Mary’s sweet hymn of praise in Luke 1:46-55 is a beautiful expression of her love for God. Before the canonical Christian texts, hymns were the source of learning about and remembering the life of Christ. Mary’s Magnificat is one of the most beloved early hymns and was sung in worship and during travels as a means of spiritual formation and connection among believers. I have always had a special love for Mary, and these verses show her character and faith as no others do for me.
And Mary said:
“My soul exalts the Lord,
And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
“For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave;
For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed.
“For the Mighty One has done great things for me;
And holy is His name.
“And His mercy is upon generation after generation
Toward those who fear Him.
“He has done mighty deeds with His arm;
He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart.
“He has brought down rulers from their thrones,
And has exalted those who were humble.
“He has filled the hungry with good things;
And sent away the rich empty-handed.
“He has given help to Israel His servant,
In remembrance of His mercy,
As He spoke to our fathers,
To Abraham and his descendants forever.” (NASB)
I think of Mary at Christmas and wonder each time I see a Nativity Scene what she must have been thinking and feeling as God made His way into this world through her womb. As a mother, I cannot imagine the joy she felt in knowing she was chosen to be the mother of God or the pain she endured as she watched Christ die upon the cross. Mary gave herself completely to God, and her strength came from her faith in knowing Who He was. She had a most intimate knowledge of His love, and her hymn reflects a love and trust I want to share.
Songs are a great way to learn, and I imagine this song stayed in the hearts of the pilgrims who sang it as they traveled together and shared the beautiful hope we continue to share as we walk in God’s Kingdom and remember the mercy that is promised to each of us forever. It’s fitting this is my 400th post because I can think of nothing better than Mary’s hymn to help me remember that I am on a journey designed to rejoice in God. Mary knew she was blessed, and I pray we will share her joy as we go through this season of expectation of Christ’s return.
journeywithgigi 