When we think of wisdom in the Bible, our minds often go straight to Solomon or the Magi. But before the star led wise men to Bethlehem, three wise women had already prepared the way for Christ: Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna.
Mary: The Woman Who Believed
When the Angel Gabriel appeared to her, Mary didn’t demand proof or delay with doubt.
She simply said: “Let it be done to me according to your word.”
Her wisdom was born of faith.
She listened, trusted, and obeyed—showing that true wisdom begins not with knowing everything, but with surrendering everything to God. This scene is one of the beautiful mysteries of the Holy Rosary.
PRODUCT: Three Wise Women: 40 Devotions Celebrating Advent with Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna. DESCRPTION This beautiful book of devotions helps us to recognize the various forms of faith in the Lord that we can work on this Advent.
Elizabeth: The Woman Who Recognized
When Mary visited her cousin, Elizabeth instantly recognized the presence of the Messiah. Filled with the Holy Spirit, she cried out, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!”
Elizabeth’s wisdom was the fruit of humility. In her old age, she rejoiced not in herself, but in what God was doing through others. She teaches us that spiritual insight comes when our hearts are free of envy and full of gratitude. This moment between Mary and Elizabeth is another one of the beautiful mysteries of the Holy Rosary.
Anna: The Woman Who Waited
Eighty-four years old and long widowed, Anna never left the Temple. She fasted, prayed, and waited. When she finally saw the Child Jesus, she knew Him instantly—and began proclaiming His coming to all who would listen. What amazing confidence in the Lord she revealed, and what an example of steadfast love for God.
Anna’s wisdom was perseverance in faith. She shows that those who wait on the Lord will not be disappointed.
The Wisdom of the Heart
Mary believed.
Elizabeth recognized.
Anna waited.
Three women, three kinds of wisdom—all rooted in the same source: a heart attuned to God’s will.
Their stories remind us that divine wisdom isn’t about intelligence or power, but about listening, trusting, and responding to God’s call in the everyday moments of life.
As Advent approaches, may the example of these wise women guide our own waiting—believing like Mary, rejoicing like Elizabeth, and persevering like Anna—until Christ is born anew in our hearts.
Learn more about these three wise women in this beautiful Advent devotional: Three Wise Women: 40 Devotions Celebrating Advent with Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna.
Purchase a copy for yourself—or give one as a gift—today at The Catholic Company!
Today's Takeaway
"BLESSED IS SHE WHO BELIEVED THAT THERE WOULD BE A FULFILLMENT OF WHAT WAS SPOKEN TO HER FROM THE LORD." (LUKE 1:45)
Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna each responded to God's will in different ways. Mary trusted, Elizabeth recognized God's work, and Anna persevered in prayer. Their examples remind us that wisdom is not simply knowing what God wants, but having the faith and humility to respond to Him.
Live It Out
MAKE ROOM FOR GOD'S VOICE
As Advent approaches, set aside ten minutes each day to read and reflect on Luke 1–2, where we encounter these three women. Consider which of their examples you most need to imitate right now: Mary's surrender, Elizabeth's humility, or Anna's perseverance. Choose one virtue to work on throughout Advent.
