Church Fathers Commentary Luke 1:56

"And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned unto her house." — Luke 1:56 (ASV)

St. Ambrose of Milan: Mary stayed with Elizabeth until she had completed the time of her delivery, as it is written, And Mary abode, etc.

Theophylact of Ohrid: For in the sixth month of the forerunner's conception, the Angel came to Mary, and she stayed with Elizabeth for three months; thus, the nine months were completed.

St. Ambrose of Milan: Now, it was not only for the sake of friendship that she stayed so long, but also for the development of so great a prophet. For if at her first arrival the child had advanced so much that he leaped in the womb at Mary's greeting and his mother was filled with the Holy Spirit, how much more must we suppose the presence of the Virgin Mary contributed over such a long period? Therefore, she is rightly presented as having ministered to Elizabeth and having preserved the mystical number.

The Venerable Bede: For the chaste soul that conceives a desire for the spiritual word must necessarily submit to the yoke of heavenly discipline. Remaining in the same place for a period of three months, it must not cease to persevere until it is illuminated by the light of faith, hope, and love.

Theophylact of Ohrid: But when Elizabeth was about to give birth, the Virgin departed, as it follows, And she returned. This was likely because of the crowd that would assemble for the birth, as it was not fitting for a virgin to be present on such an occasion.

Greek Expositors: For it is the custom for virgins to leave when a pregnant woman gives birth. When she reached her own home, she did not go anywhere else but remained there until she knew the time of her delivery was near. And Joseph, while doubting, was instructed by an angel.