Luke 1:39-56 Thursday, December 23, 2010
This passage of Scripture brings together the family dynamic that exists between Mary and Elizabeth. It also provides the initial relationship between John the Baptist and Jesus. The meeting of Mary and Elizabeth takes place about 80 to 100 miles from Nazareth in the hill country of Judea. It has been quite a journey for Mary who ‘hurried’ to be obedient to God. It is a sacred meeting.
The passage also contains the beautiful song that Mary sings. Formally the song is simply known as the Magnificat, a name that is generated from the Latin phrase that opens the hymn. “My soul magnifies the Lord.” It is a song that is used often in Christian liturgy as a reminder of our call to a life of faithful living.
It is also a scene that reflects a wonderful spirit of humility between these two women and their God. Humility is always a key component of spiritual growth. It has been true for centuries and is vital for our lives today. We tend to be caught up in the busy commercial pace of the Christmas season. Seldom do we take time to stop, remember what God has done, and then proclaim, “My soul magnifies the Lord.”
I wonder if you would take a moment right now. Simply read the passage again, take a moment to reflect in a posture of humility and silence, and then offer a prayer of thanksgiving to God. My soul magnifies the Lord. My spirit is thankful for the gift of grace. My life is fresh and alive because God is good and Jesus is Lord. Choose your own words, but offer your thanksgiving to God as a way of preparing your heart for tomorrow’s act of worship.
Be sure to join us for a beautiful candlelight worship service on Christmas Eve. 5:00, 7:00, 9:00 or 11:00...all with wonderful music and a message that is designed to encourage your spirit. Bring a friend!
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