What mother and father have not waited until the first “kick” of their child in the womb? It is a universal experience of anticipation fulfilled, spontaneous joy, wonderment and so much more. What was already quite “real” has become even more so. There is life in the womb! There were already layers of expectation and now how much more? This was true for Elizabeth and Mary, but they were also aware that their hopes and joys were simply gateways to release divine hope, joy, redemption and more upon a waiting world. All such moments are signs of God’s graciousness, blessedness, waiting on promise, and in the end, a sign of salvation’s approach.

The Visitation is a powerful moment of shared joy and divine recognition. For expecting mothers, this passage serves as a reminder of the sacredness of carrying new life and the strength found in community. Elizabeth and Mary, both blessed with miraculous pregnancies, celebrate each other, recognizing the profound purpose within their own journeys.

The Visitation reveals that God’s presence is deeply intertwined with the experience of motherhood. Elizabeth’s response to Mary’s arrival—feeling her child leap with joy—signifies the holy connection between a mother and her child, even before birth. Expectant mothers can see themselves in Mary’s journey, embracing both the wonder and responsibility of nurturing life. This moment in Scripture calls all mothers to recognize the presence of God within, and to lean on supportive relationships, knowing they’re part of something much greater than themselves.

Image credit: The Visitation | Giotto | Lower Church of the Basilica of St. Francis | Assisi, Italy | PD-US