The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrated on July 2nd in the traditional liturgical calendar, commemorates the journey of Mary to visit her cousin Elizabeth, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke (1:39-56). This profound event is rich in theological significance, and the Church Fathers offer deep insights into its spiritual and doctrinal dimensions.
Theological Significance of the Visitation
The Visitation is not merely a meeting between two expectant mothers; it is a profound encounter where the Old Covenant meets the New Covenant. Mary, bearing Jesus in her womb, is the Ark of the New Covenant, while Elizabeth represents the fulfillment of the Old Covenant. This meeting signifies the dawn of salvation history’s culmination in Christ.
The Joy of the Encounter
St. Ambrose, in his commentary on the Gospel of Luke, highlights the joy that permeates this encounter. He writes, “Elizabeth was the first to hear the voice; but John was the first to be aware of grace. She heard through the course of nature; he leaped because of the mystery. She perceived the arrival of Mary; he the arrival of the Lord. The woman perceived the woman’s presence; the child, that of the child. The women speak of grace; the babies bring it to pass within them and begin already to fulfill their own function by prophetic leaping for joy” (Expositio Evangelii secundum Lucam, 2.19).
This joy is not only a personal joy but also a cosmic one, reflecting the joy of creation at the imminent coming of the Savior. Mary’s greeting brings the Holy Spirit, causing John the Baptist to leap in Elizabeth’s womb, symbolizing the sanctification and prophetic mission of John even before his birth.
Mary as the Ark of the New Covenant
St. Athanasius of Alexandria draws a parallel between Mary and the Ark of the Covenant. He states, “O noble Virgin, truly you are greater than any other greatness. For who is your equal in greatness, O dwelling place of God the Word? To whom among all creatures shall I compare you, O Virgin? You are greater than them all, O Ark of the Covenant, clothed with purity instead of gold! You are the Ark in which is found the golden vessel containing the true manna, that is, the flesh in which Divinity resides” (Homily of the Papyrus of Turin).
Mary’s visit to Elizabeth is thus seen as the Ark of the New Covenant coming to bring the presence of God into Elizabeth’s home. This event foreshadows the Incarnation, where God would dwell among His people in the person of Jesus Christ.
The Magnificat: A Hymn of Praise
The Magnificat, Mary’s hymn of praise during the Visitation, is a cornerstone of Christian liturgical prayer. St. Augustine reflects on the Magnificat, emphasizing its role in the Christian life: “For in this song Mary shows herself to be, not the Mother of God alone, but also the disciple of God. She declares the greatness of the Lord whom she bore, magnifies Him who is her Son and her Lord, and in her humility acknowledges the honor done to her” (Sermo 18, De Sanctis).
The Magnificat is a prophetic hymn that echoes the songs of Hannah and other Old Testament figures, yet it transcends them by proclaiming the fulfillment of God’s promises in the coming of the Messiah.
A Model of Charity and Humility
The Visitation is a model of charity and humility. St. John Chrysostom praises Mary’s selfless journey to assist Elizabeth: “Here is shown the patience, the humility, and the charity of the Virgin, in that she, who had within her the Son of God, hastened to visit her cousin” (Homilies on the Gospel of Matthew, Homily 36).
This act of service, despite her own extraordinary circumstances, exemplifies the Christian call to love and serve others, putting their needs before our own.
Conclusion
The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a treasure trove of spiritual and theological richness, as illuminated by the Church Fathers. It is a moment that encapsulates joy, prophecy, the fulfillment of God’s promises, and the embodiment of charity and humility. As we reflect on this feast, may we be inspired by Mary’s example to carry Christ within us and bring His presence to others, magnifying the Lord through our lives.
In the words of St. Ambrose, “Let Mary’s soul be in each of you to magnify the Lord. Let her spirit be in each to rejoice in God” (Expositio Evangelii secundum Lucam, 2.26). May the Visitation inspire us to greater devotion and service, echoing the joy and grace of that holy encounter.