T
he basket fell from her hands as Mary shuddered, remembering the brutal death of her friend. Her mother had reacted to the news of her encounter with the angel in disbelief. She was now two weeks late and the questions were tense and fearful. She told her mother that she had been chosen by God. She was met with scorn, but how could she be expected to understand? “And that is not all, Mother.” Mary continued tearfully, “The angel said that Elizabeth is also with child — and she is old!”
Her mother looked at her, stunned. “Hush, child! Do not speak of such things.” She was an only child. For that reason, she had been sheltered. She is so naive, so inexperienced. Her mother was a thoughtful woman. She and her husband had so wanted a second child, a son to carry on her husband’s name. But none came. Mary was raised under closer scrutiny, therefore. She was not allowed things other children enjoyed for no better reason than the parental ignorance of her mother and father. What is ignorance among the worldly affairs of men however, is not always ignorance in the ways of God. But insofar as she was able to determine fairness, Mary’s mother was fair. She was not quick to punish, she did not easily fall into primitive instincts. She considered.
My cousin has been in seclusion for more than six months.
Elizabeth had not publicly announced her condition. Nine months is a long time to wait for a promise. Anything could happen. Only trusted friends and relatives knew.
Mary could not possibly know, unless . . ?
As the truthfulness of her daughter’s claims found credence in her heart, she reached for the child and held her to her breast. “You shall not be judged, my lamb. No indeed,” she held her tighter, smiling through wet diamonds, “you shall not be judged.”
Abruptly she ended the embrace and held her daughter at arm’s length. Tightly by the shoulders as if she might escape. Mary’s eyes widened. “You must go to her!” With urgency. “Yes! That is the thing to do! You must go to her now. I will get your things.” Instantly her mother rose from her seat and bustled about preparing Mary’s things. She continued talking, instructing, “You’re not to worry about anything. You will be safe there. You will be in a priest’s own house!” Words cascaded. “I’ll deal with your father.” I’ll see to him! Her mother was now in command. Hurry!
