Luke 1:51-56
51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; 52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,
55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.” 56 And Mary remained with her about three months and returned to her home.
Mary’s song of praise in these verses have traditionally been called “The Magnificat,” which is derived from the word “magnify.” This hymn is the first of three hymns we see in Luke 1-2. This hymn echo’s language we see in the Old Testament, especially from the Book of Psalms, as Mary gives thanks and rejoices in the saving action of God on her behalf.
Darrell Bock says, “Those who know God and his grace can echo Mary’s song. We don’t have the honor of giving birth to the Savior of the World, but we do have the blessing of becoming one of his children. The promise God makes to his humble and poor children, revealed by Mary in her hymn of praise, are promises in which we share.”
The later portion of this hymn is Mary’s certainty and praise for the mighty power and strength of God. Mary’s faith is expressed so touchingly, her faith in the mighty and Merciful God, the Holy One, the Helper in a time of need. As we move through this time of advent, in preparation of the celebration of the coming of our Messiah, let us magnify his name and sing praises to our Almighty
- In light of Mary’s Song of Praise, in what ways can we magnify and praise our almighty God today?
- Take a moment and give thanks to God for his merciful love and goodness, for his mighty power and strength