Sometimes women’s conversations can strike a spark. Or in this case, a conflagration. As scripture scholar Elizabeth Johnson points out, this meeting and outpouring occurs in Elizabeth’s home, traditional female domestic space. Zechariah, the only man around, is mute. “Such quieting of the male voice is highly unusual in scripture.” And in the hush, two pregnant prophets call out a message that will echo for generations.
Both Mary and Elizabeth lived under Roman oppression, but they knew that no matter how corrupt or cruel the state was, the last word is always God’s. God’s cherishing energy endures in a long line from their great-grandmothers to their great-great-grandchildren, us. God had been faithful to their people, who didn’t always deserve it, and God’s nature hadn’t changed. The brutality of the Roman Empire had conquered the known world, but their power would fade. Their soldiers would kill Mary’s son, but he would rise, offering hope and proof that violent bullies didn’t have the final say.
Human hope clings to our plans, but divine hope means immersion in God’s plan. Mary didn’t have a script in advance; didn’t know how her story would end. She simply did what we all must—walk one step at a time into mystery, trustfully.
It would be natural for the women to complain—both are most inconveniently expecting—instead, they praise. In contrast to her husband’s confused questioning, Elizabeth, clearly attuned to her own blessing, can recognize the grace in Mary. Mary responds with a song of joy and social upheaval. The God of the Impossible will feed the starving, overturn the powerful, and remember the promise of mercy. Both women rejoice in this crazy kettle of fish—as should we.
Just as there are annunciations in every life, so too visitations: making a new friend, appreciating the long arc in the life of a friend from high school; discovering a new author or finding new insights on one we’ve always liked; meeting kindness in its many modes; savoring the fresh start of spring; welcoming a vista or activity never before experienced. The God of surprises hasn’t changed, and continues to flood us with the joy of the unexpected.
Kathy Coffey 