Luke 1:46-55
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, even as he said to our fathers.”

This song is often called the “Magnificat,” the first word in the Latin translation of this passage. Mary’s song has often been used as the basis for choral music and hymns. Like Hannah, the mother of Samuel (1 Samuel 2:1-10), Mary glorified God in song for what He was going to do for the world through her. Notice that in both songs, God is pictured as a champion of the poor, the oppressed, and the despised.

Mary focused on God’s power, holiness, and mercy.
* 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.”

Her insight into God’s character formed the basis for her confidence in Him. Her words echo the Old Testament:
* For God as “the Mighty One,” see Genesis 49:24; Joshua 22:22; Psalm
50:1; 132:2, 5; Isaiah 1:24; 9:6; 49:26; 60:16; Zephaniah 3:17.
* For God as “holy,” see Leviticus 11:44; 19:2; 20:26; 21:8; Joshua 24:19; Psalm 89:18; 99:3; 111:9; Isaiah 5:16.
* For God doing many “great things” for Israel, see Deuteronomy 11:7; Judges 2:7; Job 37:5; Psalm 71:19; 126:2-3; Joel 2:20-21.                                            * For God’s “mercy,” see Exodus 33:19; 1 Chronicles 21:13; Psalm 25:6; 103:17; Isaiah 55:7; Micah 7:18.

What songs are you most likely to be caught singing in the shower?

Which church hymns are your favorites?

If you had the skill and opportunity, how would you tell the world about a life-changing experience; write a poem, sing a song, publish a novel, or make a movie?