When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives had heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy. Luke 1:57-58 NIV

A baby for Elizabeth! What a blessing after many years of waiting. A baby after her body was not able to produce a child? Yes, after everyone thought it was impossible, the God of the possible brought it to pass.

I'm sure there was singing in heaven on that day as well. Rejoicing and dancing by angels and God, because another huge step was set in motion. The plan was unfolding for the Messiah's entrance into the world! John the Baptist was the child born, and he was the forerunner of Jesus Christ.

Elizabeth and Mary were expecting at the same time, and I'm sure were able to comfort and help each other. "I can imagine Elizabeth, soon to be mom of John the Baptist, drawing Mary, soon to be mother of Jesus, onto her aging shoulder. Two women, the old and the young, embracing in mutual identification. Two women seeking solace in each other's company. Two women honorably connecting to one another. Sisters of divine circumstance shouldering the future of humanity." Patsy Clairmont- "The Women of Faith Study Bible"

Did they have any idea the divine destiny unfolding before their eyes? I think they understood in part, but the full magnitude of this historical event no one could fathom. Even today it is hard for me to imagine all the difference the coming of the Son of God meant to the world at large.

Where would we be if He hadn't come? Would the world still exsist? There might never have been any charitable organizations, or food pantries. The Holy Spirit would not have been sent, and we would be empty and cold on the inside, but He chose to come, in obedience to His Heavenly Father.

This day of celebration, Christmas, and all the happenings before it, is a blessed time of remembrance and joy. It makes life worth living, because of the hope of the Savior. What He has accomplished by His coming, death and resurrection, and what he does in our own lives on a daily basis. Let's not forget what He plans to do in the future!

Restoration of all the earth is on God's agenda for the future when He returns. Restoration of our bodies and minds. No decay, loss or sadness, ever again. Just as Mary and Elizabeth looked forward to Jesus' first coming, we look forward to His second. He first restored our Spirits to the Father, but soon all things will be restored. 

As Mary and Elizabeth couldn't fathom the future neither can we!