Mary?
She was proof that nothing is impossible for God! But she also had endured the pity and scorn of others. I just mentioned this in my #5,in Luke 1:25, she says “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.” Mary would face the sneers of others and be the subject of gossip fo her pregnancy out of wedlock. Elizabeth knew how that felt and could encourage her through it. Also, being 6 months ahead in her own miraculous pregnancy, she would be able to guide young Mary well and empathize with her through the trials of pregnancy.
7. We will study Zechariah more carefully when we look at his prayer, but for now, briefly summarize what happened in Luke 1:8-23.
Zechariah was fulfilling his priestly duties in the sanctuary and an angel appears to him–frightening him. The angel told him not to be afraid, and that his prayers had been answered, his wife Elizabeth was pregnant with a son, who has a high calling assigned to him by God, and he will be born, filled with the Holy Spirit. But Zechariah is doubtful and for his lack of faith, the angel commands that he will be unable to speak until the baby is born. Re-reading this passage just now, I am struck again at how powerful this is “he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb”! I am also sobered by the severity of the discipline for Zechariah’s lack of faith.
15. When Mary showed up at Elizabeth’s door, E did feel a calling from God, and we know it because E says so. She must have been in wonder at the words coming out of her, and the child’s reaction within her. When God moves like that, it seems like people describe it as a ‘knowing’, a certainty. Elizabeth had to have gotten that.
16. I don’t usually respond to interruptions very well. Most of the time I am put out about it. At work I accept it because it is part of being a nurse. But outside of that role, I act like what I am doing is the most important thing I’ve ever done. Which is ridiculous. Especially since I am rarely doing anything remotely important. I am trying to reform, by God’s help.
8. In Luke 1:24-25, what does Elizabeth do (and why, do you think) and how does her heart respond?
This is interesting to me–I can’t imagine wanting to be away from my husband during that time, but maybe if he couldn’t talk I’d feel like it was better just to have some alone time! That would have been too hard for me to not have my husband able to process with me! But I also wonder if, after the way she had been looked at in their community, she wanted to just be alone with the Lord and not hear everyone’s comments about her pregnancy. It was such a tremendous and personal gift, maybe she wanted to treasure it alone in her heart without everyone’s commentary–that I can relate to. Then her response–of what the Lord had done for her in front of everyone–such a heart of gratitude and humility.
Lizzy, Just thinking about what you wrote and reading the passage again. I wondered what “hidden” even means, if it meant being hidden from Zechariah, too?? I agree that it was a gift to be hidden from the people who had reproached her in the first place. They probably could be very mean now and maybe even cause her to doubt her own pregnancy. God is protecting her through her hiding — and very literally taking away her reproach during that time. It’s a lot more difficult to doubt someone’s pregnancy in the third trimester than in the first week 🙂 Maybe he even was protecting her with Zechariah’s muteness because they couldn’t process his doubt??
Also, I think some of the definitions/function/structure of marriage, as well as male/female roles, were different then than now (less focus on emotional fulfillment & communication) — but that’s more of an academic perspective 🙂
Renee–I SO love it when you and your wise thoughts are here! You’re right–hidden is not necessarily away from her husband–I had read the passage in the MSG after the ESV & it said “She went off by herself for five months, relishing her pregnancy” so that’s what gave me that picture, but still–not necessarily away from him, and you’re right–those relationships were quite different then! I love though how, as you said, God protected her in the hiding. There is a sweetness to me too, to the alone-ness, however alone that meant, just a few days ago I was thinking it might be nice to live in a monastery, for just like a day?! Just the quiet–sounds so good!
Lizzy, when you find that monastery, let me know!! The one around here closed. (Actually, I have googled “spiritual retreat centers” or similar stuff and found some that I might check out — and I even live alone 🙂 )
I sometimes joke about “going to get the bread…” to my husband, meaning he will be stuck with the crazy home life and I will be on vaycay! Yes, Renee, there are spiritual retreats, and even places you go to be alone and take an oath to not talk for three days. Didn’t Dee do one of those before? I think I would end up talking to myself!
Interesting thoughts on hidden and differences in marriages, Renee.
12. What comments do you have on the above?
At first, I laughed and then I enjoyed the rest of the interaction and their love for each other. Also, thought I should watch the movie.
If a sister in Christ is greatly blessed in a field in which you excel or desire to excel, can you rejoice with her? Sometimes!!
