Scripture - Mary’s Song of Praise (The “Magnificat”):

46 And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, 48 for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. 52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’ (Luke 1:46-55)

Reflection: 

These may be familiar words. Some may recall a lovely choral setting of The Magnificat. Many may find the words beautiful and comforting. But looking past the familiar cadence of the words, this piece of scripture is challenging and far from comfortable! Mary proclaims: He has scattered the proud; He has brought down the powerful; He has lifted up the lowly; He has sent the rich away empty.

Mary’s words challenge us not to be self-centred in the power that we hold; not to be thinking just of ourselves in the wealth that we have. Rather, that we should be supportive of others; we should be humble about what we have been blessed with. When we are fortunate to have so much, we should serve and help others by sharing the huge blessings that we enjoy.

May your spirit rejoice in God your Saviour as you serve him by serving and simply being with others this Christmas time.

Revd David