Day 24

Day 24
Tuesday, December 21

“And Mary said:
‘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,
just as he promised our ancestors.’”

Luke 1:46-55

Reflection
Have you ever felt so much joy that your burst into song? After learning she would give birth to Jesus, Mary drops everything to share the news wit her cousin Elizabeth, and in a scene that seems straight out of a Broadway musical, Mary bursts into a song that would later become known as the Magnificat. The Magnificat is still recited in churches around the world today, especially during Advent, as Christians join in Mary’s beautiful, poetic praise of God.

Unless you’re a particularly musical person, most of us are self-conscious about singing, especially in public. Luke’s account doesn’t tell us how Mary sounded, but given the passion of her words, I be you she belted them out loudly and clearly. So, the next time you find yourself singing during worship, don’t just mindlessly mumble the words as you try to stay in tune. Offer up your praise to God in a manner that reflects God’s greatness.

Prayer
God, we love you and are thankful for all that you have done for us. Too often we are more concerned with how we sound to others than we are with lifting up our praise. Give us the courage and conviction to sing your praises loudly, clearly, and with passion, so that all around us may hear of your love, faithfulness, and mercy. Amend.


Reflection by Amy Sanders