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
God chooses to do mighty things through people who often don't have much power in the world. Today's reading describes how surprised some of those people are to be chosen by God to do these mighty things. Mary is shocked that the God of the universe would choose her to do such an incredible thing. Mary's song is a mix of celebration, surprise, and wonder that God has chosen her to give birth to God's Son. This teenage girl is amazed that God can do such incredible things through the humblest of people.
How do we expect God to act today? And through whom? In the midst of our many challenges, today's Gospel reading reminds us to look for God's powerful acts to emerge from humble people who have faith. No matter your position in life, God can work through you to show God's love to the world.
Prayer
Thank you, God, for choosing to work through those who trust you. Help us to be open to whatever role you have for us to play in showing your love to the world. Amen.