The Visitation

A piece that is shaped by today Gospel reading from Luke in the lectionary.

How old were you Elizabeth?
Old enough for your young cousin
And your equally ancient husband
To be astonished at the news
Of your gracious gift?

You were old enough Elizabeth
To see in your young visitor
A need for encouragement;
To know that like your son 
You prepared the way.

You were old enough Elizabeth
That this was the final time
We see or hear from you.
Was being an elderly prim
Too much for you?

Were you ever around Elizabeth
To advise your miracle child?
To encourage his speaking
In the same way you prompted
Young Mary’s singing?

Were you ever around Elizabeth
To shape John’s sense of style
Or show him how to make a meal
From unlikely ingredients
If ever required?

You were there enough Elizabeth
To inspire the stories of others

Showing that women (and men)
Of every age and stage of life
Can all play their part. 

Selah