Luke 1:40
And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
Luke 1:40 (KJV)
Context
Luke 1:40 records Mary’s arrival at the house of Zacharias, where she saluted Elisabeth. This moment follows the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she would conceive the Son of God. Mary then traveled to visit her relative Elizabeth, who was also miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist. The house of Zacharias was in the hill country of Judah, a city known to Mary.
Meaning
The verse notes that Mary saluted Elisabeth, not Zacharias. Possible reasons include Zacharias being absent, or because he was deaf and dumb and could not hear or return a greeting, or because it was not customary for women to salute men. The greeting itself is significant, for it leads to the events of the following verse, where Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit.
Biblical connections
This visitation served as a confirmation of God’s promises to both women, affirming the angelic messages they had received. When Mary entered the house, it was not just Mary who arrived, but Jesus, the Savior of the world, was present in her womb. John the Baptist, who leaped in Elizabeth’s womb upon hearing Mary’s greeting, recognized the presence of the Messiah even before their births.
Application
Fellowship and Support: The visitation of Mary to Elizabeth reminds us of the importance of fellowship and support among believers. We should seek opportunities to encourage and strengthen one another, especially during times of difficulty or when we are called to fulfill God’s purpose in our lives.
Recognizing Jesus’ Presence: Like John the Baptist, we should have a discerning spirit to recognize the presence of Jesus in our lives and in the lives of others. This calls for spiritual sensitivity and a deep connection with God, allowing us to discern His work and acknowledge His presence even in unexpected ways.
Trusting God’s Promises: Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth underscores the trust we should place in God’s promises. Even when circumstances seem impossible or confusing, God remains faithful to fulfill His Word. Just as Mary and Elizabeth experienced the fulfillment of God’s promises in their lives, we can have confidence that God will fulfill His promises to us as well.
Reflection
The act of Mary entering the house and saluting Elisabeth demonstrates her obedience and faith in the divine message, as she sought fellowship with her relative who shared in a miraculous pregnancy. The verse highlights the personal, relational nature of God’s work, as two women, both recipients of divine intervention, come together in a moment of mutual support and blessing. The greeting is a simple act of courtesy that becomes the occasion for a Spirit-filled encounter, underscoring how ordinary human actions can be woven into the fabric of God’s redemptive plan.
