4^th Sunday of Advent [C]

December 22, 2024

Luke 1:39-45

Mary and Elizabeth are two of the most powerful women in the Bible. Yet, their power does not stem from physical strength. Mary is a young and tender woman, while Elizabeth is elderly. Their immense strength lies in their unwavering commitment to follow the will of God. But what is God’s will for these remarkable women? They are called to be mothers.

Motherhood is often seen as a natural progression in a woman’s life. After marriage, it is generally expected that a woman will bear children. The female body undergoes incredible transformations to create a nurturing environment for a growing baby. These physiological changes are not only numerous but also gradual, adapting to the baby’s needs during pregnancy. The activities of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs increase significantly to support both mother and child. Additionally, the body produces new hormones that affect various organs, metabolism, and psychological states. Even after giving birth, the mother’s body doesn’t immediately return to its pre-pregnancy state; instead, it continues to transform to support the newborn. For example, the body produces breast milk, carefully adjusted in quantity and nutrients to meet the baby’s needs.

Despite the marvel of these processes, the pregnancy has taken place to billions of women and this has led some to view it as merely a biological or mechanical function necessary for the survival of the species. Some people reduce the female body to a mere reproductive tool or see pregnancy as nothing more than a temporary vessel for the baby. This mechanical perspective on the body and the mother-child relationship has driven some to make extreme decisions, including terminating pregnancies. The reasons for such decisions are varied—fears of overpopulation, concerns about increasing carbon emissions, economic challenges, or simply the perceived inconvenience of having children.

This is where Mary and Elizabeth stands as our examples. Both women recognized that their pregnancies were not just biological processes. They understood the risks involved in their unique situations. Mary, though betrothed to Joseph, was pregnant without any involvement of a man. She risked being accused of adultery, a crime punishable by stoning under the law (Deuteronomy 22:22-24). Elizabeth, on the other hand, faced the physical dangers of pregnancy in old age, which could have jeopardized her life. Despite these risks, both women embraced their roles as mothers. Why? Because they believed that motherhood was God’s will for them—a holy vocation. They trusted that the God who called them to this sacred mission would also sustain and provide for them.

Holiness is the key to true happiness. This is why the meeting between Mary and Elizabeth is marked by joy rather than fear or anxiety. In today’s world, where having children is often viewed as a burden rather than a blessing, an act of faith, or a source of joy, Mary and Elizabeth serve as beacons of hope. Their courage and faith inspire us to see motherhood as a divine calling and a profound source of happiness.

Rome

Valentinus Bayuhadi Ruseno, OP

Questions for Reflection:

1. How do we perceive pregnancy? Is it merely a biological process, a socio-cultural event, an economic burden, or a divine calling to holiness?
2. For mothers: How do you view your children? How do you nurture them and guide them in their journey through life?
3. For men: What roles do you play in supporting pregnant mothers or mothers caring for their babies?