1. A trip to see Elizabeth (39-41)

Mary realized that she was pregnant by the Holy Spirit (35). She must have felt terribly alone. To whom could she turn? She could have sought human sympathy from Joseph or her parents or some friend, but she remembered the angel's message and decided to go to Elizabeth, her relative who lived in Judea. God had done great work in Elizabeth. Mary sought spiritual encouragement rather than human sympathy.

2. The baby in my womb leaped for joy (42-45)

When Mary arrived at the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth in the hill country of Judea, Elizabeth greeted her joyfully. She didn't need to be told what had happened. Mary was a younger cousin, but Elizabeth greeted her humbly as the 'mother of my Lord.' Baby John in her womb recognized baby Jesus in Mary's womb. Elizabeth blessed Mary because Mary believed God and she believed God's word of promise. Joy and praise come from faith. Mary stayed until the time came for John to be born.

Application: Lord, help me to seek the council and advice of your people rather than that of worldly people.
One Word: Blessed is she who believed