38. Mary said, “I am the Lord's servant! Let it happen as you have said.” And the angel left her.
39. A short time later Mary hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea.
40. She went into Zechariah's home, where she greeted Elizabeth.
41. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, her baby moved within her.The Holy Spirit came upon Elizabeth.
42. Then in a loud voice she said to Mary:God has blessed you more than any other woman! He has also blessed the child you will have.
43. Why should the mother of my Lord come to me?
44. As soon as I heard your greeting, my baby became happy and moved within me.
45. The Lord has blessed you because you believed that he will keep his promise.
46. Mary said:With all my heartI praise the Lord,
47. and I am gladbecause of God my Saviour.
48. He cares for me,his humble servant.From now on,all people will sayGod has blessed me.
49. God All-Powerful has donegreat things for me,and his name is holy.
50. He always shows mercyto everyonewho worships him.
51. The Lord has usedhis powerful armto scatter thosewho are proud.
52. He drags strong rulersfrom their thronesand puts humble peoplein places of power.
53. God gives the hungrygood things to eat,and sends the rich awaywith nothing.
54. He helps his servant Israeland is always mercifulto his people.
55. The Lord made this promiseto our ancestors,to Abraham and his familyfor ever!
56. Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months. Then she went back home.