Fr Paul reads from the Gospel of Luke (1: 39-45) in which Mary visits her pregnant cousin, Elizabeth whose baby leaps in her womb when Mary greets her.Fr Paul says, Mary, in this Gospel, turns her attention to the needs of her elderly relative, Elizabeth, who is also expecting a child.  Even though Mary had plenty of her own to do in her preparations, it was a real act of kindness to make this long journey. Through her response, Elizabeth reminds us that God is faithful to the promises that God makes. It also reflects that time and time again throughout the scriptures that God cares for the poor, simple and those that are in need.Mindful of today’s Gospel, Fr Paul says we might reflect throughout today, ‘As Christmas approaches, how can I help those in need around me?’