Scripture
46 And Mary said:
“My soul glorifies the Lord
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”
Reflection
Mary’s “song” is filled with references to the legacy of her people. You will find a reference to a similar song by another woman named Hannah when she found out that she was pregnant (1 Samuel 2:1-10), a reference to Psalm 103:17 which reminds us of God’s faithfulness even we are overcome with our own frailty, principle that God exalts the humble and lowers the proud (Proverbs 3:34, Isaiah 2:11-12) and that God keeps his promises to Israel made in an eternal covenant. (Deuteronomy 7:7-8). In the end Mary doesn’t make this about her as much as she does about her people, her community. Look at what the Lord has done for us! (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about Jesus and people?
- How can you apply Mary’s song to your community?
- Who can you share this passage with?
Prayer
Think of someone you know who could use a little joy in their lives and pray for presence of the Lord to rest on them. “In His presence there is fullness of Joy” Psalm 16:11.
