Luke 1:46-55 (NRSV)
Read Luke 1:46-55 on biblegateway.com
Verse 46And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, Verse 47and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, Verse 48for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; Verse 49for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. Verse 50His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. Verse 51He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. Verse 52He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; Verse 53he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. Verse 54He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, Verse 55according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever."
Devotion
This Sunday many congregations will reflect on the witness of Mary, the Mother of our Lord. There is much we can learn from her story. Her call to be mother to Jesus is unique, but we are all called to similar work.
Mary’s life was disrupted and she was asked to risk being an unwed mother to share God’s Living Word, Jesus, with the world. She was called to offer her life as a dwelling place for God, so that God could be made known in a very “down to earth" way. She was called to nurture God’s life within her.
Responding to God’s call often disrupts our lives. It requires risk and courage, hospitality and nurture. It is daunting work. At times, like Mary at first, we may feel perplexed and frightened, but God’s word for Mary is true for us as well: “The Lord is with you…do not be afraid.”
Prayer
Gracious God, you provided Mary with all that she needed to faithfully respond to your call. Grant us grace to offer our lives to you that your Word would be known in all the world. Amen.