Why or why not? I can rejoice with her if it’s someone I love and really want the best for. In the clip above, Beatrix was NICE. That helps a lot. I have a more difficult time if the person is a jerk! So, what that says about me is that I’m not always loving well, i.e., unconditionally. When I have my focus on Christ and how he loved me, it’s possible to rejoice with someone even when they’re being a pain. So, I guess I CAN rejoice, but that’s not always my first reaction. I think it might be more common for me to not even notice than to get jealous or annoyed though (which doesn’t build up the body of Christ either)
13. Can you think of a time when your surrendered to God, and then experienced His presence, or joy, or unfolding plan? If so share.
I’m in this process right now — related to moving delays and health — and I’m becoming more relieved and excited about God’s unfolding plan, even though I don’t know the details.
14. Remembering that Elizabeth’s prayer was a prophecy given to her by God, what was God saying to Mary in Elizabeth’s closing sentence?
“And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”
So, I reread what was spoken to her from the Lord: Mary would give birth to the Son of God, a King that will reign forever. AND that Elizabeth, who was OLD, already was 6 mos pregnant. That is, God can do the impossible.
And what does this say to you?
1) Just as Mary was blessed by believing she will give birth to the Son of God, the King of Kings, I also am blessed by believing the promise of Jesus, who he is, what he has done and will do for me, others, the earth and that God can do the impossible.
2) God sometimes gives signs that he is doing (present tense) the impossible. He’s telling me to watch for and rejoice in those promises as they are fulfilled. By acknowledging His hand in areas I can see, I also have hope in areas that seem pretty dark.
Additional, kinda related stuff: When I’m in the car, I sometimes listen to a Catholic radio station. I agree with much of it because it is common to all Christian perspectives. But I am particularly intrigued with areas in which I have been taught differently. I am trying to understand rather than simply make a judgment without having all the info. So, I have been thinking about Mary (and purgatory and church tradition). My 2 cents after very limited listening and reflection on (former areas of disagreement): still disagree with some areas; with some areas: could be interpreted that way — whatever; other: I think they’re right.
You make me laugh and think.
Something Greg Scharf told me has always resonated with me about Mary. He feel Catholic do have a strong sense of the holiness of God, stronger than many Protestants, and their masses and sanctuaries reflect that. But they feel He is so holy they cannot go directly to Him so go through Mary. Makes sense to me. I do feel believe in purgatory shows they have lost their grasp on grace.
15. When Mary appeared at Elizabeth’s door, do you think Elizabeth sensed a calling from God? yes
If so, why and what?
why? Luke 1:15 says that John “will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.” The Holy Spirit’s indwelling of John was bound to have impacted Elizabeth, too. And during 5 mos in hiding, she likely would have sensed A LOT.
what? I have no idea 🙂 except that “this is it” and “something is about to happen.” I don’t even know if she would have sensed more specifically than that God is fulfilling his promise in a big way.
16. How do you respond to interruptions? Oh dear, did somebody say “squirrel?” I LIKE them; that’s why I don’t get much done. EXCEPT when I am VERY immersed in something: then I barely notice potential interruptions. It does take awhile for me to focus, but when I do focus I don’t notice that I am hungry, when my phone rings, even when I am in (mild) pain. Case in point: Cell phone rang in another room when I was reading Luke. I barely noticed it and forgot about it until I now when I am at the end of this question and concentrating less. I also can no longer ignore that I took a diuretic this morning — but when I am concentrating, it takes quite a bit for me even to notice that 😀 I’m kinda split: I either like interruptions or they go right over my head and body. I have been told that this isn’t healthy physically or emotionally, but changing this isn’t too high priority for me right now.
17. Take-away: Luke 1:45 “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” I’m reflecting on peace stemming from surrender to God’s “interruptions.” He can and does do the impossible.
AND Luke 1:37 “For no word from God will ever fail.” This takes the focus from MY surrender to WHO GOD is — and leads to worship — and jumping ahead to the Magnificat.
Also, I’m very aware that not all interruptions are from God 🙂 I’m suspecting that worshiping him more may prevent me from chasing every interruption. This could be a good Advent experiment!!
Oh, dear! I am so behind and afraid I missed a lot. Sisters, your entries here are so heartwarming.
12. What comments do you have on the above? If a sister in Christ is greatly blessed in a field in which you excel or desire to excel, can you rejoice with her? Why or why not?
Why am I crying watching this movie clip? Dee, I have never seen the movie, Miss Potter. What special friendship Millie and Beatrix have! I have at least one Millie in my life of which I am grateful for.
