To Accompany, Welcome, and Listen

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"The Road to Emmaus" (Lk 24: 13-35) is a compelling story of Jesus accompanying the two disciples in their time of concern.  

I love that story!

And, there's another.

Mary's "Walk to Ein Karem."  

Imagine Mary journeying to see her cousin Elizabeth.

Elizabeth is my inspiration.  

• She is married to Zechariah who listens to and trusts the angel's call (Luke 1: 5-25). 
• She is the mother of John, who listens to and follows his vocation to be, "the prophet of the Most High" (Luke 1: 76).  
• Most inspiring, Elizabeth listens to Mary (Luke 1: 39-56).

Look at Mary, with such a calling to share.  Feel her astonishment at being summoned to be the mother of the Son of God.  Picture Mary's need to tell that story.  Mary chooses Elizabeth.

Elizabeth is an inspiration of welcome, hospitality, of making a safe space, and listening. 

Elizabeth gives her whole presence to Mary.  At Mary's greeting, the infant in Elizabeth's womb, "leaps for joy" (Luke 1: 44).

Jesus on the Road to Emmaus models walking with another.  

Elizabeth has moved others who now call her the "Patroness of Listeners."

Elizabeth inspires me in this sacred ministry of listening. 

My Prayer

"That I may accompany others as Jesus did on that frantic road.  

That I would welcome, listen to, and acknowledge God's work in others, as Elizabeth did for Mary.  

Amen."