There is no doubt in anyone’s mind about the emotional roller coaster of pregnancy. It’s something experienced by all who are in close contact with a woman “with child.” From the crazy food cravings to the emotional outbursts, there is never a dull moment.
Mary & Son, Jesus
Elizabeth & Son, John (The Baptist)
Mary and Elizabeth were first-time mothers-to-be and surely had emotions stirring inside of them. Both were destined to give birth. Both had partners at their side.
At her advanced age, Elizabeth probably laughed, yet felt blessed to be able to conceive and finally bear a child. She looked forward to blending in with the other women in the neighborhood. She would no longer be stared at for being childless. Awe. Astonished. Honored. Blessed. Privileged. Matronly. Relief.
Mary did not laugh, yet most likely felt blessed and privileged to be chosen by God to deliver the baby Jesus. Even being the Holy Mother, she undoubtedly felt the scorn of some in society as an unwed pregnant girl. What shame she must have felt and her family, too. Throw that all in with a mix of hormones running wild, and one can sense the good with the bad. Awe. Astonishment. Honored. Blessed. Anointed. Miraculous. Unbelief. Lowly. Scared. Disappointed. Bewildered. Humbled. Sacred.
Unique Story
Like Elizabeth, I was older when I gave birth to my younger son. It was redemptive to me, a moment filled with joy. It might have been something like the anticipation that Elizabeth felt. My pregnancy was uncomplicated! It contrasted with my first one, which might have echoed Mary’s apprehension and curiosity. Like Mary’s experience, my husband wasn’t initially thrilled about my first pregnancy, leading to emotional turmoil. My dream of motherhood clashed with the challenges of medical complications, which labeled my pregnancy as high-risk. While overjoyed, I felt conflicted, as perhaps Mary did. I wondered if I had done something terribly wrong.
When reflecting on my pregnancy, it’s not hard for me to imagine that Elizabeth and Mary faced their diverse emotions just as I did. I’m pretty sure the feelings darted all around. The joyous anticipation, the unforeseen challenges, and the conflicting emotions bubbling up inside.
I experienced all kinds of emotions all at the same time. For me, there was no other life experience that came close. It was like being on a rollercoaster, with its ups and downs, having a massage day at the spa while enjoying your favorite ice cream cone while crying – all rolled up into one.
The Miracle of Emotions
Just as God chose Elizabeth and Mary to play pivotal roles in the Nativity Story, God may have chosen a man named Mark to play a significant role in my first pregnancy. Mark was the counselor at the clinic. He was kind and empathetic. He guided my then-husband and me through our whirlwind of emotions and encouraged us to stay strong.
The Closeness to God
Toward the end of pregnancy, the anticipation. The unknown. The praying. The closeness to God.
Praying for the baby.
Praying for the baby’s health.
Praying for stability.
Praying for a loving husband to be supportive.
Praying for the miracle of birth.
I felt that God was with me every step of the way. And I’m guessing Elizabeth and Mary felt that way too. Our pregnancies and the birth process were nothing short of a miracle. Like Elizabeth and Mary, I had a son. Then, six and a half years later, I gave birth to a second son. The experience of feeling different emotions at the same time was a miracle.
Have you considered asking God about the emotions you feel?
The next blog will explore The Miracle of Jesus’ birth.
#Birth #Christmas #Motherhood #Mary #Elizabeth #Faith #NavityStory #Emotions #Pregnancy
I and Thou Reflections 
