Focal Passage Luke 1:46-55
In today's lesson, we are taking a break from studying Paul's letter to the Christians of Thessalonica and focusing on the birth of our Lord. The background passage in Luke tells the story of Jesus' birth. Most of us know this story well. We have heard it for years and seen it portrayed in film, literature, and live nativity scenes. First, the announcement of the birth of Jesus is recorded. Then, the circumstances surrounding Christ's birth are provided. Then, the response to Jesus' birth is stated. I want to focus specifically on Mary's response to the announcement of her upcoming unexpected pregnancy recorded in Luke 1:46-55. These verses are actually a song and are referred to as the Magnificat of Mary. I like to think of them (listed below) as the first and best Christmas carol.
My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is His name.
His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with His arm;
He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as He said to our fathers.
First, she begins by praising God and rejoicing in the knowledge of her Savior. Certainly, as we celebrate Christmas, we should begin by recognizing what God has always known...we are born imperfect and our imperfections separate us from God. We are in need of a Savior and God provided one through the birth of His son, Jesus Christ! Mary rejoiced because of all that her faith in her Savior provided. She stated that He had been mindful of her humble state and that all generations will called her blessed. Likewise, He is mindful of our humble state when we accept Jesus as our Lord. We become His children at that moment and this blessing lasts forever!
Next she recognizes God's power, calling Him the Mighty one and declaring His holiness (read Isaiah 6:1-5 for Isaiah's response to being confronted with God's holiness). He is the creator. He is sovereign over His creation. He is perfect. There is no evil in Him. He is holy!
Mary understands that God has done great things for her. Likewise, He has done great things for us as well.
- He has been merciful to her.
- Throughout history and her life, He has done mighty deeds. She recognizes this fact and we need to recognize that God is still at work in our world today. God is not at a distance simply watching events unfold. He is active and acting in powerful ways on our behalf doing what is best for us.
- His nature is to treat people with justice based not on worldly standards (things that make us prideful, position of worldly authority, or financial prosperity) but solely on the righteousness obtained at the moment of our salvation. This is how He treated Mary and this is how He treats us as well
- Finally, God keeps His promises. The fact that He kept His promises to Abraham assures us that He will keep all of His promises to us as well..
As the next few days of preparation for Christmas day unfold, slow down and take a moment (or several moments) to rejoice in the Lord, your savior! Write your song of praise for all that God has done for you!
Posts
