Luke 1:46-54 (NIV)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, even as he said to our fathers." Mary’s Song of Magnification
This beautiful section of the Christmas story follows just after Mary reaches the home of her older relative Elizabeth. A simple greeting from Mary and Elizabeth miraculously knows the special blessing bestowed upon Mary. Elizabeth offers her own brief blessing on Mary and the special role that she has been chosen to play. Mary cannot contain her joy and bursts out with her famous song of praise and magnification for her unborn son.
Mary’s song of offers thanks for six things.For God’s selection of Mary “a humble” servant of his people. (1:46-48)Next, His holiness in doing these great things for her. (1:49)His mercy, which goes on from generation to generation. (1:50)His power, “he has performed might deeds … and scattered those who are proud” (1:51)His authority and dominion, “brought down rulers … lifted up the humble … filled the hungry with good things … sent the rich away empty”. (1:52-53)And His faithfulness, “helped his servant Israel … merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever” (1:54-55)
Mary, through her song of magnification, sets the tone for us during Christmas. As we celebrate the Christ’s birth, let there always be thanks and joy in our own hearts because God sent his perfect son to us for our redemption.
Blessings, John H