It is 21st December 2016. The readings are from Songs 2:8-14 or Zephaniah 3:14-18; and the gospel from Luke 1:39-45. The first reading presents God as a groom inviting the beloved to come near to enjoy the peace and happiness. The passage is the poem of the bride to her beloved. She expresses her love. New life is possible when there is true deep love. The responsorial Psalm praises “Ring out your joy to the Lord, O you just; O sing him a song that is new.” (Ps. 32:3). The Gospel presents us with the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth. As Mary shared the joy of what the Lord has done to her with her cousin , the two great babies rejoiced in the wombs their mothers. Our personal visit to someone must bear a spiritual impact on the person. Only in acknowledging the goodness and wonders of the Lord verbally sharing with the other, we begin to provide joy to the one we visit. John recognised His Creator and leapt for joy. May we make efforts seriously pay a visit to someone to share the joy of the Lord. Let not our visits end up only in socialising and pleasurable amusements rather to uplift the inner person. May you have a good day.