Characters at the Cradle: Mary and Elizabeth, Called by God

by David Chadwick

This week, we will continue to look for glimpses of glory throughout the life of Mary, but specifically in the context of her very special relationship with Elizabeth. Both called by God to very high, very important tasks.

Let’s briefly recap where we are in the story.

Zechariah was visited by Gabriel and given the news that he was going to have a son named John. But because of his unbelief, he was made silent until the birth of his son.

Can you imagine for a moment how Zechariah communicated the news to his wife without the ability to speak? Did he write down what the angel Gabriel had said to him? Or maybe he used hand signals like a game to get her to guess that she would have a child in her old age? It’s fun to think about this!

Now, try to imagine what Elizabeth must have felt as she processed Gabriel’s visit to her husband. To know that she was called by God. After years of prayers and waiting, she would finally have a son! Per Gabriel’s specific instructions, she was to name the baby John, a name that means “God is gracious.” John sure lived up to his name! He was a demonstration of God’s grace to both Zechariah and Elizabeth, and his life’s mission was to pave the way for Jesus, the fullness of grace (John 1:16), to walk out his life on earth.

Afterwards, Gabriel appeared to a young virgin girl named Mary, who we began to study last week. Also called by God, Mary loved God and was a true example of Godly womanhood.

God chose Mary to bear the Son of God, Immanuel, which means “God with us.” Her child would be named Jesus. He would be the Savior of the world, forgiving humanity of its sin and restoring people to the heart of the Father. The Holy Spirit’s presence overshadowed Mary’s humanity and paved the way for the incarnation of Jesus, God in human form.

This week, as we look at Mary and Elizabeth’s very special relationship, remember that their closeness was deeper than being biological cousins or even being close friends. They carried similar callings. They were both called by God to extremely hard tasks for his kingdom.

I like to think that there is no greater closeness than the kind that is formed while living on a common mission for Jesus. There is no greater joy than to work alongside other believers to see the gospel message go forward. Mary and Elizabeth shared this kind of closeness and joy with one another!

I would encourage you, too, to prioritize relationships with others who are called by God to live on mission for Jesus and his kingdom!