Scripture

Luke 1:46-49

Mary responded,“Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed. For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me.”

Muse

Here we come to the bold words of Mary, a young woman chosen by the Almighty for an extraordinary purpose! As I meditate on this encounter, I find myself drawn into the depths of Mary's soul, where praise and rejoicing echo in response to the divine calling. A perfect display of how God ultimately chooses the humble and ordinary in executing His will.

Mary's soul magnifies the Lord, and her spirit exults in God, her Savior (Luke 1:46). In these verses, we see a God who “blesses those who are humble...” (Matthew 5:5). Pastor and author William R. Osborne states that “blessing always flows out of God’s benevolent creative design for his creatures and coincides with obedience to his will.” Mary's acknowledgment of being called “blessed by all generations” is an honest recognition of the holiness and greatness of God at work through her (v. 48). Mary made herself available for God’s purpose. We too must “humble ourselves under the mighty power of God,” and trust that “at the right time he will lift us up in honor.” (1 Peter 5:6). Let us not forget that God will exalt everyone who humbles themselves before Him, just as he demonstrated through Mary (Luke 18:14).

Reflecting on the scripture, I am challenged to consider God's attention to the seemingly insignificant. Mary's status as a lowly servant girl becomes the canvas on which the Almighty paints the masterpiece of redemption. Mary’s response reflects that God “chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to His plan” (Ephesians 1:11). Furthermore, just as Mary was used for an amazing purpose, God, too, has a plan for you and me. How are we responding as God calls to us? Are we fierce servants of ʾĒl ʿElyōn (the most high), confident, and willing to follow divine instruction (Jeremiah 17:7)? Or, are we hesitant, doubtful, and full of excuses? Are we walking forward with confidence in the one working in and through us or talking back to God with a doubting heart(Exodus 4:10)?

In the tapestry of salvation, God doesn't merely act in isolation; Psalm 104:31 illustrates that we serve a God who is involved and delights in His creation. Mary became a pivotal figure, not because God needed a volunteer, but because her obedience and willingness attracted God’s favoring hand—what a privilege. Over the next few moments, let’s think about the significance of Mary's role in the divine narrative. May we have eagerness to join this story, finding inspiration in Mary's humble response to God's call and the favor bestowed on her. In this season of anticipation, let us long to play our role in God’s narrative, understanding that we will never regret what we attempt for God, and that the humble truly will be exalted—like Mary has been for “generations.”

Our World

May this rhapsody, which reflects on Mary's profound response to God's call, uncover a truth that echoes through the ages—God notices, chooses, equips, and exalts the humble. Just as God deployed the angel Gabriel to minister to Mary, we are reminded that heavenly beings are actively involved in the affairs of humankind—another honor! God both provides for us and strengthens us to complete the work he began in us (Philippians 1:6). In our world today, we might bear an abundance of spiritual fruits if we fully embrace the truth of who God is and the high calling set on our lives. Consider the following questions alone or with your family/friends:

• The predictable nature of the Mighty One is to use and bless his willing, dependent children. How does this awareness comfort you? How does it influence your conduct and affect your interactions with others?
  
• Considering Mary's lowly and humble status as a servant girl, how can meekness shape your walk with the Lord? In what areas of your life are you proud, not humble?
  
• How do we become humble people? How do we avoid becoming falsely humble?
  

Prayer

Heavenly Father, my soul overflows with praise and gratitude for the significance you've bestowed on me. I rejoice in you for taking notice of me, a lowly soul in need of your grace. Your holiness and great works fill me with awe. Just as you noticed and blessed the lowly servant girl Mary, notice and bless my attempts at obedience. In this season of reflection and celebration, I cherish the love story between you and me, a narrative that spans generations and includes every willing, believing soul. Thank you for the promise of serving and nourishing me as I journey with You in faith and humility. As I navigate this holiday season, I hold onto the assurance we will be united in perfect communion one day—that is my true joy.

Amen.