Luke 1:46b-55 (NRSV)
Read Luke 1:46b-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
We celebrate lots of different traditions this time of year — many of which have been passed down through generations. But the Magnificat that Mary sings in this well-known narrative from Luke is perhaps the most cherished by us churchy folk. Mary's song of thanksgiving and devotion celebrates everything that the gift of Jesus has done for humanity. It brought surprising reversals — lifting up the lowly, feeding the hungry, sending the rich away empty. Most importantly, the gift of Jesus has brought us closer to our God than we ever could have imagined. By bearing Godself in a servant named Mary, God served the world with great love and inspires us for the same service.
As you think about and plan for your holiday traditions this year, consider starting a new one — perhaps performing an act of service alongside your loved ones for the sake of someone in need. This is what it means to celebrate the true meaning of Christ(mas).
Prayer
Guide us in humble service this season and all our days. Not because we are obliged, but because you have made us able. Amen.