The Christmas story in Luke is filled with hope, joy, and powerful lessons about faith. One of the most touching moments is when Mary visits Elizabeth, a meeting that overflows with the Holy Spirit and points us toward the heart of God’s plan. In this Luke Bible lesson, we’ll explore what their encounter teaches us about humility, celebration, and trusting God’s purpose for our lives.
Mary Visits Elizabeth – A Luke Bible Lesson from the Christmas Story
From Luke 1, we continue with the beautiful Christmas story in Luke. Today’s passage focuses on a heartwarming meeting — Mary visits Elizabeth — and how this moment teaches us about joy, humility, and God’s amazing plan.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” – Luke 2:14 (KJB)
The Christmas Story – Mary Visits Elizabeth
After hearing the angel’s message, Mary, mother of Jesus, traveled quickly to the hill country of Judah to visit her cousin Elizabeth. When she arrived at Zechariah’s house and greeted Elizabeth, something incredible happened.
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. She exclaimed, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And how has it happened to me that the mother of my Lord would come to me? For when your greeting reached my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her.” – Luke 1:41-45 (NASB)
This was no ordinary visit. It was a meeting filled with the presence of God and the confirmation of His promises.
Mary’s Song – The Magnificat
In response, Mary sang a song of praise to God — a hymn we now know as The Magnificat.
“My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has looked upon the humble state of His servant. From now on, all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me; holy is His name. His mercy is for those who fear Him, from generation to generation.” – Luke 1:46-50 (NASB)
Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months before returning home, no doubt strengthened by this time together.
Mary and Elizabeth – Lessons in Humility and Joy
Elizabeth herself was experiencing a miracle — she was pregnant with John the Baptist after years of longing for a child. Yet instead of feeling jealous that Mary’s Son would be even greater, she was filled with joy. She celebrated Mary’s blessing.
Have you ever struggled with envy when someone else received a blessing you hoped for? It’s human to feel that way. But as this Luke Bible lesson shows, we can choose to rejoice with others, trusting that God has a unique purpose for each of us.
Finding Your Purpose in God’s Plan
If you’re unsure what God is calling you to do, take it to Him in prayer. Ask sincerely, and He will show you your assignment. It might not seem glamorous, but in God’s kingdom, there are no small jobs.
I’m reminded of a story from the 1960s. A woman working as a janitor at NASA was sweeping the control room floor. When asked about her work, she replied, “I’m not just sweeping the floor — I’m helping to send a man to the moon!”
That’s the mindset we can have as believers. We are not just doing tasks; we are part of building something far greater — the Kingdom of God.
The Christmas Story’s Bigger Picture
This meeting between Mary and Elizabeth is just one part of the Christmas story in Luke. It reminds us that every role in God’s plan matters, and that joy comes when we trust Him completely.
To read more inspiring stories, visit Making Christ Known. You might also enjoy the Children’s Christmas Story – Three Kings for another perspective on the events surrounding Christ’s birth.
Love in Christ,
Bob
If you have never accepted the life-changing gift of Jesus Christ, take a moment to read John 3:16.