Focus

Slow your breathing and become aware of the taking in and letting out of your breath. Focus on putting things aside so you will be open to what God is saying to you today.

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Read

Luke 1:46-55 (NRSV)

And Mary said,

“My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

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Reflect

Hearing the strong gusto in Mary’s song makes me wonder how anyone can think of Mary as quiet, meek, and acquiescent, which is how she is often depicted. Seldom do we consider the great strength and bravery she exhibited.

Before singing her now-famous song of praise to God, Mary had journeyed over rough and dangerous terrain to visit her cousin Elizabeth, who was also pregnant. If Mary had been timid beforehand, perhaps Elizabeth’s powerful declaration bolstered her confidence. Two women of God encouraged the  other’s strength and faith!

Mary responded to Elizabeth’s declaration with the passionate words in today’s scripture. Her perspective was both personal and national: God showed up! God has been and continues to be faithful! God has lifted the lowly and filled the hungry! God remembered Israel! God’s promises to Abraham were real! The promises were waiting to be born to us. Hallelujah! Amen!

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Pray

Thank you, God-with-us, for whom nothing is too hard! You have given us power to witness about your mercy! Give us courage to be led by the Holy Spirit and to encourage others. Amen.

Go with God.