Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Devotional 12-14-21

 Luke 1:46-55


Mary’s Song

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.”

It is hard to imagine how Mary must have felt when she was chosen by God to become the mother of our Messiah. I imagine that – at least, in the beginning – she must have been a little fearful, startled, and confused. She was an unwed Jewish girl, and she could have been shamed and disgraced by society in this situation. But Mary’s Song, recorded in the verses above, shows the strong and steadfast woman. Any fears she had initially were replaced with hope, awe, and comfort. Her song delivered a message of hope and deliverance to a world that desperately needed it.

Our world in the present day desperately needs that hope, too. COVID times have not been easy for any of us. Many have lost loved ones, job security, relationships, routines, and their sense of peace – myself included. It is easy to look around and feel depressed, fearful, and fatigued. Instead of focusing on those racing, negative thoughts this Advent Season, we should strive to instead remember the promises that God has made and how much He loves us. As we hear Mary’s song, may our hearts fill with a renewed sense of hope, comfort, and peace.

Lia Deane

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