We continue with our Advent Theme: Those Who Dream. Last week, we heard Mary's song of joy - the Magnificat. This week, we read about Elizabeth, the cousin who helped her find the notes to sing. Today's poem from Sanctified Art by Sarah Are sets the scene for the story and shares the importance of love. I look forward to worshiping with you on Sunday.
Peace, Pastor Amy
Joy Like Water
Mary went to Elizabeth’s house,
Because that’s what we do when the world falls apart.
That’s what we do when the script is flipped,
When the rug is pulled,
When it rains inside.
We go home.
We find friends.
We find love.
So Mary went to Elizabeth’s house,
Harboring good news that must have felt like water—
Something capable of helping her float or pulling her under.
And only then,
Only there,
In the presence of a face that looked like love,
Does the word “joy” appear.
Mary said, “How can this be?”
The angel said, “Do not be afraid.”
Mary said, “May it be so.”
But when Mary went to Elizabeth’s house
And Elizabeth opened the door,
Joy—like a tipped cup of water—
Spilled out everywhere.
I imagine that Elizabeth laughed.
I imagine that Mary framed her growing belly.
I imagine that both women pressed palms to stomach
When that baby began to kick,
A holy ritual as old as time.
I imagine that God smiled.
And I imagine, that for the first time,
Mary could float.
Isn’t it always that way?
I could harbor joy to myself.
I could tuck joyful moments deep into pockets,
Saving memories of better days for long nights.
But when I share my joy with you,
When you open the door,
Joy spills out everywhere,
And it is love that helps me float.
** Art Work: "A Dream Confirmed" by Lisle Gwynn Garrity, LLC Sanctified Art
