Luke 1:46-56
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Take a moment to settle into your surroundings and then begin to recognize your breath. As you breathe in, call on the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Today’s passage is a hymn of praise that bursts out of Mary after Elizabeth’s Holy Spirit inspired confirmation. Think back over the story of Gabriel’s announcement and Mary’s faith-filled response in Luke 1:26-38. Then read Luke 1:46-56 noticing anything that stands out.
When the Angel Gabriel in all his frightening splendor announced that Mary had been chosen from among all women to be the mother of the Savior, Mary responded with quiet openness. But now as Elizabeth prophecies over her, Mary can fully experience the excitement of her calling. In response to Elizabeth’s declaration, Mary bursts forth into a hymn of praise to God.
It is a powerful thing to have someone believe in you and speak words of confirmation and encouragement over you.
Stop to consider who you have in your life who sees your potential and encourages you to become all God is calling you to be. If you can’t think of anyone, consider asking Jesus to provide you with such a friend.
Now take a moment to reflect on how you are seeking to encourage others toward God’s calling. Talk openly with Jesus about this.
Read Luke 1:46-56 again noticing the progression of thought throughout Mary’s hymn of praise.
Mary begins by focusing on what God has done for her - God individualized her and chose her, and she fully recognizes the incredible blessing of being God’s instrument. But Mary also knows the Scriptures and the promises of God to God’s people. Her focus moves quickly from God’s work in her own life to God’s work in the world. Mary sings of the God who humbles the proud and exalts the humble, and she sings of the God who remembers the promises made to God’s people.
God’s work in our lives is never just for our own benefit. When God speaks to us, heals us, transforms us, it is also for the benefit of the world.
Stop to think about this for a while. Consider how the work of God in your own life is spilling out of you for the benefit of others. Share your thoughts openly with Jesus about this, and then get quiet and listen.
What might Jesus be saying to you through Mary’s outpouring of praise?
What will you do in response?
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