Life is a precious gift. That truth can change everything for us. When we see the world, creation, and the human beings around us as a precious gift, our regard for it all changes. We see life as sacred. Our harsh words and attitudes are blunted. This week's episode opens us up to the beautiful ways God opens us up to value all of life.

A popular idiom is, "God works in mysterious ways." While there may be a mystery to God's purposes and will, sometimes God works in overt and public ways. In the case of Joseph, the soon-to-be-husband of Mary, we find a man invited into a a very public way of believing and supporting Mary as the mother of Jesus. In this story we find courage and faith to believe what God is doing.

The meeting between Mary and Elizabeth is a beautiful and powerful moments. These two women will give birth to children that will topple empires and redeem the world from sin. Most parents know nothing of what their children will do in their lives. These two parents are keenly aware of what God is doing in themselves and in each other. We can find lessons of hope and blessing from their example of faithful courage!

Mary is the first Christian. before miracles, teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection she believes in the gospel of Jesus. How? When she first hears the message of Jesus, as incredible as it is, she simply states, "May it be with me according to your word." Her response is a great relief for those who feel that God needs them to do something. God is already doing. We simply need to cooperate.

We read stories in the Bible of those who prayed and fasted and then God appeared to them. We read other stories of lament and despair when hopes go unrealized and dreams are unfulfilled. The story of Zechariah is a refreshing moment of hope for a man in the closing season of his life. Every now and then, God appears in a sudden surprise.