After a vocal cord condition, I have never ever been able to reach my normal soprano voice anymore. I struggled awhile about this as I love to sing! As the years go by, I have come to a point of acceptance. I enjoy listening to vocalists now instead of begrudging them or my plight. Once in a while I missed those days but thankful for others including my sisters in Christ who can sing those high notes. J
15. When Mary appeared at Elizabeth’s door, do you think Elizabeth sensed a calling from God? If so, why and what?
Probably, because they most likely didn’t see each other very often and she would have been surprised. She also may have realized how important the news was when told. It seems funny that they would be pregnant at the same time. That would be a clue too. She might realize that God was expecting her to be a mentor to Mary.
16. How do you respond to interruptions?
wow…from my family, not very well 😔. I get upset. In my older age I am better though. From extended family I am very willing to stop and listen or do if they need me to. I even go out of my way to help them at times.
13. Can you think of a time when your surrendered to God, and then experienced His presence, or joy, or unfolding plan? If so share.
Almost 32 some years ago, I met Richard. When we started dating, he was very clear about where a friendship such as ours can lead to. He also told me that he is committed to staying single while he was with the Navigators as a missionary which was 3 years! Oh, darn-I told myself. OK, Lord. Is this the man I am supposed to marry or should I just forget it? LOL Three years to wait for something that may not even happen?
And yet, there was a point of surrender and experiencing His peace that no matter what, He has my best in mind. Those three years I believe were preparatory time for what I would call a ministry partnership right now that has withstood the challenges of a cross cultural marriage, health, job and extended family and church related issues.
oh Bing! I LOVE this story!
Me too!!
Take-away:
Actually, my take-away is about joining an online Bible study. It’s been fun to read everyone’s posts this week and feel really welcomed. I think about this Bible Study more and more during the day and am grateful to all of you. Mary and Elizabeth feel like they’re real and living when studied in this online format with real people. I’ve been blessed. Thank you all! Looking forward to next week! Thank you, Dee.
So glad you are with us Karen!
My take away – unlike me neither Elizabeth or Mary said “ what about me ? what about what I wanted ?”
Both women said “ whatever you ask Lord. “ and He wasn’t asking for easy things . Yet they praise Him . Even in their human emotions that they had to have had , they praise Him and give Him their obedience.
My other take away is that in Jesus birth that we gain a Savior . The whole Gospel story is that He came for us . Such Love ! This morning as I was thinking about that I thought about God . That He no longer had Jesus with Him in Heaven, how He gave up His only Son to such a broken people! Not to a great group of people that would know Him in His majesty and treat Him accordingly but sending Him to a brutal death . I am amazed at His love for us , that He would do this for me .
I guess my hope would be that I would ponder this more in my heart , like Mary and Elizabeth.
I’m coming Inlate to this Advent season….but I do want to savor this time before celebrating Christmas Day.
Dee, I think this question is so foundational in any season…and I think it’s one of the richest questions you ask:
5. Challenge Question: What can you read between the lines, or learn theologically about these two”b” words that describe Elizabeth: blameless & barren?
I can read A LOT between the lines in this situation. God’s goodness and blessings in our lives are not based on our good works…and not all gifts are wrapped up in pretty packaging. Elizabeth and Zechariah were blamesless…but not perfect….they were barren but only in the physical sense. Two important thoughts always come to me when I revisit this story. 1. God is much more concerned about our obedience, our trust and our attitude towards Him rather than any good practice or good act. He wants our heart to always be bent towards Him. 2. God does what ONLY He can do when we take ourselves out of the equation. Barrenness or Fruitfulness — either is dependent on the movement of God in our lives….we have absolutely nothing to do with it! Barrenness is not a curse, just as singleness is not a curse for me – a woman now in her 50’s. God can work miracles within any circumstance. Barrenness for Elizabeth and Zechariah was the avenue that God chose to bring into the world the Forerunner of Christ Jesus. He chose this path because there could be no other explanation other than it being an act directly poured out of the hand of God. So…Elizabeth’s barrenness was not a curse —it was not a reflection of how blameless and worthy they were of receiving God’s blessing of children… it was the PLATFORM in which God used to bring about one of his greatest miracles. It was HIS WAY of preparing the world for its Savior…..and it was the way of preparing Elizabeth for becoming the mentor Mary was going to need…and soon!
I really enjoyed this question — and it’s a good story to review any time you don’t think God is concerned about your circumstances — He is — and He is always working behind the scenes developing a “who but God” moment in your life…at any age..in any season…within any circumstance.
Oh Christy — I’m ecstatic to see you here! And I’m so sorry I didn’t see it to approve til now — because I’d love everyone to see it. I’m going to reprint it for this week’s blog.