Mary's Rejoicing

Luke 1:46-55

The Magnificat
And Mary said:
“My soul exalts the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave; For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed. For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name. and His mercy is upon generation after generation Toward those who fear Him. He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart. He has brought down rulers from their thrones, And has exalted those who were humble. He has filled the hungry with good things; And sent away the rich empty-handed. He has given help to Israel His servant, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and his descendants forever.” (NASB, Lockman Foundation)


This song of Mary reveals something of the Messianic ministry of Jesus. The words keep switching between words of prophecy and Mary’s personal praise to God. Verse 48 makes a reference to the Abrahamic covenant through which God promised that all generations will be blessed. And indeed that is fulfilled in Jesus. Verses 51-53 show that the Messiah’s coming was to be for the little man, not the rich and powerful. Verses 53-54 shows the Messiah’s concern would be for the hungry and needy, for it was for them that He came. And in verse 55 we once again see that Messiah was the fulfillment of the Abrahamic blessing.

Think about it, what would be your reaction to being chosen to a special calling like Mary. Mary was called to do something great. Prophecy had pointed to this event and her reaction was vital to God’s plan. But think harder, you are called to something similar to Mary’s calling. Mary fulfilled her part and so did her Son. But Jesus commissioned us to be Messiah to the people of our day. God has a plan for each of our lives. Our response makes all the difference to the working of God’s plan. Are we meeting the challenge? Are we standing up for Christ and showing His light and way to the dark generation in which we live?