The Visitation recalls the “Canticle of Mary” when she visited her cousin, Elizabeth. Mary declares she is humbled and blessed by God her Savior that the fruit of her womb will be generous and merciful to all generations to come. Everyone in the room recognized the presence of Jesus in their midst.
Zephaniah (3:14-18A) and Isaiah 12: 2-3 “Among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.” Both readings declare the Kingship of Jesus.
The thing that I take from these readings is the awesome power in the name of the Lord. Jesus spoke to Peter and said that if you don’t declare that I am Lord the very rocks would speak out. [Luke 19:40] We should always speak with reverence with the name of Jesus.
The Sisters of Notre Dame at Saint Aloysius Elementary School in West Allis, Wisconsin taught us to bow our heads every time we hear the name of Jesus. I still practice this sign of reverence.
The Visitation was the first time the world knew that the Savior of the World was in our midst. The song “Holy is His Name” by John Michael Talbot puts to music Mary’s reaction to her pregnancy during the Visitation. This song has a personal meaning for my wife, Anna, and me. It was chosen to be played for the Presentation of Gifts at our wedding.
My prayer is that all of us only use the name of the Lord with reverence and respect. Consequently, the Christian belief in the sanctity of life. The next time you see a pregnant woman, praise that holy name of Jesus for the potential that God will bring into the world. We are blessed by that name and it is truly holy.
God Bless
Bob Burford
