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In what has become known as “The Visitation,” a young woman and an older woman came together to make sense of all that God was doing in their lives. The young Mary sought out the older Elizabeth and together they were able to recognize God’s saving ways in and through them. They learned how to live into those seemingly impossible and terrifying but life-giving promises.

The same can be true for us. We can seek out other older women who help us make sense of what God is up to in our lives. Like Mary, when trying to make sense of what God is stirring up in me, I visit older women friends. Like Elizabeth, they give me perspective, helpful feedback, affirmation, the right questions and courage. They help me to see and recognize what God is doing in my life. Hopefully, through those conversations something in them leapt with hope and perspective, too. These are contemporary visitations, where both women are blessed.

This message is excerpted from “Multi-generational relationships” by Sara Olson-Smith in the April 2014 Café online magazine. Today is Holy Trinity Sunday. Today we commemorate the Visit of Mary to Elizabeth.