Mary and Elizabeth

This portrait of Mary and Elizabeth’s visit, described in Luke 1, is one of my favorite pieces of art during my time in Italy. Luke 1:5 says that Elizabeth was a descendent of Aaron; thus, she and her young cousin, Mary, were both parts of the Levitical line of priests!

Both women are recipients of a miracle; Elizabeth overcoming barrenness and Mary, a pregnant virgin. These women of priestly blood would play crucial parts in fulfilling prophecy. Their greeting is tender and personal as they are filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:41). Think about that. Two women of priestly blood are filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesy before Pentecost. This portrait is a powerful reminder that God has set aside women for high and holy purposes and that our female embodiment is made in the image of God, and it is good!