John Calvin Commentary Luke 1:39

"And Mary arose in these days and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Judah;" — Luke 1:39 (ASV)

And Mary arising This departure mentioned by Luke proves that Mary’s faith was not of a transitory nature: for the promise of God does not fade away with the presence of the angel, but is impressed upon her mind. The haste indicates a sincere and strong affection. We may infer from it that the Virgin disregarded everything else and formed a just estimate of this grace of God.

But it may be asked, what was her object in undertaking this journey? It certainly was not made for the mere purpose of inquiry: for she cherished in her heart by faith the Son of God as already conceived in her womb. Nor do I agree with those who think that she came for the purpose of congratulating Elisabeth.⁴¹ I think it more probable that her object was, partly to increase and strengthen her faith, and partly to celebrate the grace of God which both had received.⁴²

There is no absurdity in supposing that she sought to confirm her faith by a view of the miracle, which had been adduced to her with no small effect by the angel. For, though believers are satisfied with the bare word of God, they do not disregard any of his works which they find to be conducive to strengthening their faith. Mary was particularly bound to receive the assistance which had been offered, unless she chose to reject what the Lord had freely given to her.

Besides, the mutual interview might arouse both Elisabeth and herself to higher gratitude, as is evident from what follows. The power of God became more remarkable and striking by taking in at one view both favors, the very comparison of which gave no small additional luster.

Luke does not name the city in which Zacharias lived, but only mentions that it belonged to the tribe of Judah and that it was situated in a hilly district. Hence we infer that it was further than Jerusalem was from the town of Nazareth.

⁴¹ “Gratulandi causa;” — “;” — “pour faire caresse a sa cousine.”.”

⁴² “Illustrandae ultro citroque gratiae Dei;” — “;” — “de celebrer et magnifier la grace de Dieu faite a l'une et a l'autre.”.”