Day 19 | Praise from Promise

"And the baby in my womb leaped for joy.”

As Mary entered Elizabeth’s home, the yet unborn John the Baptist leaped in her womb as his savior was near in Mary’s womb. John, inspired by the Holy Spirit, knew that his cousin Jesus was Lord, God, King, and Savior and had the proper response to being in His presence—praise and worship. Then, following her son’s lead, Elizabeth recognizes the unborn Jesus as her Lord. “Blessed is the fruit of your womb!”

Commendation belonged to Mary for her faith, but praise was reserved for the Lord Jesus. This is even seen in Mary’s song of praise, the Magnificat, as she gives all praise and worship to God for the sending of His son, Jesus. As we prepare for Christmas morning, what is your response going to be? Are you filled with praise and worship? Are you indifferent? Are you simply excited for presents and time with family and friends? Let us follow John the Baptist’s lead, like Elizabeth did, and leap in anticipation at the coming of our Lord, God, King, and Savior—Jesus the Messiah.