“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me — holy is his name.” (Luke 1:46-49 NIV)
In this passage Luke records Mary’s tremendous praise chorus. She places the emphasis squarely where it should always be — on the Lord. Oh, that people everywhere would glorify the Lord! If we would authentically rejoice in God and his salvation, do you think it might transform our homes, churches, and communities?
Some might wonder what we have to rejoice about. Yes, each of us is a miracle. Yes, we are bundles of raw material full of tremendous potential. And despite our ages, life still holds numerous promises to be fulfilled. Yet, if we consider ourselves in relation to God, we are small and weak and powerless, but He has carefully considered our humble state in dealing with us. That fact alone is reason enough to praise his name and rejoice in his grace.
We are privileged to have God consider us. Note that Mary’s understanding of her favored and blessed status did not produce arrogance, conceit, or pride; rather it produced humility and worship. She humbly realized that what God was doing with her would be understood by future generations and they would call her “Blessed,” standing in awe of God’s work. If we would humbly consider ourselves to be servants of the Lord, would such an attitude make a difference in our communities, churches, and homes? If we would simply let others call us blessed, would it make a difference? If we realized that future generations will be impacted by God’s work in us, would it make a difference?
Consider for a moment that “the Mighty One” — the Almighty One — is at work in us and for us. Neither of us is mighty, much less almighty. And without that baby born to Mary in that humble little stable back in first century Bethlehem, we would all be lost for all eternity. Yet, the Mighty One came to us there and continues with us in our humble state, doing great things in us and for us. No wonder Mary could sing: “My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”
Christmas . . . a time to glorify the Lord. Christmas . . . a time to rejoice in God and his salvation. Christmas . . . a time to worship God because “His name is holy.”
Dear Father, thank you for thinking of us in our humble state. Grant that we may both worship Christ and share his miracle of grace with others. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today in the Mighty One whose name is holy,