I have never been in the presence of anyone considered famous, so I am not sure how I would react. My guess is I would be bursting with excitement, yet I would not say a word. Being around people I really respect or admire can cause me to get a little tongue-tied. I have, however, seen the reactions of people who suddenly meet a famous actor or athlete. The excitement and joy flows out of them as they are in awe of the person standing before them. They do not quite know what to do with themselves, and my guess is Elizabeth felt some of this when visited by Mary, her niece.

After her visit from the angel, Mary quickly went to Judah to visit her Aunt Elizabeth, who was also with child. Mary entered the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth and called out a greeting.

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:42-43) 

As these two women met together, joy filled the air. Though both were highly favored by God, Elizabeth was fully aware of the greater blessing she was experiencing through Mary’s visit. Mary was blessed to be carrying the Son of God, and Elizabeth recognized that she was in the presence of the long-awaited Messiah. Just to stand in the presence of this unborn child put her in awe. The Messiah had come.

Yes, the Messiah has come! Jesus was born to be the Savior of the world, to be my Savior! When I think through this, the same question fills my mind. “Why am I so blessed?” I have done nothing to deserve the mercy and love God extended to me when His only Son humbly came to this earth to die. Jesus not only paid the penalty for sinners, but He also rose from the dead three days later. With His victory over sin and death, eternal life is offered to all who trust Him as their Savior. Unworthy? Yes, but abundantly blessed with the assurance of God’s steadfast love, forgiveness and grace. My heart overflows with joy!