The Christmas story continues with Mary’s song of praise – also called The Magnificat in Luke 1:46-55 ESV
Mary’s Song of Praise – Magnificat
Mary’s response to the the Angel’s pronouncement and Elizabeth’s word of affirmation was praise. This song is often called the Magnificat because in Latin the first word is (My Soul Magnifies).
This song of praise is full and so is Mary’s heart as she takes in all God has done…for her…for Elizabeth…and for the world. Her words do indeed magnify the Lord. This echos Hannah’s song after giving birth to Samuel in 1 Samuel 2:1-11 ESV.
Mary’s song also echoes words the Psalmist wrote. These are Spirit-filled words…in praise for her Savior.
My Thoughts on Mary’s Song
After these amazing events: the angel’s visit and seeing Elizabeth, Mary is overcome–she is filled with the Spirit of the Lord and in awe of everything God is doing around her.
Have you ever experienced God’s presence or work in your life so profoundly, you were overcome? I can recall a few. How I wish there were more. They remind me of Isaiah when he said, “Woe is me.” Or Peter who cried, “Master, leave. I am a sinner…”
I often wonder how God can love me enough to show up like that. But He does.
As Mary ponders every word that the Angel said, and finds Elizabeth who was barren, in her sixth month of pregnancy, her heart can do nothing more than burst forth.
For His mercy.
For His strong arm.
Mary says, “From now on all generations will call me blessed.” That word blessed is the future tense of the same word used throughout the Beatitudes.
She praises her Savior because He has seen her humble heart and chosen her to bear the Son of God. He has done great things and His mercy is for all those who fear Him.
When I remember Mary was most likely 12-14 years old and would face the persecution of others because of her pregnancy outside of marriage, I am amazed at her willingness to believe God for her future.
If we are honest, how difficult is it for us everyday to surrender to God’s ways rather than giving into our own. Mary was a special girl, chosen for a very special task. She is one person I will love to sit down with in Heaven, to ask her about her experience. I know she will have much to say about God’s faithfulness.
For More Information about the Magnificat
For further study of this portion you can find a sermon teaching online. This song or poem is one of four in the first and second chapters of Luke: Zacharias’, Elizabeth’s, Mary’s and Simeon’s. You can find more details on Wikipedia.
If you missed the previous portions of the Christmas Story you can find them here:
Come Let Us Adore Him!
He is Faithful,
Jeanne
Have you ever thought about Mary’s outburst of praise?