Feeling excited!
A sense of energy, change, anticipation. We can feel excited in the moment or as we look forward to something yet to happen.
A pregnant young woman journeys to the hill country to visit an older relative who is also expecting her first child.
As the older woman greets her visitor, the baby in her womb leaps in excitement, conveying the significance of this moment to his host mother, who is herself so excited that she bursts out a joyful acclamation.
This is the story of two excited, and perhaps still somewhat apprehensive, first time mums: Mary and Elizabeth. It is told in the Bible in the Gospel of Luke. It illustrates how becoming excited is a natural, core, human emotion experienced even before birth. It is also contagious. We see that it naturally sits alongside other emotions, such as uncertainty or apprehension.
What is causing you to feel excited today? Tell God about it. If you are able, speak out loud.
Is there something you would you like to say to God or ask God for as you share your excitement?
Here is a simple prayer, say it with me:
God, I am excited. As I look forward to new opportunities, I sense a new energy.
I know you will be with me at this time and it gives me confidence to know you share my excitement and joy at this time. Thank you for being with me today.
Amen.
You can read about Mary’s visit to Elizabeth here in Luke 1:39-45. Read the passage through slowly, at your own pace. Which words stand out to you? Pause for a moment and offer those words to God. Listen for anything God may say to you in response.
Mary responds to Elizabeth with her own excited song of praise. Say it with her now.
And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’ And Mary remained with her for about three months and then returned to her home.
Luke 1:46-56 New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright © 1989, 1995 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. http://nrsvbibles.org
Where in your body do you feel excited? Take a moment to notice your feelings.
Now turn your focus to God.
If you are able, stretch your arms high above you and open your hands. Look up and say thank you to God for the things you are excited about.
A prayer of reception and gratitude
Now hold your hands out in front of you, if you are able, and say this prayer with me:
I hold out my hands in excited anticipation.
My spirit sings within me as I look forward.
I hold out my hands to you, God,
and I receive your blessing.
Thank you, God.
Amen.
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