Songs 2:8-14 or Zephaniah 3:14-18 / Luke 1:39-45
For those of us who had grown plants from seeds, we would know how fragile the beginning of life can be.
The first few days are critical for the germination and the growth of the seedling. Too much sunlight or too much water will harm it, and adverse elements of nature can cause dire consequences for it.
As much as the seedling is prone to the elements of nature, yet the seedling also needs some challenging conditions in order for it to grow in strength to withstand those conditions.
In the gospel, we heard that Mary set out as quickly as she could to a town in the hill country to visit Elizabeth who was with child.
Usually when a woman has just conceived, she would need to take care and rest more as the early stages of pregnancy are rather critical.
And for Mary who has just conceived, instead of resting more to let the baby in her womb develop, she seemed to be taking a risk by travelling to a hill country, and travelling in those times is certainly not a ride in a luxury coach.
But with the new life of Jesus in her, Mary was propelled by the power of the Holy Spirit to go to Elizabeth who would need the help and company of someone who understood her situation.
As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, we will also be filled with the blessings of the new life that Mary experienced.
Like Mary, we too will be propelled by the Holy Spirit to serve those in need. When we let the Holy Spirit lead us to go out and serve others, our faith will indeed grow and be strengthened.