FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT C
HOW DID ELIZABETH KNOW?
LK 1: 39-45
MESSAGE
Many Filipino folk beliefs surround pregnancy, persisting even today despite advances in medical technology like ultrasound. According to elders, a woman’s appearance is said to predict the gender of the baby. If the mother looks fresh and blooming, she is believed to be carrying a girl; if she appears haggard and tired, a boy. A rounded belly supposedly signals a girl, while a pointed one suggests a boy. Clear and flawless skin hints at a girl, whereas darkened neck and armpits predict a boy. Funny, but these predictions, based purely on appearances, are often proven wrong.
Today’s Gospel tells the story of the encounter between Mary, pregnant with Jesus, and her older cousin Elizabeth, who was also expecting. Similar to Filipino customs, Elizabeth notices something different about Mary. Perhaps Mary radiated an invisible but undeniable glow, or a profound joy that filled the air around her. However, Elizabeth does not attempt to guess the gender of Mary’s child; instead, she proclaims His divine status. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth recognizes that Mary is carrying the Savior.
Yet, Mary’s “glow” was more than just physical. It was her concern, compassion, and generosity that revealed the profound grace within her. After receiving the angel’s message, Mary’s immediate desire was to serve others, foreshadowing the life of her Son, Jesus, who would become the ultimate Servant of all. Her role in the divine plan did not lead to pride but drew forth acts of mercy and compassion, just as her Son would embody God’s mercy for the world. Mary’s motherhood did not focus her attention inward; instead, it inspired her to care for others, just as Jesus would dedicate His life to serving humanity.
REFLECT
As Christmas approaches, we turn our thoughts to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Of all those in the Christmas story, she best exemplifies how to prepare for the coming of the Savior. Let us strive to be filled with the Spirit, sharing God’s presence with everyone we encounter, just as Mary did.
