07.04.05 Elizabeth the Nurturing Woman A Biblical Revelation

Elizabeth the Nurturing Woman – A Biblical Revelation 

Elizabeth, a descendant of the tribe of Levi and a resident of the hill country of Judah, was a righteous woman, married to Zechariah, described as ‘a priest of the Lord’ (Luke 1:5-6). She was popularly known for her kindness and compassion, especially towards those in need (Luke 1:58).

God knew that Elizabeth had a special gift for nurturing, thereby entrusting her with the miracle of bearing John the Baptist, a prophet who would prepare the way for Jesus. Elizabeth's role was crucial in nurturing a child who would grow up to be a mighty voice in the wilderness, calling people to repentance and pointing them to Christ, while eating honey and raw locusts.

Similarly, Elizabeth’s cousin Mary had been chosen for a remarkable task; to bear the Son of God. Although the Bible is silent about the details of how the young virgin felt in the aftermath of the angel’s visit, she must have been somewhat troubled by the news and anxious about the implications, hence running to Elizabeth for comfort. Elizabeth, being a nurturer, was quick to sense Mary's distress, opening her heart and home, offering words of reassurance. "Blessed are you among women and blessed is the child you will bear!" (Luke 1:42), she proclaimed, a confession which must have curbed Mary’s stress at the time, restoring confidence while filling her heart with peace and joy.

Elizabeth's nurturing nature was also evident in her discretion, having kept the secret of her pregnancy herself for a good five months. Therefore, she must have exercised the same discretion regarding Mary's miraculous pregnancy, especially since Joseph was not yet aware of that turn of events. Rumours travel fast, and Elizabeth lived only 120–160 kilometers from Mary's home, a five-day journey on foot. Therefore, confidentiality was of the essence, to prevent news of Mary’s pregnancy from reaching Joseph before the appointed time. Elizabeth provided a safe space for the young virgin to grow in faith and process her emotions. As Mary stayed with Elizabeth, the young virgin must have found solace in her cousin's kindness, encouragement and understanding, which would have helped her to continue trusting in God's plan.But Elizabeth's nurturing nature wasn't new. She had been caring for Zechariah during a difficult time. When the angel Gabriel announced that they would have a son, Zechariah had doubted and was struck mute. Elizabeth must have been his rock, supporting him through a whole nine months of the man's dumbness. She must have creatively devised ways of communicating love and reassurance.

Elizabeth's nurturing nature extended beyond her family to the community, thereby generating trust and affection, a fact which earned her a special place in their hearts. The community's joyful response to John's birth (Luke 1:58) reflects the strong bond they shared with Elizabeth. Little wonder that they celebrated her blessing as if it were their very own.